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

Now is the time for students to gain experience in a field of interest. Internships, research, and other valuable experiences often lead to a job after graduation! The following is a useful list of suggestions to keep moving forward on the four-year career plan.

Throughout their third year, students should focus on staying on track, stepping into opportunities, and gearing up for their Senior year and beyond. Below is a list of opportunities for how your student can accomplish these goals throughout their third year at Maryland. We encourage you to discuss these possibilities for growth and exploration with your student.

Staying on Track

Major decisions are made, the first two years are over, and there is a renewed sense of accomplishment for many students during their third year. This is often the time that students take time to explore and push their own boundaries, whether it’s trying out a new career through an internship, taking on more leadership positions both on and off-campus, or studying abroad. At this time in their academic career, students are often enrolling in more rigorous and specialized courses and perhaps exploring ideas for their Senior Capstone research project.

Resources abound to help students explore career fields and professions. Even if students have decided on a major, they may be trying to decide what they want to do. The following is a helpful list for the second year.

Connection, direction and reflection are the keys for a successful second year. Below is a list of suggestions for how your student can actively engage in these themes throughout their second year at UMD. We encourage you to discuss these opportunities for advancement and enrichment with your student.

Connection

The second year can be a time of uncertainty and students may experience a “second year slump.” And it’s no wonder!  Second year students experience a whole new set of stressors than they did during the first year. The thrill of the first year has faded and your student may be questioning some of the choices they made, they may think that everyone else has their future figured out, and they may feel added pressure from you to choose a specific path. And in the midst of it all, some may wonder if UMD is the right place for them.

The first year at UMD is the perfect time to become familiar with the University Career Center & The President’s Promise. The following is a list of suggestions for your student.