1. Sometimes what matters is not just who wins but by how much. Take Maryland’s Question 6, which would allow gay and lesbian couples to marry. The outcome is going to send a message across America, and a part of that message is going to be encompassed in the amount of support for each side. Every vote will matter. 
2. Public officials and candidates in the next election are going to know how many people in your demographic group voted, and that knowledge is likely to shape their priorities. If you want them to address the concerns of your age group (for example), you should show up and be counted. 
3. The point of an election is not just to choose the winning candidates. It is also to affirm that we are one nation despite our differences. When you participate, you become symbolically connected to every living American, every patriot who ever sacrificed for our country, every civil rights hero, and to the Revolution itself. In the diverse faces standing in lines that bend around the walls of our schools, community centers, and government buildings, we see our family, friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens demonstrating their commitment to democracy. And they should see you. 
4. To vote is to accept responsibility. Our communities and nation face countless challenges. Our governments at every level are taking action, or failing to act, in our name. You can turn your back and rage against the machine, or you can get your hands dirty building a better world. Voting alone is not going to fix anything, but it is an important step: a way of saying, “I’m here and ready to play my part.” 
5. Voting is not just a civic ritual but a firsthand experience of the democratic process. What do you think of early voting? Electronic voting? Voting for electors rather than directly for President? Vote, gain some insight, and then do something about it. 
6. A vote is a ticket to broader influence. Even if your vote will not determine the outcome of the election, your conversations and organizing work can inspire many other voters, enough to make a difference. But if you don’t vote, you have no credibility. 
7. There is power in walking your talk. Vote, and you do not have to live with the image of yourself as a maker of excuses. Vote, and be proud that you did.

Parents and Families,

Please be advised that the following message was sent to all residential students on October 29, 2012 regarding Hurricane Sandy.

Hurricane Sandy currently is tracking along the eastern coast of the United States and is expected to impact our area within the next 72 hours. The University Police will be responsible for all emergency notification to all UMBC personnel, including students, however an important message was sent to all residential students regarding this matter. Please visit this website to see this information related to our inclement weather protocol. If you have questions contact Residential Life 410-455-2591.

The Diversity Summer Internship Program (DSIP) at the Bloomberg School of Public Health is a 10-week summer program that provides undergraduates with a graduate-level, independent research project in the biomedical or public health field.

Students work under the direct mentoring of accomplished Johns Hopkins researchers, gaining valuable experience in a collaborative, challenging and fun environment.

The Diversity Summer Internship Program welcomes applicants from all over the United States, including underrepresented and economically disadvantaged areas. Starting November 1, 2012, visit the Diversity Summer Internship Program’s online application page to begin filling out an application.