Yesterday we welcomed more incoming freshmen students during yet another fantastic Orientation program. During the afternoon portion of the Family Orientation program we had a session where the families of the students were able to talk to a group of current UMBC students and ask them just what it was like to be at UMBC. The session went really well but one question that came up that seems to make new students a little anxious is “What will it be like to live in the dorms?” There are a lot of changes that occur for students as they head off to college but living with a stranger can be one of the biggest adjustments. I hope to calm your nerves a little by letting you know that from my personal experience it is not really that bad. Sure, not everyone will be best friends with their roommate but if you sit down and work out some general rules to respect each other then things usually go pretty smoothly.
When you move into your new home for the next academic year it is important to think about what to bring-what you really need and what you can do without. The UMBC residence halls are larger than your average dorm room but you will be sharing that space so you may need to leave a few things at home (see example). I recommend checking out the following link from the Residential Life website of what things you can bring and what is not allowed.
We look forward to seeing more of you as we continue Orientation throughout the summer. Pretty soon you will all be back for Welcome Week and then starting into the semester. Have a great summer!
