UMBC students say they value the university’s strong sense of community, supportive environment and active student life. Their experiences show that the university offers opportunities to feel connected both academically and socially.

Students describe UMBC as a friendly and welcoming place with a wide range of spaces, activities and support services.

A Small and Connected Community

One student said that the UMBC community feels small enough for students to stay connected with their classmates. This creates more opportunities to recognise people, build relationships and feel part of the university community.

Other students also highlighted how supportive people are across different departments.

Support for Students

UMBC students say that faculty and staff genuinely care about students. This sense of support appears to be an important part of the student experience.

One international student explained that CGE supports them academically. They had previously completed their undergraduate studies at UMBC, studied elsewhere for their master’s degree and later returned because of how supportive the university community felt.

The Commons as a Favourite Campus Space

Many students mentioned The Commons as one of their favourite places on campus. It is a social space where students can meet friends, eat and spend time between classes. Students said they often run into people they know there and enjoy the variety of places to sit and socialise.

The Commons also includes:

•⁠  ⁠Chick-fil-A

•⁠  ⁠Starbucks

•⁠  ⁠Different food options

•⁠  ⁠Social seating areas

Places to Study and Relax

Students use a variety of campus spaces for both studying and relaxing. The Off-Campus Student Services Lounge was mentioned as one place where students can study, eat and spend time.

One student said they use the microwave there for meals while studying. Another student highlighted the university library, especially appreciating its open-stack system and access to books.

Outdoor Spaces and Sport

Erickson Fields was another favourite location mentioned by students. Students described it as a space that offers activities and enjoyment throughout the year.

Sport is also part of student life at UMBC. Students mentioned participating in:

•⁠  ⁠Tennis

•⁠  ⁠Badminton

•⁠  ⁠Basketball games

•⁠  ⁠Other sporting events

Student Clubs and Events

UMBC students can become involved in a wide range of clubs and campus organisations. One student spoke about participating in the Student Events Board and helping to organise different events.

They said this gave them the opportunity to work with a diverse group of students across campus.

Others mentioned dance, student activities and creative clubs as important parts of their university experience.

Musical Theatre and Creative Activities

Creative opportunities are also part of student life at UMBC. One student said they were actively involved in the Musical Theatre Club and were working on a production of Heathers: The Musical.

Another student said they enjoyed dancing in classrooms and attending sports events with friends.

Student Life at UMBC

Student experiences suggest that UMBC offers much more than academic study alone. Community support, social spaces, sports, clubs and campus events all contribute to the overall university experience.

Being part of the Retriever community gives students opportunities to connect with others, try new activities and build a wider university experience.

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