University of Maryland-College Park

University of Maryland-College Park

College Park, MD, USA
Public
4 Year

Eli S.'s Review

Review of University of Maryland-College Park

from Fort Washington, MD

Do you feel you’re learning a lot?

I am definitely learning a lot at the University of Maryland! There are 250+ majors; my major is Architecture (and I'm absolutely in love with it)! I just finished my first semester and I have to say is was an amazing experience. Academically, the school provided me with an array of opportunities: seven libraries that I could use any time I wanted and WiFi all throughout the campus. All of my professors were incredibly efficient at teaching; just being in the lecture-style atmosphere forced me to work harder. The work was definitely more challenging than high school, but with all of the tutoring opportunities availabe, it was pretty much imposible to fall behind.

Do you enjoy the experience at your school?

I absolutely loved the overall social experience. UMCP is located right on a DC Metro line and transit is available throughout the campus itself. The exposure that all of the students have is absolutely incredible! My friends and I were out in DC at least every other weekend, wether it was for an assignment or just for fun.

Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?

I am an in-state student, and even though I did not recieve any financial aid, I was given the opportunity to get a job. In fact, getting jobs on-campus is encouraged. I currently work in the UMCP Admissions Office nd couldn't be happier with the job. I get to speak with prospective students and their parents, and tell them all they need to know about my school. I can't say that I am rich from the job, but having a job allows me to help out with what little bills that I do have, as well as have so walk around money when I am out with my friends.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

Some tips for prospective students would be to visit your school(s) as much as possible and make a name for yourself, especially if it is a bigger school. If you can't afford to visit the school, then make sure that you communicate with students from the school. Since I was accepted into the school of Architecture at the University of Maryland - College Park, I contacted the School as soon as I found out. After trading emails with a proffessor for about two weeks, I then decided to ask if I could speak with a student. That very same student wound up being my TA during my Architecture intro course.

Which types of students will excel at your college?

UMCP, because it is a big school, would be better for students who enjoy being involved in something. From what I have seen, not being involved in some part of the school -- a club, SGA, etc. -- can cause some students to feel overwhelmed with the large environment. But, as a freshamn in college, I have some advice for any and every incoming college student: you are taking a step into adulthood, and making decisions and exposing yourself to situations/people that sometimes take you out of your comfort zone (as long as they are safe) are what help you to mature and grow into a well-rounded adult.