The October Dissertation House will be held on October 2nd and 3rd at UMBC, Commons Building, Room 329.
What is Dissertation House?
This is a free, two-day, writing-intensive event designed for all master's and Ph.D. students working on a significant writing project, whether it's a master's thesis, a research publication, a doctoral research proposal, or a dissertation. We've created a space to help you focus, free from distractions, and to give you the dedicated time you need to make significant progress.
Two Levels of Engagement
We are offering two different options to ensure you get the support that's right for you. All participants will work in the same space and attend workshops tailored to the academic progress of those in attendance. These workshops are designed to help you overcome writing roadblocks, improve your relationship with your advisors, learn project management skills, identify resources, etc.
Level 1: The Writing Intensive
This is a two-day event from 9 AM to 4 PM, providing a dedicated writing space and an accountability group to help you stay on track. This is ideal for students who face challenges setting aside focused time for their writing. You must plan to attend both days, full-time.
Level 2: Personalized Coaching (Not required to participate, but very beneficial, and limited space is available- 10 spots!)
In addition to participating in everything from the Level 1 Writing Intensive, Level 2 participants will get personalized support from our dissertation coach. Our coach provides specialized, one-on-one assistance to students completing a master's thesis or doctoral dissertation. To be eligible for Level 2, you will complete a supplemental part of the Dissertation House interest form that asks you to upload a writing sample. This gives the coach an idea of your writing style and how to tailor support for you. The coaching session helps you overcome writing challenges, improve productivity, and opens the door to keep working with the coach for the rest of the year after attending Dissertation House, for free!
Important Details
Space is limited due to room capacity, so please fill out this easy-to-complete form to let us know you are interested in attending. Please save the dates and plan to attend the full two days. We know it's a significant time commitment, but it has proven to be incredibly effective for those who need a focused environment to advance their writing.
Here's what previous participants had to say about the event:
"I have achieved more this week than I would have in a typical month. Having professionals on-hand to assist me, and having structured time to do the work has been invaluable." (Carter-Veale et al., 2016).
"I had nothing on paper, I now have an overall outline and I feel that I will be able to get finished now. This workshop has helped me become 'unblocked.' I have been at UMBC for 4 ½ years and was in danger of just quitting." (Carter-Veale et al., 2016).
Decisions will be made by September 26th, so we are closing the application on September 25th.
We look forward to seeing you there!
If you have questions or need particular accommodations, please email us at promise@umbc.edu.
All GSPD services and programs are open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.
Eligible UMBC undergraduate and graduate students may also enroll in a free, 0-credit, pass/fail practicum course (PRAC) to receive additional structure and support while completing their Google Career Certificate.
Looking to get more connected as a graduate student? Join us RIGHT NOW, Monday 9/22, from 12–2 PM on Commons Main Street for a special Graduate Student Organization (GSO) edition of Mini Involvement Fest!
This is your chance to:
✅ Meet current Graduate Student Organizations (GSOs)
✅ Meet your Graduate Student Association (GSA) representatives
✅ Learn how to get involved in the graduate student community
✅ Build connections beyond the classroom and lab
Stop by, say hi, and find the group that's right for you—because graduate life is better when you're connected!
Grab your free sweatshirt!
]]>Join the Economics Council x Accounting Club for Forensics Files: Mafia, a thrilling night of mystery, strategy, and deception. Come crack the case (or cover your tracks) TODAY from 6–8 PM in Commons 329.
Snacks will be provided, but trust no one…
]]>Calling all student affairs employees that have recently completed or are currently enrolled in a masters or doctoral degree program! In looking ahead to our December 16 Assessment 365 event happening from 1-2pm, we would like to do a session that highlights your unique experience as a professional and a student. This panel would focus on questions around the following topics:
If interested, please reach out to Mary Ellen Wade at mewade@umbc.edu Other than participating in the conversation on the 16, there is no other commitment or work required of you to participate in this panel discussion. Mary Ellen will touch base with you in advance to talk about the questions and conversation flow.
Thanks in advance for your consideration and expertise! ]]>September 22nd: Winter and Spring Break 2026 Faculty-Led Program Applications Due (TODAY!!)
September 22nd: CAHSS Dean's Scholarship for Education Abroad Due (TODAY!!)
October 10th: Most Non-Faculty Led Programs for Spring 2025 Applications Due
3pm-4pm | Virtual: Faculty-Led Study Abroad Virtual Drop-in Hours
Applications for Winter and Spring Break 2026 Faculty-led Programs are due today, on September 22nd! Stop by our Virtual Drop-In Hours with any last minute questions!
12pm-1pm | Virtual: Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship Information Session
Are you a U.S. citizen or national of the United States? Do you receive a Pell grant? Are you planning to study abroad? If so, you may be eligible for the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship! Join our virtual information session to learn more about the program, eligibility, and the application process. The deadline for the next application cycle, for students interested in studying abroad during the Winter 2026, Spring 2026, Summer 2026 or Fall 2026 is Friday, October 3, 2026, at 11:59 pm (PST).
3pm-4pm | UC207: Faculty-Led Study Abroad Drop-in Hours
Summer 2026 Faculty-Led Programs have been posted on our website! Applications will open in November, stop by office hours to get any questions about the programs or application answered!
1pm-2pm | Admin 218: Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship Essay Workshop Session
Are you a U.S. citizen or national of the U.S. receiving a Pell grant and planning to study abroad? You could be eligible for the Gilman Scholarship. If you would like guidance, tips, or feedback on your Gilman Essays, stop by our Essay Workshop!
Our Abroad Ambassadors are all in their host countries and are having amazing study abroad experiences! Read all about them in their Abroad Blogs!
Can't get enough? Follow along on the @UMBCLife and @UMBCeducationabroad as fellow Retrievers share their experiences abroad, insider travel tips, program highlights, and a glimpse into their life abroad.