Real People Profile Wordles by David Hoffman

Here is years of collected UMBC wisdom in the form of previously published Real People Profiles, smashed to bits and reproduced in Wordle form.

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus? 


Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?


Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?

Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"


Q: Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?

UPDATE: I decided I wanted a version of the "most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC" question, but with the word "UMBC" restored (I had eliminated it since it's part of the question), the word "thing/things" cut out, and the dimensions adjusted. Here it is--my favorite of them all:

Co-Create UMBC is a blog for and about UMBC, written by David Hoffman and Craig Berger from the Office of Student Life. Join the Co-Create UMBC group on MyUMBC. Like Co-Create UMBC on Facebook. And follow David and Craig on Twitter.  ]]> by David Hoffman Here is years of collected UMBC wisdom in the form of previously published Real People Profiles, smashed to bits and reproduced in Wordle form. Q: In 12 words or less, what... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2013/02/real-people-profile-wordles.html https://dev.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/24806/guest@my.umbc.edu/67217a86a474a38c5f2813e93c6a4e8e/api/pixel Co-Create UMBC https://dev.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 57 6 true Tue, 26 Feb 2013 19:39:00 -0500 Tue, 26 Feb 2013 19:39:00 -0500 World in Motion by Craig Berger and David Hoffman

 When we were in college, things were different. Craig graduated 7 years ago; David, 25 years ago. Each of us lived then in a world that was our only normal. Intellectually, we knew things would change; but at some deep emotional level, we took for granted that they would be the same forever, and that only we would change.

 In the world Craig took for granted 7 years ago,
In the world David took for granted 25 years ago,
Your world, which may seem pretty stable (aside from increasingly impressive video graphics and iPhones), is changing too--even faster. Can you envision the worlds you'll be in before too long: the world of 7 years from now, and the world of 25 years from now?

 Co-Create UMBC is a blog for and about UMBC, written by David Hoffman and Craig Berger from the Office of Student Life. Join the Co-Create UMBC group on MyUMBC. Like Co-Create UMBC on Facebook. And follow David and Craig on Twitter.  ]]> by Craig Berger and David Hoffman When we were in college, things were different. Craig graduated 7 years ago; David, 25 years ago. Each of us lived then in a world that was our only normal.... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2013/02/world-in-motion.html https://dev.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/24700/guest@my.umbc.edu/af0c9717933d5b68bbb5f9b9078ba9f4/api/pixel Co-Create UMBC https://dev.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 19 0 true Mon, 25 Feb 2013 17:46:00 -0500 Real People Profiles: Michael "Mikey" Collins, Jr. We're asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are their responses.
Name: Michael "Mikey" Collins, Jr.

Hometown: Pasadena, Maryland

Q: How long have you been at UMBC?

A: This is my second year at UMBC.

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: I am the Assistant Director for the SGA's Office of Community and Government Affairs.  I am also the treasurer and co-captain of UMBC's mock trial team.

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus? 

A: I'm a leader, Sondheim scholar, student, and an agent of civic engagement!

Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?

A:  Working with our staff to encourage civic engagement is, by far, my favorite part of working with SGA.  This past election season was a great experience. We registered voters, distributed information about the candidates and referendum questions, and hosted Election Night Extravaganza in the commons.  Throughout the election season, we had an great turn-out at our events.  It's incredibly rewarding to see that students cared about political issues affecting UMBC and the surrounding communities.

Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?

A: Get involved!  Applying to work with UMBC's SGA has allowed me meet some of my best friends and to learn a great deal about how our university actually operates.  At the beginning of my UMBC career, I had no idea that I would meet such great people and work on these fantastic projects.

Also, deciding to join the UMBC mock trial team was another great step.  Once again, choosing to be involved on campus introduced me to a whole new group of friends and has helped me to expand my interests.  Without taking that first step to get involved, none of this would have been possible for me.

Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"

A: Dedication and positive thinking!

Q: Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?

A: Not many people know that UMBC has a mock trial team.  The team was recently re-founded in 2011 after a long absence and we are now a fully competing team.  Already, we are in the same tournaments as Penn State, Duke, Columbia, and several other great schools.  So far, we have traveled around the region to colleges such as Georgetown, American, Carnegie Mellon, UMD Law School, and Patrick Henry.  We are growing slowly, but in the coming years, it would be great to see more people on the team and keeping up with our season.  Anyone can join! 


BONUS VIDEO QUESTION: What else would you like to share? Ask yourself a question and answer it.


Co-Create UMBC is a blog for and about UMBC, written by David Hoffman and Craig Berger from the Office of Student Life. Join the Co-Create UMBC group on MyUMBC. Like Co-Create UMBC on Facebook. And follow David and Craig on Twitter. 
]]> We're asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2013/02/real-people-profiles-michael-mikey.html https://dev.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/24646/guest@my.umbc.edu/984e6c19edeeec5f51c4daac6837bac3/api/pixel Co-Create UMBC https://dev.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 53 7 true Mon, 25 Feb 2013 09:53:00 -0500 Mon, 25 Feb 2013 09:53:00 -0500 Run for SGA 2013-2014: Application Open Now by Craig Berger

 It's hard to believe, but it's that time of year again: in less than one month from today, the UMBC Student Government Association's (SGA's) Election Board will have collected a list of names who made the decision to run for office in UMBC's nationally-recognized SGA. I'm hoping your name will be on that list.

 Each spring (in 2013, Monday, April 22--Wednesday, April 24), the undergraduate student body at UMBC elects students to 20 positions.  You choose 11 Senators, 5 Finance Board Representatives, a Vice President for Student Organizations, a Treasurer, an Executive Vice President, and a President.  Each of these positions within SGA presents a terrific opportunity to make a difference on campus and beyond.  Please know that no experience is mandatory to apply for a position--participants receive training and guidance as they identify campus problems, bring members of our campus community together, and improve the quality of life of all UMBC undergraduates.

Starting now, the Election Board is launching its website – http://electsga2013.wordpress.com -- to provide you with as much information as possible on the process of running for a position within SGA. In order to run for SGA office, you must complete a candidate application with some basic information about who you are and why you want to run.  All applications will be due before Spring Break, on Friday, March 15th at 5:00 p.m.  After Spring Break, all eligible candidates will receive more information via e-mail regarding next steps, including campaigning. In addition to containing a candidate application, the site has information about the structure of SGA, available positions, eligibility requirements, and more.  The Election Board plans to update the site with posts about information sessions, deadlines, and other resources.

 I first ran for a student government position in 4th Grade and have always been associated with it, no matter where I have been in my educational journey.  What I like about UMBC's SGA is its unique emphasis on using community members' gifts, energy, and relationships to create a platform for both amazing, community-changing successes and useful failures.  It takes courage to make yourself vulnerable and to put your name and ideas in front of your peers, but I see so many students who take that risk and never look back, discovering a passion or finding a friendship they never knew existed. At the very least, SGA will make you see and think about things differently.

 So check out the application, and if you have questions, contact me at berger@umbc.edu.  I’ve been advising UMBC’s SGA for a year and a half, and each day I become more and more inspired by all that committed, courageous students can learn and accomplish together.
Co-Create UMBC is a blog for and about UMBC, written by David Hoffman and Craig Berger from the Office of Student Life. Join the Co-Create UMBC group on MyUMBC. Like Co-Create UMBC on Facebook. And follow David and Craig on Twitter.

 ]]> by Craig Berger It's hard to believe, but it's that time of year again: in less than one month from today, the UMBC Student Government Association's (SGA's) Election Board will have collected a... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2013/02/run-for-sga-2013-2014-application-open.html https://dev.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/24614/guest@my.umbc.edu/d4f4210dd238e61b785c875f43078dd6/api/pixel sga-election Co-Create UMBC https://dev.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 60 2 true Sun, 24 Feb 2013 20:14:00 -0500 Real People Profiles: Atib Siddiqui We're asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are their responses.
Name: Atib Siddiqui

Hometown: Columbia, Maryland

Q: How long have you been at UMBC?

A: Spring of Sophomore year.

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: Currently, I am a staff member of the SGA's Office of Community and Governmental Affairs (OCGA), a participant in the Rebuilding Manhood group, and a STRiVEr. 

 Finally, just as a sneak peek, you should expect to see my name floating around throughout the semester for various reasons.

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus? 

A: I play the role of helping others enjoy the wonderful UMBC campus.

Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?

A: I mostly enjoy just being sociable with people, and helping them see that UMBC is a very sociable, friendly environment, and that the campus is full of people who are willing to make the effort.

 Interacting with different students and faculty outside of classroom settings gives you a chance to really get a feel for them, and their life. It is also the quickest way to meaningful friendships, which enhance your UMBC experience.

Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?

A: The most important thing I have learned from UMBC was a direct result of STRiVE, the UMBC winter leadership retreat.

 All of the lessons I have learned from it directly impacted how I viewed UMBC, and the general culture of it. It just makes you appreciate everything about your college even more, and gives you a greater sense of calling UMBC your own.

 I guess the main point I'm trying to make here is to embrace UMBC as your own, and just grow with it, and the people that attend it. Your college experience should be meaningful, and only you have the ability to make it count. ""The ball is in your court; are you going to shoot it, or pass it off."

 As a wise person once told me, "It's not about what you do in life, It's about how people remember what you did," so make your mark on your campus. UMBC is yours, just as much as it is mine.

Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"

A: Acoustic music, and especially acoustic covers. Acoustic music is much more intimate to the ears for me, and also showcases the voice of the artist, and the outburst of emotion comes off stronger from the song with an acoustic vibe. 

Q: Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?

A: It's not that I don't have any UMBC stories, I just have way too many. From awkward encounters, to jaw dropping funny experiences, it wouldn't be fair to single out only one story. Just know that every potential moment with me can end up into a story.

 Some of my favorite spots on campus are the Fireside Lounge during a wintery night, the grass in Patapsco courtyard during the spring/summer, and of course, the pond ledge near the Financial Aid Office is amazing in the spring time.
BONUS VIDEO QUESTION: What else would you like to share? Ask yourself a question and answer it.




Co-Create UMBC is a blog for and about UMBC, written by David Hoffman and Craig Berger from the Office of Student Life. Join the Co-Create UMBC group on MyUMBC. Like Co-Create UMBC on Facebook. And follow David and Craig on Twitter. 
]]> We're asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2013/02/real-people-profiles-atib-siddiqui.html https://dev.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/24428/guest@my.umbc.edu/1a0e65bc6decabab43a5b7783e73007d/api/pixel real-people-profiles Co-Create UMBC https://dev.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 60 10 true Thu, 21 Feb 2013 09:07:00 -0500 Thu, 21 Feb 2013 09:07:00 -0500 Real People Profiles: Virginia Byrne We're asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are their responses.
Name: Virginia Byrne
Hometown: Franklin, TN
Q: How long have you been at UMBC?

A: Since Summer 2012

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: Coordinator for Leadership Development and Education in the Office of Student Life.

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus? 

A:  Supporting self-discovery, community responsibility, and general world-changing for all of UMBC!

Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?

A: I love the conversations, ideas and visions that come from people willing to commit to the great person they can be tomorrow. I believe leadership development inspires courage - courage to be unique, to take action and to make a difference. 


Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?

A: To live where my feet are right now and to stop over-planning and scheduling my time but instead to learn to play life like basketball - with fast reflexes on the balls of my feet. STRiVE taught me that.

Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"

A: Saturday Night Live (all seasons, always).

Q: Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?

:  I got my Bachelors at the University of Illinois of Urbana-Champaign where I first met Pres Freeman Hrabowski III ---- because his photo hung in the alumni hall near my Student Life office. Maybe he was whispering to me to find my way to UMBC??

 BONUS VIDEO QUESTION: What else would you like to share? Ask yourself a question and answer it.

Co-Create UMBC is a blog for and about UMBC, written by David Hoffman and Craig Berger from the Office of Student Life. Join the Co-Create UMBC group on MyUMBC. Like Co-Create UMBC on Facebook. And follow David and Craig on Twitter. 
]]> We're asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2013/02/real-people-profiles-virginia-byrne.html https://dev.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/24266/guest@my.umbc.edu/29a794b70f368404435d28128061f83f/api/pixel real-people-profiles Co-Create UMBC https://dev.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 81 11 true Tue, 19 Feb 2013 09:02:00 -0500 Tue, 19 Feb 2013 09:02:00 -0500 Sometimes Taking a Survey = Making a Difference by David Hoffman
There are many ways to make a difference at UMBC, especially if you are interested in shaping or changing campus life. Most of them involve hard work, planning and determination. But once in a while students have an opportunity to influence the future of campus life simply by offering their opinions. Next week, some lucky freshman and seniors have that chance, because they will be invited at random by email to participate in the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE).

NSSE is an annual survey administered by UMBC and other colleges and universities across the United States. UMBC's Office of Institutional Research explains that NSSE "gauges the extent to which colleges are providing experiences associated with a quality undergraduate education and the extent to which students are engaging in those educationally meaningful activities." Campus leaders have used the survey results to inform decisions about changes to programs and the curriculum. The Office of Institutional Research says that among the UMBC offerings that have been created in part based on students' responses to NSSE are first-year seminars, living-learning communities, Introduction to an Honors University courses, the new student book experience and the faculty mentor program. So if you are one of the lucky invitees, please take the survey. 

Co-Create UMBC is a blog for and about UMBC, written by David Hoffman and Craig Berger from the Office of Student Life. Join the Co-Create UMBC group on MyUMBC. Like Co-Create UMBC on Facebook. And follow David and Craig on Twitter. 
]]> by David Hoffman There are many ways to make a difference at UMBC, especially if you are interested in shaping or changing campus life. Most of them involve hard work, planning and... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2013/02/sometimes-taking-survey-making.html https://dev.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/24222/guest@my.umbc.edu/70fd915890f16cc88a39f2c1867f1c1f/api/pixel civic-engagement Co-Create UMBC https://dev.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 13 0 true Mon, 18 Feb 2013 11:12:00 -0500 Real People Profiles: Sayre Posey We're asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are their responses.
Name: Sayre Posey
Hometown: Myersville, MD

 Major: Social Work Major & Religious Studies minor
Q: How long have you been at UMBC?

A: This is my second semester at UMBC (I'm a freshman!)

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: Right now, I'm a Staff Writer for The Retriever Weekly, a blogger for USDemocrazy.net, a staff member of the SGA Office of Community and Government Affairs, a student representative on the Neighbor Relations Committee, a STRiVEr, a volunteer for the Choice Program's Educational Team through The Shriver Center, a member of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, a research assistant in Dr. Kenneth Maton's psychology lab, and a student assistant in the Office of the President. I'm also a Sondheim Public Affairs Scholar and a member of the Honors College.

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus? 

A:  Student, writer, Sondheim, volunteer, friend. And I love saying hi to people!

Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?

A: It's so easy to get involved on campus through different service and civic engagement efforts. Whether writing for TRW, participating in service learning through my Sondheim classes, or working with SGA to develop campus change initiatives, I love being active in different aspects of campus life. I never feel like I'm just a student attending a university. UMBC is my home.

Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?

A: This school is made up of the most creative, wise, fun, intelligent, passionate, and kind people I have ever met. I say that with complete honesty. The dozens of people I've met in the past semester have shaped and molded me into someone quite different from the person I was on move-in day. Each individual's life is sacred, and new friendships provide the deepest of connections. So what's the most important thing I've learned at UMBC? People are amazing, so make friends and keep them. They can stay with you for a lifetime.

Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"

A: Hot tea, folk music, and Birkenstock sandals.

Q: Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?

A:  There's a little hill facing the West Hill Apartments that became my favorite spot on campus last semester. I've grown up with a love for the outdoors, and it's a peaceful spot that my friends and I go to sometimes. We just sit and talk and take a break from school stuff. I can't ever stress the importance of finding serenity at school, away from the busy-ness of writing papers and reading data and answering problems. Even though I can't really see the stars at night at UMBC like I can in the mountains back home, it's so relaxing just to look up at the night sky and breathe.

 Also, fun fact: It's actually possible for your Red Card to rip in half.
Co-Create UMBC is a blog for and about UMBC, written by David Hoffman and Craig Berger from the Office of Student Life. Join the Co-Create UMBC group on MyUMBC. Like Co-Create UMBC on Facebook. And follow David and Craig on Twitter. 
]]> We're asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2013/02/real-people-profiles-sayre-posey.html https://dev.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/24185/guest@my.umbc.edu/1a8fc20e1665bb2e9601e12342872c75/api/pixel Co-Create UMBC https://dev.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 97 13 true Sun, 17 Feb 2013 20:14:00 -0500 Real People Profiles: Natalie Scimonelli We're asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are their responses.
Name: Natalie Scimonelli
Hometown: Columbia, MD

 Major: Psychology major, music minor

Q: How long have you been at UMBC?

A: This is my 8th and final semester at UMBC!

Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?

A: I am a desk staffer in the apartments, but I also work off campus as an assistant director at Drama Learning Center.

Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus? 

A:  I bring positive positive energy and a love of music for all!

Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?

A: I love that UMBC is filled with so many connections. I have recently met so many wonderful and talented people who are helping me with a big journey I am embarking on!!! So many people take for granted the opportunities that UMBC holds, (including myself sometimes) and I love that being a part of reslife and a STRiVE attendee, I have met so many awesome people and created some amazing, lifelong friendships too.

Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?

A: The most important thing I have learned in my time here at college is that life is unpredictable, and the best way to handle that is to have a positive attitude. I have achieved a lot more than I ever imagined with that motto.

Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"

A: Life. It's a roller coaster, but most of the time it's really amazing. Oh, and singing =]

Q: Do you have any UMBC stories, little-known facts about UMBC, favorite spots on campus, or anything else you’d like to share?

A:  I just want to say that if you are a UMBC student, you should attend STRiVE. Not everyone gets to go, but it is honestly the most amazing experience that UMBC offers for leadership. Last January I attended, and it has officially become my favorite UMBC experience thus far.
BONUS: If you feel so inclined.... go to https://www.facebook.com/Nat.lee91 to find out more about this journey I am embarking on!


Co-Create UMBC is a blog for and about UMBC, written by David Hoffman and Craig Berger from the Office of Student Life. Join the Co-Create UMBC group on MyUMBC. Like Co-Create UMBC on Facebook. And follow David and Craig on Twitter. 
]]> We're asking some of the people you might encounter on the UMBC campus, including students, faculty, staff and alumni, to answer a few questions about themselves and their experiences. These are... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2013/02/real-people-profiles-natalie-scimonelli.html https://dev.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/23897/guest@my.umbc.edu/73fe751b93d48e474f6586cf4d565d27/api/pixel Co-Create UMBC https://dev.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 77 11 true Thu, 14 Feb 2013 11:20:00 -0500 Thu, 14 Feb 2013 11:20:00 -0500 So, Maybe by David Hoffman

So, maybe you're one of the lucky ones whose hopes for themselves align perfectly with a specific career path. But maybe you're more like I was, once: a lot on your plate, decisions to make, your whole future seemingly at stake, and graduation already on the horizon. And maybe, to you, the so-called real world of graduate degrees and careers is as vague and remote as a continent you've never visited, or a decade in which you've never lived.

And maybe you don’t sense in yourself the interest or capacity to devote yourself to anything in particular, day after day after day, but you feel considerable pressure to just know. That little voice of doubt in your head may be saying: If you had a calling, wouldn't you be hearing it by now?

And maybe your anxiety is compounded by people projecting their hopes and beliefs onto you, so that their certainty is like a dinner ordered for you while you’re still looking for a place to hang your coat. It's frustrating, but you don’t want to appear ungrateful or irresponsible. Maybe you believe, or hope, that your tastes might change once you’ve stomached enough.

But maybe …

Maybe you are stronger and wiser than you think. Maybe for you, the very uncertainty that troubles you is an achievement, a refusal to succumb. The hardest thing in the world to know is your own heart when others have designs on it. Yet you insist on pushing to discover the path to your best self, your best contributions.

And maybe there are worlds behind the broad career categories: opportunities to carve out a niche wide enough for your hopes, if only you first gain a foothold. Maybe finding your starting point will require some casting about in the dark; some trial and some error, and patience.

It certainly did for me. I was a lawyer and then a community organizer before discovering how I could act on my passion and deepest sense of purpose in a profession, within a supportive (campus) community.

There are resources for you on campus: the Career Services Center, located in Math/Psych 212, can help you think about careers and connect you with opportunities; and The Shriver Center, on the first floor of Public Policy, can connect you with internships so you can explore. Pay them a visit. And know that you're not alone.

If this post has resonated with you, I hope you'll make this struggle more visible, and connect with others, by leaving a comment.

Co-Create UMBC is a blog for and about UMBC, written by David Hoffman and Craig Berger from the Office of Student Life. Join the Co-Create UMBC group on MyUMBC. Like Co-Create UMBC on Facebook. And follow David and Craig on Twitter.  ]]> by David Hoffman So, maybe you're one of the lucky ones whose hopes for themselves align perfectly with a specific career path. But maybe you're more like I was, once: a lot on your plate,... http://cocreateumbc.blogspot.com/2013/02/so-maybe.html https://dev.my.umbc.edu/api/v0/pixel/news/23799/guest@my.umbc.edu/c689f8fd38d3b7c6ae36f3c054278c1a/api/pixel Co-Create UMBC https://dev.my.umbc.edu/groups/co-create https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/original.jpg?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xlarge.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/large.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/medium.png?1499890363 https://assets2-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/small.png?1499890363 https://assets4-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xsmall.png?1499890363 https://assets1-dev.my.umbc.edu/system/shared/avatars/groups/000/000/002/5b8f025dafb56cb8d3088b7259aadcfb/xxsmall.png?1499890363 Co-Create UMBC 78 9 true Tue, 12 Feb 2013 20:15:00 -0500 Tue, 12 Feb 2013 20:15:00 -0500