College is a new experience for everyone, but with the help of our alumni we can make it a little easier for our newest Retrievers! Take a look at these suggestions to make  the transition to life at UMBC even easier. 

1. Your college experience is what you make it! Stretch your boundaries, get out there, get involved! ~Mitali Parmar ’13, health administration & policy and sociology

2. Go to things you don’t think you’ll like. The best friends you’ll make are the ones who aren’t exactly like you! ~Arooj Rana ’06, psychology
   
   
3. I always wish I studied abroad in undergrad. Make sure you do something to extend your academics: good internship, research, etc. ~Christine Osazuwa ’11, interdisciplinary studies

4. Don’t ever be afraid to ask questions – if you have a question, I am sure that others have the same question and are too afraid to ask it. ~Christina Huynh ’11, information systems management
   
   
5. UMBC has a lot of awesome professors who really care about undergraduates, which is something that can’t be found everywhere. Take advantage of this by getting to know some of your favorite professors. Many professors at UMBC are delighted to have students stop by office hours, if only to chat about what was discussed in class that week. Professors can serve as professional mentors even after you graduate. ~Jennifer Mercer ’12, interdisciplinary studies

6. Balance and moderation is my tip. Freshman year is a great year to begin to make friendships that should carry throughout your college experience. Don’t be afraid to join and try new groups, meet people you may not have ever interacted with in high school. However, don’t over extend yourself. It’s so important to maintain a good balance with your school work and classes. A few mistakes early on can and will affect your other years. ~Nate Dissmeyer ’07, information systems management

7. It’s totally okay to change your major, change your career plan, and change your roommates. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths; you’re going to be okay. ~Jess El-Zeftawy ’08, political science, ’12 M.P.P., public policy

8. Start looking for internships NOW! and eat on the first floor of the Administration building. You’ll avoid the Commons madness. ~Amanda Winters ’11, media and communication studies
   
   
9. There will be people here that like you for you so don’t be afraid to express yourself. ~Patricia Reynolds ’09, English

Join the conversation on Twitter: #RetrieverWisdom

Name: Olivia Wolfe
Educational Background: Bachelor’s and Master’s degree (Counseling and Personnel Services) from University of Maryland, College Park
Hometown: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Current role: As Coordinator of Academic Affairs, Olivia oversees academic services staff of the department, oversees course scheduling for the department, coordinates adjunct instructor and TA/RA hiring, addresses undergraduate and graduate student concerns, assists with special events in the college, coordinates administration of the Promotion and Tenure process, coordinates prospective faculty interviews, and room scheduling.

Olivia is originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico. She joined UMBC’s CSEE Department in January of 2014. Prior to her arrival at UMBC, Olivia worked as the Undergraduate Student Services Coordinator in the Philip Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland, College Park. When not working, Olivia volunteers with a fire department, a missing persons search and rescue group, and a large breed dog rescue. She also enjoys photography, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Name: Yemisi Aina
Educational Background: Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from UMBC.
Current role: As a program management specialist for the undergraduate division of CSEE, Yemisi serves as the primary scheduling coordinator for the department. She also acts as a content editor for the department website, and provides administrative support to faculty, staff and students.

Yemisi joined UMBC’s CSEE Department in February of 2014. Prior to her arrival at UMBC, Yemisi worked for the Howard County Library. When not working, she enjoys reading, watching movies, and going to concerts. She is also interested in photography and web development.