St. Mary's is a challenging school. It's a public honors college, so expect to do actual work here. With that being said, the classes offered are fantastic. Look at the academic catalog, which can be found online, to get a feel of the classes you might want to take if you attend. We have really cool programs like Museum Studies and Asian Studies, too. There's a program for everyone here. Classes are small, so professors will notice if you're not there. They will ask you questions. They will challenge you.
Do you enjoy the experience at your school?
A common complaint I've heard amongst people is that SMCM is in the middle of nowhere. While it's true that St. Mary's County is no New York City, there are always a ton of things going on at campus. Not to mention, we live on one of the most BEAUTIFUL campuses I've ever seen. Utilize the river: rent a kayak, go swimming, tan on the docks, or learn how to sail. Our athletic programs are fantastic as well (especially basketball and swimming!). St. Mary's just has such a warm, community feeling. I enjoy being here because this is my home. Both the students and teachers feel this way about our campus.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
I'm not going to lie, St. Mary's is expensive. Not as expensive as a lot of schools, but still, my parents have had to make financial adjustments. But is it worth it? Absolutely. St. Mary's faculty are warm and understanding. You won't be in a class of 300 like at UMD. You will be an actual person here, instead of just being another body in a lecture hall. Like I said before, the atmosphere is fantastic. The surroundings are beautiful. The classes are challenging.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
VISIT THE CAMPUS. You'll feel the community sense I was talking about. And you can see the beauty for yourself! Make sure to look at the river and the campus center. Oh, and the library. You'll be spending some time there. When you're applying, there is usually an option between a traditional essay and a video component. No matter which you choose, be creative. Be yourself. As always, grades/extracurriculars/SATs are important. But SMCM looks at the whole student. Don't get too hung up on one bad grade or one low SAT score. Scheduling an interview with admissions also shows that you're interested in the school.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
Creative, artsy, intelligent, those working for social change.
We have a really active LGBT community. Anyone of any sexual orientation can feel welcome here. We also have a bunch of students concerned with the environment. If you like being eco-friendly, this is the school for you. A large number of students are also involved in Varsity/club/intramural sports.
St. Mary's is a challenging school. It's a public honors college, so expect to do actual work here. With that being said, the classes offered are fantastic. Look at the academic catalog, which can be found online, to get a feel of the classes you might want to take if you attend. We have really cool programs like Museum Studies and Asian Studies, too. There's a program for everyone here. Classes are small, so professors will notice if you're not there. They will ask you questions. They will challenge you.
A common complaint I've heard amongst people is that SMCM is in the middle of nowhere. While it's true that St. Mary's County is no New York City, there are always a ton of things going on at campus. Not to mention, we live on one of the most BEAUTIFUL campuses I've ever seen. Utilize the river: rent a kayak, go swimming, tan on the docks, or learn how to sail. Our athletic programs are fantastic as well (especially basketball and swimming!). St. Mary's just has such a warm, community feeling. I enjoy being here because this is my home. Both the students and teachers feel this way about our campus.
I'm not going to lie, St. Mary's is expensive. Not as expensive as a lot of schools, but still, my parents have had to make financial adjustments. But is it worth it? Absolutely. St. Mary's faculty are warm and understanding. You won't be in a class of 300 like at UMD. You will be an actual person here, instead of just being another body in a lecture hall. Like I said before, the atmosphere is fantastic. The surroundings are beautiful. The classes are challenging.
VISIT THE CAMPUS. You'll feel the community sense I was talking about. And you can see the beauty for yourself! Make sure to look at the river and the campus center. Oh, and the library. You'll be spending some time there. When you're applying, there is usually an option between a traditional essay and a video component. No matter which you choose, be creative. Be yourself. As always, grades/extracurriculars/SATs are important. But SMCM looks at the whole student. Don't get too hung up on one bad grade or one low SAT score. Scheduling an interview with admissions also shows that you're interested in the school.
Creative, artsy, intelligent, those working for social change. We have a really active LGBT community. Anyone of any sexual orientation can feel welcome here. We also have a bunch of students concerned with the environment. If you like being eco-friendly, this is the school for you. A large number of students are also involved in Varsity/club/intramural sports.