Most of your instructors will probably be using Blackboard to deliver content. Make sure you are familiar with Blackboard, and are able to access it regularly to complete your assignments. Most instructors have contacted their classes to let them know what to expect moving forward. If you haven't received a notice from you instructor yet, look at the announcements page in Blackboard for that class. If you still don't see something, please be patient. This is a big change for everyone, and some instructors may still be deciding how to approach their material online.

Advising will be conducted remotely as well. The original timeline is still in place, so make sure you set up a virtual appointment with your advisor if you have not yet done so. 

UMBC is still open, even though campus is not widely in use. If you need any kind of UMBC services look for a way to contact that office through email. Some offices on campus will remain accessible, such as University Health Services, The Counseling Center (video chat appointments), and Retriever Essentials. Please do not come to campus though unless you need these few resources, and always make an appointment ahead of time. Most buildings will be locked, and only a few essential employees will be there. Almost all employees will be working from home for the rest of the semester. If you need assistance with anything feel free to contact your advisor or me. We can either help you or send you to someone who can help you. 

It is possible that some of you will become ill or will be taking care of family members that are ill. Please let your instructor know as soon as possible if this is the case. You also may have other things, like family or work take your attention. This is to be expected. Again, just let your instructor know. We will be adding back-up instructors to each class. This should help to minimize disruptions if one of us gets ill. We also realize that the internet and Blackboard will cause problems. Don't stress about this, it won't be perfect, but we will all do our best.

If you do not have adequate equipment to participate in online learning, please let us know ASAP! I do think the University is currently trying to address this issue. This could include hardware, like a laptop, or a reliable internet connection. This could also be because the whole family is home sharing limited electronic resources.

Our interns should be in contact with Professor Cozart. We are working to find ways for you to complete your internship remotely, or to complete your hours when restrictions are lifted. Please keep in mind that we do not know when restrictions will be lifted. Summer internships are pending at this point. 

Lastly, I expect you have heard that the previously scheduled graduation ceremony will not be happening in May. I don't yet know if the University is making plans for some other type of ceremony. HAPP is so very proud of you and all your accomplishments! We will figure out some way to recognize your graduation. I don't yet know what this will look like, but you will have a unique graduation experience!

Enjoy your last few days of break (with social distance). Let us know if we can help in any way. Wash your hands!

-Katie Birger

HAPP Program Director