More than 1000 guests visited campus on Saturday, April 25th, for Just for Juniors (and Sophomores, Too!)—a day designed to help them explore possibilities and begin envisioning their futures at UMBC. While the program is geared toward juniors, it also welcomed younger students, with 91 high school sophomores and even 17 high school freshmen in attendance—an early sign of growing interest from students eager to start their college search sooner.
From the start, the focus was clear: this wasn’t just about choosing a major, but about exploring interests and understanding how those interests can evolve into meaningful academic and career paths. Through student panels, information sessions, and campus tours, attendees connected with current students, faculty, and staff who emphasized curiosity, flexibility, and the value of interdisciplinary learning.
That sense of connection stood out immediately. As one attendee shared, “The student tour guides were amazing and my student connected with them.” Another noted, “The diversity of student panelists… their candor and the supporting adults” made the experience especially impactful. Across the board, visitors highlighted the welcoming atmosphere, with one remarking on “the friendliness and availability of the students and staff,” and another simply pointing to “the diversity and kindness of everyone I encountered.”
A standout addition this year was the expanded Academic Majors and Opportunities Fair, held in the Retriever Activities Center (RAC). With a thoughtfully designed fair map guiding students through a wide range of programs and resources, the space became a hub of exploration. Departments showcased not only traditional majors but also the many ways students can combine disciplines—bringing UMBC’s interdisciplinary approach to life.
For many, the fair was the highlight of the day. “The Academic Majors and Opportunities Fair was excellent and gave us an overview of the strengths of each major,” one attendee shared, while another noted, “I was able to explore majors that I have not considered previously.” Direct conversations helped students see new possibilities and better understand how their strengths could translate into academic pathways.
Beyond academics, the event offered access to a broader sense of campus life. The timing alongside Quadmania gave students a chance to experience UMBC’s vibrant community firsthand. As one guest put it, “Having the event during Quadmania allowed my student to get an inside glimpse of campus life at UMBC.”
The impact of the day was clear. More than 80% of attendees reported that they were more likely to apply to UMBC after participating—reflecting not just a successful event, but a meaningful shift in how students see themselves and their futures.
Perhaps most importantly, students and families left feeling both informed and empowered. “There was no pressure… it was inviting without being overbearing,” one attendee shared, while another described the experience as “very comprehensive—perfect to give my son a true glimpse of what is to come.”
Overall, the day captured what makes UMBC distinctive: a place where students are encouraged not just to choose a path, but to explore, connect, and ultimately shape one of their own.
Just for Juniors (And Sophomores, Too!) is an event planned by the Campus Visits and Events Team in Undergraduate Admissions and Orientation: Jennifer Riehl, Gina Ralston, and Kim Meyers.