Before you know it, your undergraduate education will come to an end. You’re probably excited to say good-bye to papers, lab reports, and exams (unless you plan to attend graduate school)!
Lifelong learning can come in a variety of forms, including, but not limited to: meeting and engaging with new people, traveling, community involvement, reading and keeping up to speed on current events, pursuing career opportunities, certificate programs, and picking up new hobbies! Learning does not have to end when you graduate; your educational journey could just be getting started.
Below are a few tips/resources to becoming a lifelong learner:
UMBC Graduate School: If you plan on pursing an advanced degree, look no further! This fall, UMBC is awarding returning retrievers with a $1,000 scholarship! Visit the Graduate School web site to learn more about our exciting program offerings!
UMBC Division of Professional Studies: Already have a job lined up but still interested in continuing your education? UMBC's Division of Professional Studies has courses, certificates and programs, designed to fit the busy schedule of the working professional. Visit our Open Houses at our Main Campus or Shady Grove next month!
UMBC Training Centers: If you are looking to gain a new skill and need flexible and affordable options, you may want to visit our Training Centers. High quality, flexible professional education and training opportunities are available year-round! Some courses are open to all individuals (no application needed)!
Remain active: Clubs/organizations are available outside of college! A simple Google search will direct you to a variety of local activities where you can participate, take lessons from aerobics, to sports, to even learning a new language! Meetup.com is an excellent resource for connecting with people who share similar interests!
Build your brand: Our Career Center is not just for current students! Alumni can make connections through various services that the Career Center offers. Seek out professional development opportunities within your workplace, including conferences, workshops, mentoring programs, or leadership trainings. Now that you are in a real-world setting, there will be other skills you will need to learn!
Stay in touch: As your graduating class prepares to travel down different paths, you will have so much to offer one another as you gain further knowledge and life experiences. By staying in touch with former classmates, you may encounter opportunities to collaborate in work or network in a field different than your own. To start, you can join UMBC’s Chapter of Young Alumni, open to graduates of the last decade. Membership is free via the UMBC Alumni Association, which offers chances for networking and fun throughout the year. Join our LinkedIn page to see where over 60,250 UMBC alumni are working!
Life after college is what you make of it. Keep an eye open to the countless experiences that are waiting for you outside of UMBC. Your very next lesson may be one that carries you through life!
You are not at UMBC only to seek recognition. You are here to gain an education. But, if you are a strong student, you may find yourself making the Dean’s List, joining (or even leading) honor societies, working toward an Honors College Medallion, or applying for merit scholarships in your field. Here is some information to help you navigate these opportunities at UMBC.
Academic Honors based on Semester Grades
The academic honor available to the largest number of UMBC students is completely automatic. Full-time students who achieve certain semester grade point averages receive a notation on their permanent UMBC transcripts as follows:
Semester Academic Honors = 3.50 and up
Dean’s List Honors = 3.75 and up
President’s List Honors = 4.00
The beauty of this recognition is that you get a chance at it every fall and spring semester. It is definitely a morale boost also and resume-worthy when you see one of these notations on your transcript. It places you among the most successful students at UMBC in a given semester.
Honor Societies-Multi-disciplinary
Honor societies may be identified by Greek letters, but they are not fraternities or sororities in the usual sense of “Greek life” on campus. Based on your academic performance at UMBC, you may be invited to join one or more of these organizations. You do not apply for membership. The most active honor societies on campus are:
Phi Beta Kappa: The big Kahuna of American scholarly honor societies, PBK was founded at the College of William and Mary back in 1776 (a big year for the American colonies!). To win a Phi Beta Kappa key, a student has to achieve very high grades in a course of study that includes courses across the liberal arts well beyond minimum general education requirements for a degree. A faculty committee here at UMBC evaluates potential selectees for Phi Beta Kappa honors. UMBC’s faculty and staff who were PBK members from their undergraduate days had to demonstrate the breadth and rigor of our academic program to establish a chapter of this prestigious honor society in 1998. This is one invitation you will definitely want to accept if offered.
Phi Kappa Phi: Founded in 1897 at the University of Maine, Phi Kappa Phi honors high-achieving students in all disciplines, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The UMB-UMBC chapter was installed at UMBC in 2010 and is hard at work at creating campus presence. Phi Kappa Phi’s motto is “Let the love of learning rule humanity.”
Golden Key International Honor Society: Golden Key membership is extended to high-achieving students in all disciplines. The national and international organizations offer a large program of scholarships and awards open to members as well as regional and national conferences. UMBC’s award-winning chapter of Golden Key is well known for its extensive community service commitments, such as hosting an annual Halloween party for children at Villa Maria Children’s Center. A tutoring program at Arbutus Middle School is another project recently launched.
Tau Sigma National Honor Society: Founded in 1999 at Auburn University, Tau Sigma recognizes and supports talented transfer students at four-year universities. This society does require students who believe they meet the criteria to apply for membership. Membership is available to transfer students who achieve high-grade averages during their first full-time semester of enrollment at UMBC. The UMBC chapter was created in 2007.
Graduation Honors
Honors are based upon coursework taken throughout a student’s entire undergraduate academic career at UMBC. To be eligible for Honors, students must have earned at least 60 graded credits at UMBC (excluding Pass/Fail and Audit grades) with a GPA as follows:
Summa cum laude (“With highest honor”): Students graduating with a GPA between 3.95 and 4.0.
Magna cum laude (“With high honor”): Students graduating with a GPA between 3.75 and 3.9499.
Cum laude (“With honor”): Students graduating with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.7499.
Visit the Registrar’s website for how graduation honors in calculated.
Academic Recognition for Varsity Athletes
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and other external organizations sponsor a variety of awards recognizing the academic achievements of varsity athletes. UMBC athletes and whole teams regularly receive recognition for maintaining high academic standards despite demanding athletic schedules. Also, UMBC sponsors a chapter of the National College Athlete Honor Society,
Academic Merit Scholarships
The great bulk of academic merit scholarships at UMBC are awarded to students at the time they are admitted to UMBC. However, there are some opportunities for students enrolled at UMBC to compete for scholarships based primarily on academic achievement, sometimes in combination with service and need. For example, UMBC sponsors a small scholarship for returning women students. The UMBC Alumni Association also sponsors scholarships for continuing students. The Honors College and the Ancient Studies Department have some study abroad scholarships. The UMBC Theatre Department provides modest scholarships to majors based on academic performance and service. An extensive listing of such scholarships is available.
These scholarships are as much a way for UMBC to recognize top students as they are a means of financial support. Applying for merit scholarships at UMBC is therefore very worthwhile, even if the amounts involved are modest. These scholarships come and go, so be sure to do careful research.
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Did you know that, according to the Kauffman Foundation, two thirds, or more than 2,000 U.S. universities and colleges offer at least one course in entrepreneurship? Fortunately, you attend UMBC – a bold institution that not only provides entrepreneurship courses and a very popular, fast-moving minor in the field but is also home to the Alex. Brown Center for Entrepreneurship.
Markus Proctor designed an Individualized Study (INDS) major which focused on Tech Entrepreneurship and Organizational Management. The creator of a web-based platform that helps students keep organized, on task, and up to date with changes in their course syllabi, launched a company called EduPal which pivoted into new directions including virtual reality and analytics. An Extra Credit staff writer sat down with Markus to talk about entrepreneurship, his experience at UMBC and some recommendations for current students.
EC: How can UMBC students approach their education (course decisions, internship choices, significant choices) in an entrepreneurial fashion?
MP: Entrepreneurship can extend beyond its economic/business definition into many different areas of our lives because, in simple terms, it's all about value creation through innovative problem-solving. Students should focus on the "value-add" of their choices as often as possible whether its selecting courses, applying for internships, or declaring a major/minor. Before making rushed decisions, students should ask "how does this create value for me?" and "how can I confirm my assumptions?". This is where leveraging resources on campus to make an informed, decisive decision is critical.
EC: What do you feel has been your greatest success at UMBC and what resources from UMBC contributed to that success?
MP: My greatest success at UMBC is building a reputable start-up in the Baltimore region that has allowed me to meet exceptional people, receive awards, and thoroughly enjoy the process of learning. There are many resources that have contributed to that success:
EC: What experience, course, relationship, or resource at UMBC do you consider to be the most significant "difference-maker" as a student and entrepreneur at UMBC?
MP: The Cangialosi Business Innovation Competitionwas the one experience that made the most significant difference in my journey as an "edupreneur" and student; I highly recommend that students participate in this event.
EC: If you could go back and "redo" your first three years at UMBC, what would you do differently and why?
MP: I would network with more students on campus because we have an abundance of talent on campus. Who knows what can happen if more students integrated their abilities to solve big problems?
KEY LINKS:
The Minor in Entrepreneurship at UMBC
The Shattuck Family Internship Program for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Social Change
Markus Proctor, founder of EduPal, is ready for career as an entrepreneur
"Five TED Talks Every Entrepreneur Should Watch" by Jayson Demers on entrepreneur.com
]]>You may have plenty of Instagram, Snapchat or Twitter friends -- but are you connected with professionals within your career field of interest? Networking and developing relationships with professionals are some the most effective ways to learn how to navigate your career path. Who knows --- someone in your professional network may provide an opportunity for you to take your first or next career step!
Below are a few tips on how to go beyond your social network and make professional connections!
Tip 1: Ask everyone for advice, ideas, leads and referrals
You may gain a lot of insight just by listening to the fascinating and inspiring career stories from professionals in your field. Many professionals (new and seasoned) are happy to talk about their career pathways with aspiring professionals just like you! Politely asking them if they could share a little time with you in person (preferably); or via email –could open up the opportunity for you to discover key facts and details about someone who is “actually doing” the things you are considering doing in the future. Furthermore, they also might help you find “insider” opportunities for internships, part-time jobs or high-profile volunteering assignments.
Tip 2: Create a professional email and/or professional networking profile
LinkedIn is a social network created primarily for building professional connections. Your profile serves as an interactive resume, where you can list your professional experience and educational credentials. You can join professional groups and search and apply for jobs. There are more than 58,100 UMBC alumni currently on LinkedIn!
Tip 3: Start Connecting at UMBC!
The Career Center hosts networking events and job fairs on a regular basis. Participate in informational interviews, Networking 101, LinkedIn 101 or join the UMBC-Alumni Student Networking Group on LinkedIn!
Now is the time to focus on your “Future Selfie”! In addition to building your personal brand, you can attend events/presentations, grab badges along the way, get connected to the rest of the world and explore professional options!
There are many career networking and professional mentorship opportunities which are available through the range of services, programs and initiatives sponsored by the Shriver Center – especially with respect to civic engagement and community based service delivery.
And Remember…
Follow up, follow up, and follow up (you get the point) – with your professional contacts! Whether it’s sending them an email every few months, or a message through Linked In, or placing a call to check in – it’s important to maintain all of the connections you make. They’ll be sure to come in handy when you are ready to make your next step!
It is likely that social media is a part of your daily routine and a main way that you stay socially connected to friends and family.
But perhaps you don’t know some of the more unique ways social media can help maximize your overall college experience. If that’s the case, let us highlight three ways you can use social media as a college student:
Connect with UMBC Offices and Organizations
Many UMBC offices and organizations have their own active social media accounts. You can follow a UMBC office or organization to learn more about the services they provide or exciting opportunities they have for students. And some, like our office, welcome DMs (direct messages) from students regarding any questions or concerns you may have.
Check out some of these UMBC social media accounts:
Network with potential employers
Whether you are on the hunt for an internship, job, or exploring graduate school opportunities, following the social media accounts of places you’re interested in can tell you a lot about its mission, values, and community. This can give you some insight into whether or not a place would be a good fit for you. Some companies and organizations might even use their social media accounts to advertise employment opportunities.
If you are preparing for an internship or job interview, the information you gather from social media can then be used to show that you’ve done your research and have a working knowledge of the company or organization’s practices and current ventures.
Having a LinkedIn account is a great way to connect with professionals working in the field you are interested in. Using LinkedIn, you can message professionals to set up informational interviews (i.e. - to learn about how they entered into the field or to learn more about their job). You could also use a site like LinkedIn to join interest groups and participate in online discussions related to your field of interest.
Gathering Survey Data/Assistance with Class Assignments
Do you need to conduct research for your class? Whether posting qualitative questions you want students to respond to, or sending out a survey link, social media can help you get responses from a larger group of people in a shorter amount of time – just be sure to check ahead of time to make sure your professor is okay with you using this method to gather information!
Additionally, if a class assignment requires community-based work or research, you can use social media to help you connect and network with local organizations that may be able to assist you.
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Bonus:
Check out this UMBC course!
MCS 355 – Social Media: Networking and Mobility; pre-requisites are MCS 101 or 222 and ENGL 100 or equivalent
This course is designed to encourage students to critically engage with the growing role that social media, online networks, and mobile communication technologies play in their understanding of self and community, sociability and privacy. Students will reflect on the centrality of collaboration, networking, and participation in social media technologies. Assignments and readings will require students to interact with core questions surrounding the emergence of social media and the impact of living increasingly mediated lives. Special attention will be paid to the centrality of writing in a digital world, even as the platforms for composition, editing, and publication have changed.
]]>Rose Malone is a Study Abroad Advisor in the Study Abroad Office at UMBC (newly located in Administration 301!). As an undergraduate student, Rose studied abroad in London, England and Skibbereen, Ireland. She sat down with us to discuss not only the steps involved with studying abroad, but also the impact the experience can have on a student’s life.
Break it down as easy as you can, what are the steps students need to take if they want to study abroad?
Simply put, if students plan to study abroad they should (in the following order):
• Attend a Study Abroad 101 session
• Determine which courses/requirements they still need to fulfill (this can be done through meeting with their academic advisor or a degree audit)
• Pick out 1-5 study abroad programs from our website that offer the coursework they need
• Schedule an appointment with a Study Abroad advisor
• Meet with The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships to discuss which scholarships, grants or loans can be applied
What should students consider when trying to select a study abroad program?
Students should consider:
• Coursework needs
• If they want to become more proficient in a language (if so, study abroad where that language is spoken)
• Do they want to live in a rural area, big city, college town, city campus, warm environment, colder environment?
• Which type of housing they want (homestay, residence hall, apartment?)
• What type of credit they can receive (resident or transfer)
• Level of immersion (i.e.- how much separation do you want from your home culture?)
• Internship or service learning, etc.
There are so many things to consider, which can seem daunting but there is something for everyone!
Is there an aspect of the study abroad planning process that many students, in retrospect, wish they had spent more time on/focused on?
This is a great question, but hard to answer across the board. I think one aspect that students should spend more time planning is the alignment of their language requirement and their study abroad experience. The best way to learn a language is through immersion, so if you study Spanish at UMBC because it would be useful in a future job, but study abroad in Germany and take one language course, you're probably not going to be proficient in either language. So if you want to put "proficient in Spanish" on your resume, you should probably study abroad somewhere Spanish-speaking! But students can study abroad anywhere they want!
Apart from some of the more well-known or "cliché" reasons to study abroad, why do you think students should make this part of their college experience?
I am not sure most students realize this but only 1 in 10 students nationally study abroad. This means that by studying abroad, you are setting yourself apart from all other graduates. When you walk into an interview for a job or apply for a graduate program, that study abroad experience is an immediate talking point. There are many examples from study abroad that you could use to "describe a time when you worked on a team" or "had to think on your feet.”
Are there any current UMBC study abroad programs you'd like to make a shameless plug for right now?
Yes! Our faculty-led programs for Summer 2019! They are open to all majors and many fulfill major, minor or GEP requirements! Most have a deadline of 2/15 except for our program in Cuba, which has a deadline of 1/31.
Make the most of your summer and apply today: https://goabroad.umbc.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.FeaturedPrograms
If you yourself could study abroad right now, where would you go and why?
There are so many places I haven't been yet that this is a hard question! I think I would want to go somewhere in Asia! I think one of the most undervalued aspects of study abroad is the structure and support that comes along with it. When you go on a program, you have so much more support than if you were traveling as a tourist. I would love to have program support in Asia, somewhere that I don't speak any of the languages, so that I could feel supported and venture out on my own.
Any good stories from your own study abroad experience?
Too many to include here! I think one of the most rewarding moments of my first study abroad experience in London was when a tourist asked me for directions and I was able to give them. That is when I knew I was a "Londoner!" I didn't need to look up tube stop names or landmarks because I knew them!
]]>We get it: the financial struggle is REAL at times! Taking out student loans, paying bills, managing expenses and saving money all require strategic planning and decision making.
The resources below may help you in your overall spending and set a foundation for future savings.
Financial aid can come in the form of grants, work study, student loans, parent loans, scholarships and other awards. A counselor is available to help walk you through your options.
UMBC's Monthly Payment Plan (MPP) can help you budget your out of pocket costs not covered by financial aid. The plan enables you to pay tuition and fees as well as university room and board on an installment basis.
Students who attend UMBC full-time may consider enrolling in (and finishing) 15 credits per fall and spring semester. Not only will this plan help students graduate within a timely fashion, it also yields other financial benefits such as lower overall tuition/educational expenses and lower student loan debt.
This site provides students with information on finance-related topics such as credit, investing, job seeking, and budgeting.
Speaking of budget, we encourage you to check out our new MyBudgetCoach program. This online platform allows you to work closely with a trained coach who will help you make informed decisions and develop a budget to meet your financial goals.
For ongoing announcements and updates on financial education and literacy opportunities at UMBC, join the Financial Smarts myUMBC Group.
Not all textbooks are available to rent, but for those that are, this can significantly cut down on your book budget for the semester! Renting can often be a good option for your non-major courses.
It’s simple, carpooling saves on gas. UMBC has partnered with Zimride by Enterprise to help connect you to other UMBC students in your area who are looking to carpool.
Some other tips include:
Using an app to manage your money – There’s an app for that! Online Banking, websites like Mint.com, and budgeting spreadsheets can provide you with plenty of ways to keep your finances organized.
Keeping an eye out for student discounts – From museums, to movie theater tickets, to cell phone plans --- don’t hesitate to ask retailers and businesses if they offer student discounts!
Planning for big expenses in advance - Putting a little money aside each pay check will help you avoid the strain of having to decide between splurging on an afternoon at the mall or paying for school expenses such as text books or meal plans.
Being conservative with credit cards – Having a credit card or two can be good if you use them strategically. Start by maintaining one card and make at least one charge to it every month, such as gas or groceries.
And for fun, check out Baltimore College Town for your weekly run-down of free and affordable entertainment in the area!
Do you have some financially savvy ideas you would like to share? Feel free to post them below!
Freshmen and Sophomores: When should I start looking for internships, service learning or other types of experience?
UMBC: It is never too early to start! In fact, we recommend that you start exploring right away!
You may have heard the word “experiential learning” several times during your initial visits to UMBC, new student orientation, and other presentations. Experiential learning encompasses activities such as internships, shadowing experiences, study abroad, independent research, or service learning. In essence, experiential learning allows you to reflect on your experiences while doing the work that really matters. Learn more about Kolb’s experiential learning theory.
We take pride in our experiential learning opportunities here at UMBC. Below are ways that you can take your experiences to the next level. Gaining experience now can translate into future job opportunities.
UMBC is committed to undergraduate research and our Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarships has opportunities for students in STEM, Social Sciences, Humanities, international students, graduating seniors, and more!
The annual Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day (URCAD) will take place on April 24th! Although the deadline to submit proposals has passed, we encourage you to check out the event for some future ideas!
Studying abroad is one of the best ways to acquire global and intercultural skills. Applications for Summer 2019 programs are currently being accepted. In order to get started, you must first attend a Study Abroad 101 session held by the Office of International Education Services. Sessions are held:
Mondays: 12:00 pm -1:00 pm
Wednesdays: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Thursdays: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
All sessions are in the Administration Building, Rm 301.
If you are living in the Baltimore area and looking for spring/fall opportunities, we encourage you to apply for the Bmore Abroad Scholarship!
Want to become a social change agent? The Shriver Center can connect you with opportunities for service learning and civic engagement. Scholarships for service are also available!
You can stop by the Career Center at any time, but keep an eye out for Career Month in April! The Career Center will host several opportunities to connect with prospective employers who are hiring UMBC students for internships and co-ops. In some cases, you can even earn academic credit!
Shadowing and Volunteer Opportunities
You can learn "on the job" skills and training through shadowing and volunteering as well. Whether you are tutoring middle school students or shadowing clinicians in a health care facility, you are gaining invaluable experience that can prepare you for the real world. If you find a place you would like to explore, we recommend reaching out and asking about these opportunities.
Remember, it is never too early to get a head start on your career! Take the first step today!
Holding a student leadership position provides you with an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the UMBC community.
As a student leader, you’ll be able to gain valuable professional experience (that you’ll be able to add to your resume), develop new friendships and make great college memories!
While there are countless ways to get involved in student leadership roles, including holding positions in student organizations, we’d like to highlight some unique “peer advisor” positions on campus that will give you the opportunity to share your experiences and wisdom with new students and students in transition, and play an important role in supporting student success.
Orientation Peer Advisor (OPA) – Be a part of a close-knit team of students who welcome new students and their families to campus during the summer and winter terms during New Student Orientation.
Welcome Week Leaders (Woolies) – As part of the Woolie team you will serve as a resource to all incoming students during Welcome Week, supporting students in their transition to campus and helping them connect to events and upcoming opportunities. Application for 2019 will be available in early March!
IHU Peer Facilitator – IHU Peer Facilitators are an integral part of all Introduction to an Honor’s University (IHU) courses, assisting instructors in course preparation, lesson implementation and serving as a resource to students throughout their time in the course. Application for 2019 will be available in early March!
OAPA Peer Advisor – *Shameless plug for our office, the Office for Academic & Pre-Professional Advising!*
We will be taking applications in late February/March from students interested in helping to staff our front desk, providing informal advising to students, and assisting in the planning and implementation of various office-sponsored events, primarily targeting students who are exploring majors or who are interest in allied health professions.
Undergraduate Admissions A-Team – Do you have an interest in sharing your UMBC spirit with prospective and incoming students? The Office of Undergraduate Admissions has a variety of positions for students interested in promoting UMBC and helping students navigate the admissions process.
Resident Student Association (RSA) – Be a part of a student-run, representative organization that works alongside Residential Life staff to advocate for the needs and well-being of students living on campus, as well as encouraging students to engage in their housing community.
Transfer Student Network (TSN) Leaders – TSN Leaders will assist prospective, incoming, and current transfer students with their transition into UMBC by leading workshops and other programs, and serving as the face of OCSS at the front desk. Application will be available at the end of the semester via UMBC Works!
]]>The end is in sight! If you've earned 90 or more academic credits, you received a message from the Registrar's Office informing you that you are eligible to apply for graduation.
However, eligibility is only the start of the graduation application process. Below are four simple steps you can take now to ensure that you’ll soon be shaking hands with Dr. Hrabowski as you receive your UMBC diploma.
Note: Even if you do not plan to attend the commencement ceremony, you still need to apply to graduate in order to earn your degree.
Step 1: Apply for Graduation!
Friday, February 15th is the last day undergraduates can apply for May Graduation.
Only those students who have every single requirement needed for degree completion on their spring semester schedules will be permitted to participate in the Commencement ceremony.
If you are taking a course at another institution that you plan to transfer, you must have an approved Verification of Transferability formon file with the Registrar’s Office and be prepared to submit a copy of your schedule.
Step 2: Embrace your degree audit!
Your degree audit indicates your progress toward degree completion. If you see “unsatisfied” items, these are requirements that need to be addressed immediately. Your degree audit is located on myUMBC, under the guide link “Advising and Student Support.”
Makesure any substitutions or waivers of major requirements are documented in your degree audit; you may need to submit a Help/RT ticket to the Registrar’s Office to add these notations to your record.
Step 3: Wrap up any outstanding details ASAP!
If you have Advanced Placement or CLEP scores, transfer transcripts, 201 lever language substitutions, or other items you need to provide to UMBC, delay no longer! If the major, minor, or certificate program on your record is out of date, or if you have additional majors or minors that you need to remove, submit a new Declaration of Major form. Any of these items could prevent you from being able to graduate.
Step 4: Let the celebration begin!
Participating in the commencement ceremony* and other celebratory activities on campus is the culmination of all of your hard work. Take time to recognize all it took to get you to this moment and be proud of your accomplishments!
Finally, use this link to check your Honors eligibility.
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