Keys to Success

Finalization, reflection, and transition are the cornerstones of success for fourth year. Below is a list of suggestions for how your student can actively engage in creating their own fourth year experience during their final year at UMD. As a parent, we encourage you to use this list to help open up a  dialogue with your student about the opportunities and possibilities at Maryland and beyond.

Finalization

• Apply for graduation
• Participate in “fourth year bucket list” events, including Senior Week and Byrd Beach
• Seek post-graduation service opportunities, such Peace Corps or Teach for America
• Attend Calvert Cotillion, the fourth year formal dance
• Attend the President’s Reception for Graduates
• Prepare for main Commencement and individual college/school ceremonies

Reflection

• Senior Council provides programming to inform, involve, and unify the fourth year class
• Take advantage of the “Backpack to Briefcase” series of free workshops about transition life skills for fourth year students, including cooking, financial literacy, and more
• The Carapace student organization links students to the Alumni Association – students get a free one-year membership upon graduation!

Transition

• (Re)take graduate school entrance exams, including the GRE, GMAT, MCAT, or LSAT
• Visit the Counseling Center for assistance with graduation transition or job search anxiety
• Continue to visit the University Career Center & The President’s Promise
• Attend Career Fairs, mock interviews, and employer spotlights
• Continue meeting with an academic advisor
• Complete student loan exit counseling with Student Financial Aid

Helpful Links
Commencement
Student Financial Aid