Welcome Back to Campus!

Welcome back Retrievers! We are excited to have our campus community connecting again in-person. Whether it is your first time joining us, or it’s been a long awaited return, it’s expected that the transition back to campus will impact students in different ways. 

You may be apprehensive about returning or you may be ready to jump in full speed ahead. Wherever you are, it is okay! UMBC is prepared to support you and help ensure that your return to campus is a successful one! 

Below are some tips as you start the fall semester: 

Take care of your emotional and mental well-being. 

First and foremost, it’s important to check in with yourself throughout the semester and prioritize your personal health. 

The Center for Well-Being is located on Center Road between Chesapeake and Susquehanna Halls, The Center for Well-Being includes Retriever Integrated Health (University Health Services, the Office of Health Promotion, and the Counseling Center); Student Conduct and Community Standards; and the Initiatives for Identity, Inclusion & Belonging (i3b) Gathering Space for Spiritual Well-Being. It also includes the Mind Spa—a student space equipped for the practices of mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation—and an informal student meeting/lounge space. 

You can also pay a visit to the newly renovated Retriever Athletics Center for a workout or facilitated class. 

Proactively seek academic support. 

While it may seem counterintuitive, seeking academic support before you encounter academic difficulty can help provide accountability and a solid foundation for tackling the workload you’ll face during the semester. The Academic Success Center offers a variety of support services, including appointment and drop-in tutoring, the Writing Center, academic success meetings, and much more. 

Perhaps over the last year you’ve had time to reflect and are considering an alternative academic pathway. Advisors in the Office for Academic & Pre-Professional Advising (OAPA) welcome the opportunity to discuss your academic plans, including any potential major changes you are considering. 

Additionally, consider attending the  4th Annual Major Event, virtually, on October 20th. This is great opportunity to further explore your major options, or connect with faculty & staff in your selected academic department. 

Connect with other students in a way that feels right to you. 

Building relationships with your peers provides you with an invaluable support network as you navigate back onto campus.  

One way to do this is by joining a student organization. This year’s Involvement Fest , on September 9th, is offered in a hybrid format with both a virtual and in-person component. 

If you are living on campus, The Office of Residential Life is hosting a variety of programs throughout the semester. There is also programming through the Off Campus Student Services offices for commuter students.  

Still unsure about larger gatherings? Don’t hesitate to keep up with virtual study groups, video game sessions or outdoor meetings with a few close friends. 

One Final Note: Please call or check a campus office’s website prior to visiting in-person to check their current protocols. While all offices are physically open this fall, some may be operating in a different capacity due to social distancing measures. 

Ultimately, give yourself the chance the take this transition at a pace that feels right to you. In trusting yourself, you are sure to adapt well to the return to campus. We hope your semester is a great one!