It’s the end of April and I’m almost done with my freshman year of college. I’ve learned how to balance school, friends, and work. I’m super excited to start my summer, but I am thankful for a great school year with an awesome learning community.

1. You’re only a few T stops to anywhere in Boston.

Being close to the city provides endless activities keep you busy. There are great restaurants, theaters and parks. The school also offers discounted movie and sports game tickets. There’s never an excuse to be bored.

2. Endless majors to choose from:

UMass Boston has over 100 undergraduate programs. Whether you know what you want to pursue as a career or not, there is an option for everyone.

3. Small class sizes

In general, most of the class sizes that I have been in are under 30 people. With a small class there are more opportunities to connect with you professor. Every professor wants their students to succeed and this is much more achievable in a smaller class size. It also isn’t intimidating to raise your hand in class to ask a question, opposed to having 300 eyes on you at a larger school.

4. Commuting

Personally, living in a huge building with 200 other people and sharing a 10 foot by 12 foot bedroom with someone did not sound like my cup of tea. UMass Boston is in the process of building dorms, but have not completed the building. As an incoming freshman the idea of living in a private apartment in the city is exciting. Getting to decorate and furnish an apartment with a couple of friends sounded much more fun than living in a cramped, smelly dorm room.

5. Sunrise and sunset over Boston Harbor

The sunrise and sunset on campus is the best in Massachusetts. Every morning and afternoon there are pink and orange beautiful sunsets over the harbor. The water is visible from almost all academic buildings on campus so there is always a good view.

6. Free food and prizes

During the first week of every semester there are always “Welcome Week” events going on including free food, coffee mugs, winter gloves, shirts, keychains, etc. Throughout the semester clubs also have tables set up for free snacks and other prizes. There’s always an opportunity to grab some free goodies on campus.

7. Great location for internships and job opportunities

A major aspect of college is being able to build a competitive resume that will interest employers. UMass Boston is able to place students in companies in the greater Boston area for internships and other learning opportunities.

As a nursing student, I will have the opportunity to complete my clinical rotations at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, and other renowned health facilities in the Boston.

8. Great education for a better price

Finances are one of the primary motives behind college decisions. When I was applying to college, I knew I wanted to attend a state school to save money. In addition to being an affordable state school, UMass Boston is in the city of Boston.

9. Campus involvement

There are a variety of clubs and organizations on campus. Some clubs are career or major-specific, such as the Philosophy Club, while others, like the Desi Student Society and the Slam Poets Society, cater to lifestyle and culture. Clubs span far and wide through interests and hobbies but if your passion isn't covered, you only need a couple of people to start a new club.

10. Diversity

On campus, you will notice the student population is more diverse than at most college campuses. Diversity extends beyond promotional material for prospective students. This is exemplified through the array of multi-cultural clubs on campus, such as the Hoy!Pinoy! (Filipino), Khmer Culture Association (Cambodian), Saudi Student Association, the Haitian American Society and more.

I am very grateful to be included in such a great community!