Resources for Connection and Wellbeing
Welcome from the Dean of Students. You Belong Here.
Hello Retrievers!
I am Dr. Jake Diaz, UMBC’s new Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students. My family and I moved to Baltimore in June, and I could not be more excited to welcome you to campus for the start of the academic year!
My team and I are here to ensure you feel supported, included, and empowered throughout your journey at UMBC. We operate on the foundational belief that every student belongs here, and we aim to provide a community filled with opportunities and resources to help you thrive.
Here are a few key ways to jump right into campus life and find your support system this semester:
Get Connected and Get Involved
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Welcome, Retrievers! I’m thrilled to experience my very first Welcome, Retrievers, Please stop by and say hello to me and our team at upcoming events!
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Involvement Fest: With over 250 graduate and undergraduate student organizations at UMBC, this is the best spot to meet student leaders, find your crew, and grab some free goodies.
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Events Calendar: Keep an eye on the calendar to stay in the loop on activities happening all year long.
Set Yourself Up for Academic Success
Navigating university-level coursework is a team effort. Take advantage of campus learning resources early in the semester:
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Academic Success Center: The central hub for peer tutoring, Supplemental Instruction (SI), and academic coaching to help undergraduates build strong study skills.
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Academic Advising Center: Helps undergraduates stay on track with degree requirements, course selection, and academic planning.
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PROMISE: Helps graduate students build academic skills, social supports, and career networks.
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The Writing Center: Offers all students one-on-one assistance with writing assignments at any stage of the drafting process.
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Graduate Student Association Writing Advisor: Assists graduate students with any writing project/assignment across all curricula.
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Faculty office hours: Make it a goal to connect with your professors! Using office hours early and often is one of the best ways to get the most out of your classes.
Resources devoted to your success and wellbeing
Navigating college life isn't always easy, and we encourage you to ask for help when you need it. Please connect with your faculty and with us as staff. Our campus network is here to support you:
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Retriever CARE: Offers personalized care coordination, support for students in distress, resource referrals, and ongoing advocacy.
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Essential Needs & Connections/Retriever Essentials: Helps students access basic necessities like housing and food security, including the free store in The Commons.
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Student Conduct & Community Standards: Promotes a safe, fair, and respectful environment where everyone can learn. We help uphold our shared values of integrity, accountability, and mutual respect.
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Veteran & Military-Affiliated Services: Provides tailored guidance, support, and engagement for military-connected students.
Where to find us
If you ever need support and aren't sure where to turn, visit us in The Center for Well-Being (Room 102) or email deanofstudents@umbc.edu.
Fun challenge: If you’ve read down to this sentence, drop me a quick email at the address above and I will host you for a cup of coffee or tea at Starbucks or Dunkin. I’d love to know what you’re most looking forward to this semester.
I am incredibly proud to be a Retriever, and I wish you all the best as we kick off this academic year together.
Go Retrievers!
Dr. Jake Diaz
Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students