M-A-R-Y-L-A-N-D!

Introduction
Maryland is a great school for students who are looking to experience new things in college or try to "find themselves". There are so many oppurtunities to meet different people and take part in different experiences. However, for students that are very sheltered and want to stay in their comfort zone, Maryland could be a tricky choice. For those students, it could be very important to come to Maryland with some loose ideas of what they want to get out of college, so they don't get overwhelmed.

Campus Life and Social Life
The best part about going to school at Maryland is that there is literally always something to do. The worst part about Maryland's social life is that there is literally always something to do. Whether it's going to cheer on one of the many championship Terp teams, heading to the bars, or going into DC, there's always something going on and always a way to procrastinate your schoolwork. There are always lots of parties happening at Maryland, and most all are open to anyone who shows up. Although there are only 4 bars currently in College Park, there are always great specials or guest musical acts performing. Even though the bars tend to be crowded on the weekends, sometimes it's nice to go somewhere and see all your friends in one place. Advertisement
Academics
All of the departments at Maryland have good programs, but there are definitely some that get more recognition and funding. The business school seems to always be getting a new wing or parking garage and always getting recognition from famous alumni while some other programs don't even have buildings of their own yet. The Professors are good, and I have found that they are always open to meeting with students and helping as much as they can. Especially as you get farther along in your academic career, professors become more concerned with getting to know each individual student. The workload is easily manageable as long as you learn good time management skills and can occassionally resist the urge to partake in one of the constant events going on.

Student Body
Although it seems like every student is either from Maryland, New York, or New Jersey, there is actually a wide variety of students. Not only are the students from different geographic locations, but they are also so diverse in their opinions and activities, as evidenced by the hundreds of clubs and sports at UMD. I learn something new everyday from one of my friends at school and I'm sure I teach them something too.

In Closing...
Although it's easy to get wrapped up in what's going on and become preoccupied when walking from one class to the next, every so often my mind clears and I notice the beautiful campus of Maryland and I feel so privileged to have spent 4 years here.