What We Would Have Done Differently

If I could do one thing differently in my first semester at UMD, I would go back and take advantage of the entertainment UMD offers. The Kirby Program Board sponsors many events around campus. There are free concerts in the ballroom, UMD Idol, open mic night, Kirby Game Night, Grocery Bingo, even movies in Boh 90. There are also various meetings, discussions, clubs, and organizations that students can attend and participate. Yet more events include Hemp Night, Casino Night, and Singled Out (The Dating Game), and the Kirby Game Room has hours when anyone can go have some fun. With all of these options, it's hard not to find something you're interested in! I went to a few of the concerts, and had a great time with my friends. I wish I would've gone to more. These events don't empty your wallet, either. Many of them are free, and those that aren't are cheap! So when you're walking to class, don't just stare at the ground. Take a look at the signs, and you'll find a great opportunity to have some fun, relax, and meet new people! ~Cindy

If I could change one thing about my first semester here at UMD I would have lived on campus instead of at home. Living at home has been great because I like being with my family. But there are several reasons why I wish I would have chosen to live on campus. The first reason is so that I could have gotten more involved with activities on campus. There are open mic nights and talks that go on in the Kirby Center a lot of nights during the week. There are also many clubs to join and volunteer opportunities. I could still go to these and get involved with the student community but it has been a little more difficult because of commuting. With having everything available right on campus, it makes it a little easier to get involved. The second reason I would have lived on campus is to meet new people. Living, at home I’ve been able to meet a lot of great people but not many real close friends. Being in the same classes gives us a chance to talk but not so much outside of class. I think spending time outside of class with friends builds a stronger friendship. And the last reason I would have lived on campus is to get the experience of living on my own; of being independent. Living in the dorms is not exactly the same as living on your own but it gives you the sense of living on your own and you gain more responsibility and independence. Living on campus would have been a great experience. Becky LaPlante

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