<p>Some of your other questions…Political science/int’l relations program(s) at UMD are very strong, and the proximity to internship opportunities in DC is a real plus. One previous frequent-poster’s son did an internship on Capitol Hill as part of his Scholars program, and loved it. Getting into DC is extremely easy, with a free (frequent) shuttle from Stamp (student union) to the metro station. As mom above mentioned, it all depends on the students’ (and their friends’) interests. Both of my D’s went into DC much more frequently early on as UMD students, and not as often later.</p>
<p>The language department has some great programs and professors. IMO, the advising and overall organization of the department leaves a lot to be desired. In the end, D1 (with a minor in German) and D2 (with a major in Spanish Lit) had excellent classes. They both also lived (live) in the Language House, which contributed a TON to their foreign language experience. D2 came in to UMD with the max AP credit for Spanish, and had to be waitlisted for multiple classes in Spanish, but they all worked out—just a bit of extra hassle each time she registered until now, when she’s got the hours to have top priority when registering. </p>
<p>Study abroad options are wide and varied. Neither of my 2 ended up doing a study abroad semesters, as they both had double degrees they were pursuing, but both had several friends who had exceptional experiences. </p>
<p>Creative writing opportunities are strong at UMD. Next to the Language House is the Writer’s House, another living/learning opportunity devoted to writers. The Journalism school also gets good publicity…again, the proximity to DC is a big plus here.</p>
<p>I agree with what mom^ says about relationships with professors. It is up to the student as to how well they know their professor and vice/versa. Especially for the first half of the semester, almost no students show up for office hours. As a freshman, all of D1’s professors knew her by name, except one old dude who taught an honors seminar and who announced at the beginning that he had no intention and would make no effort to learn anyone’s name! This was a class of 18 kids (and was the only honors seminar that she didn’t LOVE). One of her profs (class of about 150 students) first semester became a trusted advisor, mentor, and she did honors research with him her last 2 years at UMD. (He was also instrumental in recommendations for internships and grad school). All this started from her introducing herself to him early and setting herself apart in class. Both D’s found that they could be anonymous when they chose to be… (with professors or classes that they chose to stay under the radar on), but it was their choice. </p>
<p>Hope this helps. Especially for someone who isn’t sure what they want to do (which turns out to be a big percentage of college students, based on the # that change their majors)…UMD is an awesome choice, because the sheer size allows for a wide variety of choices, and UMD has established strengths in many different areas. Good luck to your son!</p>