An incoming transfer student is ready for change
Ashley Parks
Staff Writer
Danielle McGrogan is a transfer student from CCBC who is here to study Global Studies and Sociology. She feels her classes will be an exciting challenge and she appreciates the faculty and students who welcome her to UMBC this semester.
There is a first day for everyone. We come from many places: different institutions, different towns, different states and different countries. Now, we have arrived at UMBC. Despite our various backgrounds, we all have similar first experiences getting to know the campus and its people.
Danielle McGrogan is a transfer student from the Community College of Baltimore County. It was there that she received an associate degree in recreation, parks and tourism. This is her first semester as a UMBC student. Now a global studies and sociology double major, she feels right at home on campus. McGrogan said, “Everyone is extremely welcoming, is interested in getting to know you, and really cares about creating an awesome environment where everyone can thrive.”
McGrogan expresses an appreciation for the professors here at UMBC in particular. She said, “If I could pinpoint one thing about my professors that I like most, it’s probably how passionate they are about their areas of expertise. They make a difference in how they present the subject and material.” She feels the class assignments offer a challenge through which she can develop her academic thoughts and ideals.
As part of the language requirement, McGrogan is taking Arabic. She hopes to be able to study abroad in Jordan or Morocco in the coming year. She also shows an interest in the many student organizations and clubs available on campus. When asked about joining one, she said, “With over 100 clubs and organizations on campus, it’s hard not to! I’m really excited about joining the Global Brigades and Amnesty International UMBC chapters.”
During this semester, she is interning at the International Rescue Committee in downtown Baltimore. She hopes to continue participating in many humanitarian efforts and eventually take part in the Fulbright Scholar Program and Peace Corps after graduation.
To all new and incoming transfer students, McGrogan offers some words of advice. She says, “Follow your passion! Take advantage of all of the resources at UMBC and work towards being successful at what you love.”
As the semester continues on, everyone will find themselves settling into the campus and their new classes. As they do, they should remember to enjoy their time here at UMBC. Take advantage of every opportunity that arises and look into all that the college has to offer. Each new experience comes with new knowledge and skills that will certainly benefit the future.
