The University of Maryland - College Park

Coming from California, this school system is much different than what I had been exposed to my whole educational background. The following information is strictly for those to not become shocked like I was to the point of leaving this university immediately. I came back to school at 22 years of age from Santa Monica College in California, all UCs accept courses from this college. UMD did not accept many of my core courses such as English and other communication courses. If UCLA accepts my courses why not UMD? So yes, it felt like a scam to have to re-do these basic courses. But the number one factor that drew the line for me was the fact that many professors utilized Teacher Assistants to lecture, give assignments, and grade. You would see your professor about once/twice a week or so, and were obligated to sit in a lecture with a TA at least twice a week. In my personal experience, the TAs I had were incapable of this role. As a paying customer, 10k per semester with an education of this quality is absolutely not worth it, this is my opinion. I felt that my needs were absolutely ignored.

1st Year Female -- Class 2018

Campus Aesthetics: A, Education Quality: F

If you come from a traditional background, you could very well enjoy this school. If you are a first-generation college student however, attending this University will be a great challenge... although that can be said about attending any college. However, this University especially is a machine, large and ruthless. You need to advocate for yourself at all times on this campus. Administration, departments and within the University can get pretty scattered and disorganized; communication between them is completely your own responsibility as well as knowing the policies of the individual departments or programs which may conflict but they will not tell you. Actively advocating for yourself in every step is essential in order to progress at this University.

3rd Year Male -- Class 2019

Scholastic Success: A, Innovation: F