I’m 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: Kian Larijani
Hometown: Rockville, MD
Q: How long have you been at UMBC?
A: Wrapping up my second semester here!
Q: What is your current title (job or student organization position)?
A: Maryland Student Legislature (UMBC) Treasurer and SGA Finance Board Secretary.
Q: In 12 words or less, what role(s) do you play on campus?
A: I try to make a difference at UMBC through actions and involvement.
Q: What aspect of your UMBC role(s) do you enjoy most?
A: I love being involved with the Finance Board. As a non-voting member, I'm given the opportunity to learn about all of the exciting events and opportunities that are available on campus for students, from the big popular ones that everyone loves to attend to the hidden gems that still have an amazing impact on this campus. Its amazing to see how much is going on at UMBC and how many creative and different events are available to students. It is also very cool to go to an event and know you were part of the process that made the event possible.
Q: What is the most important or memorable thing you learned in college/have learned at UMBC?
A: I've learned that majors and minors take on a whole new meaning when you are in a liberal arts environment. I've always wanted to study politics, and could never justify taking courses outside of my concentration. But I have recently discovered that interdisciplinary studies and the ability to train yourself to find common ground between seemingly unrelated subject areas is the key to success in any field. Like Abraham Maslow once said, "If you only have a hammer, you tend to see every problem as a nail." My experience at UMBC has allowed me to understand the importance of a broad range of subject areas and appreciate all of my classes. Haha, well, most of them at least...
Q: Complete this sentence: "I am a big fan of __________"
A: Bringing a Chipotle to campus (please?)
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 is always something to do on this campus. If you want to get the most out of college, get involved! And involvement isn't limited to attending organizations' meetings. Take leadership roles, ask questions, make connections with student organizations, and most importantly, voice your opinions. Believe it or not, this campus responds very well to student initiatives. One interesting fact about UMBC is that every student here is a member of the SGA, whether or not you hold an elected or appointed office. So have fun at UMBC and don't be afraid to make your voice heard!
