Student Profile
Kimberly
- Class: Junior
- Major: Social Work
- Gender: F
- High School: Northern Sr. High School
- Transfer Student: Y
Big Picture
I was worried that UMBC would be too large. There are a couple of lecture hall style classes but I must admit that the professors want to see you. Even in the largest of my classes last year the professor made it no secret that he was available...to go over tests, help line up tutors if necessary and even serve as a stand in advisor on the subject or not. What I love about the campus is that for one I am not the only commuter. UMBC is an active campus and one would benefit from living on campus and being able to enjoy it full time however, UMBC still reaches out to commuters with often weekly activities. Additionally, there is this great vibe within the student body that makes you enjoy coming to class. I have never been to a campus that has been more postive and enthusiastic. People are truly motivated and still have a good time. There has been a great many times that I have stayed in a class and talked for an hour or so about the course or current politics. A car is a definite necessity and finding a parking spot can be a universal problem past a certain hour. But in general I can honestly say I could not be happier with my decision to transfer to UMBC. I love the faculty who respects the student. I love the campus that is beautiful and can give you quite the work out with all of those darn steps. I love my major and the great use of technology throughout every course and the availability to students.
Academic Life
I have had a successful semester but I was challenged. There were a good amount of projects and papers with clear expectations from my professors. While I was challenged, I rarely felt frustrated. Even in a class I struggled in (dreaded science) that I felt for a survey class was pretty intense I still proved successful. Luckily, I had an hour or so every day between classes to study or work on upcoming assignments and it was put to good use. Few people I think would be able to get away with not doing the readings, and applying themselves. Class participation is a must. Even in my largest class with over a hundred students the individual student could be and was encouraged to be heard. The requirements for graduation are straight forward and the ability to utilize advisors that really are invested in the success of their advisees is a plus. The great thing about my advisor for one thing is that not only was she able to give advice on what classes I need but also the availability of some courses so I can plan ahead. She even helped me to change my minor so that I could meet my personal goal of graduating on time while working. In my major my education is to build a competent social work generalist, but it is also to ground me in enough theory and history in the profession so that I can understand my place in the work and my responsibility to affect change. It's aimed at yes, making sure I have the tools to break into the profession and grow within but there is also opportunity to explore the various issues and perhaps even research topics for personal etification and perhaps even publication.
Student Body
UMBC is an open campus with room for expression from every demographic. With that there is an outlet, it seems, for every taste, lifestyle, religious practice, etc.
The Best Things
It is a true campus rich with thought and opportunity to explore academic areas
The Worst Things
The traffic to fight to get there
