At the beginning of the last semester at my community college, I had to make a major decision, “Where do I want to go next?” I understood the importance of an education that would help me reach my professional dream of becoming a Marketing Professional, so I wanted to choose a distinguished school that could help me reach that dream. After extensive of research, I had decided that I wanted to go to the University of Maryland. And these are the reasons why I chose to go to the University of Maryland:
1. Diversity
UMD is ranked #195 in ethnic diversity nationwide with a student body composition that is far above the national average by College Factual. Its student body consists of students from anywhere you could think of in the world. I have met people from Zimbabwe, England, to even my native country, Vietnam. I have made many friends and have learned so many things that I thought I would never be able to if not for being at Maryland. From language to culture, to even foods, it’s a perfect example of the melting pot.
2. Reputation
Talking about college, I think we all understand the importance of reputation because it is one of the factors that will lend your future job and UMD has it all. In 2015, UMD was named to the Times Higher Education’s World Reputation Rankings list. In 2016, UMD is ranked #14 among public colleges, #82 among all institutions, and #24 Best Value College in Forbes America's Top Colleges 2016. Its prominent schools include Robert H. Smith School of Business, College of Education, A. James Clark School of Engineering. UMD is also known for its outstanding sports programs such as basketball, track, and soccer if you are an athlete.
3. Courses
Where does UMD’s reputation come from? It is the courses that create it. Maryland offers any major and any course that you could think of, such as arts, engineering, biology, business, languages, and almost everything else. Specifically, what makes it a great school is the courses themselves, which are designed to give students real learning experience and the skills that will help them succeed in the real world.
4. Campus
What could be better than an iconic, green, and dynamic campus? UMD campus is considered as one of the most beautiful and iconic American college quads by Business Insider. In addition, every corner you go on the campus, you could find recycle bins, green trees, and flowers that promote sustainability. Last but not the least, you could also find Terps signs everywhere on campus; it’s the enthusiasm and spirit that make the campus feels like home.
5. People
As I mentioned before, people at Maryland are from all over the world. Faculty, staff, and students have great personalities. The faculty is experienced with great leadership and will do their best to help students reach their goals. The staff is helpful and friendly and once again will make you feel like at home. And our students are welcoming, outgoing and will make your college experience be better than ever.
My school career at UMD is going by really fast. Next semester, I will be a senior and will graduate in no time. However, I am happy with my decision in choosing UMD as the place to extend my education. I have learned so many things, have met so many people, and most important of all, have understood myself better. Thank you UMD! I am proud of being a Terp.
