The primary goal of Off-Campus Student Services is to offer ongoing services, programs, academic and social support, and educational opportunities to help off-campus students successfully navigate UMBC and life after college. Learn more about us on our Website: http://www.umbc.edu/ocss/
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
It's easy being green
It's Commuter Week, and OCSS is going green! We have compostable plates, napkins, cups and cutlery at all of our events this week. Now we need you to do your part; when you come to our events and enjoy some yummy, FREE food, make sure you dispose of your waste in the bins marked Compost.
Commuter Week!
Hi Everyone!
Commuter Week is here! We have an exciting week planned; be sure to stop by. You don't want to miss it! Commuter week is a great way to learn more about the services we provide and to have FUN! Hope to see you there!
Here is a detailed schedule of the week: http://umbc.edu/ocss/CommuterWeek.pdf
-Salma
Commuter Week is here! We have an exciting week planned; be sure to stop by. You don't want to miss it! Commuter week is a great way to learn more about the services we provide and to have FUN! Hope to see you there!
Here is a detailed schedule of the week: http://umbc.edu/ocss/CommuterWeek.pdf
-Salma
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Veterans, Food, and Volleyball
Hello UMBC students,
Just in case you didn't know, UMBC's Commuter Week is coming up soon. The dates that it will take place during are the 28th of October - the 1st of November. That means next week guys!
During this week we will be having great events and activities all around the campus so keep an eye out! You can look forward to: Transportation Fair, Halloween Shuttle Decorating, Commuter Game Night, Pub Trivia, and a lot more! You can get a list of the events and times http://umbc.edu/ocss/CommuterWeek.pdf
The events that you will see me at are...
Women’s Volleyball vs SUNY Binghamton:
From 6pm-9pm on November 1st; we will be meeting in the Commuter Lounge where we will be giving out FREE PIZZA and PRIZES. To make things even better TRUE GRIT and the Women's Volleyball Coach will be making a guest appearance to take pictures and hang out with us for a bit. Then we'll head over to the RAC for the 7pm start.
Commuters Care: Vets Service Project:
We will create hand-made thank you cards for returning veterans from 12pm-1pm, November 1st. These cards will be distributed to veterans at BWI by Operation Welcome Home Maryland. So stop by, socialize, and make a quick card to help show our support! You can find more information about where and why we are sending these cards here at http://www.operationwelcomehomemd.org/
Veterans Food Drive:
We will also be having a food drive for the entire week where you can drop off non perishables and canned food to send over to the troops. You can either drop them off at our office located in the Commons right by the Bookstore or food for the designated food drive boxes that we will place in the Commons, Administration, University Center, and the AOK Library. You can find more information of the organization that we are donating to visit http://www.baltimorestation.org/index.html
Just in case you didn't know, UMBC's Commuter Week is coming up soon. The dates that it will take place during are the 28th of October - the 1st of November. That means next week guys!
During this week we will be having great events and activities all around the campus so keep an eye out! You can look forward to: Transportation Fair, Halloween Shuttle Decorating, Commuter Game Night, Pub Trivia, and a lot more! You can get a list of the events and times http://umbc.edu/ocss/CommuterWeek.pdf
The events that you will see me at are...
Women’s Volleyball vs SUNY Binghamton:
From 6pm-9pm on November 1st; we will be meeting in the Commuter Lounge where we will be giving out FREE PIZZA and PRIZES. To make things even better TRUE GRIT and the Women's Volleyball Coach will be making a guest appearance to take pictures and hang out with us for a bit. Then we'll head over to the RAC for the 7pm start.
Commuters Care: Vets Service Project:
We will create hand-made thank you cards for returning veterans from 12pm-1pm, November 1st. These cards will be distributed to veterans at BWI by Operation Welcome Home Maryland. So stop by, socialize, and make a quick card to help show our support! You can find more information about where and why we are sending these cards here at http://www.operationwelcomehomemd.org/
Veterans Food Drive:
We will also be having a food drive for the entire week where you can drop off non perishables and canned food to send over to the troops. You can either drop them off at our office located in the Commons right by the Bookstore or food for the designated food drive boxes that we will place in the Commons, Administration, University Center, and the AOK Library. You can find more information of the organization that we are donating to visit http://www.baltimorestation.org/index.html
Monday, October 21, 2013
Transfer News & Advice
Hi everyone! I hope everyone did well on their midterms and are starting to be able to relax a bit!
Can you believe that it is almost time to register for next semester? It seems like only yesterday we were just starting classes for this semester!
If you are confused about the whole course registration process, DON'T FRET! The Transfer Student Network has put together a workshop to answer all your questions about course registration! Our event will be taking place today, October 23 at 12:00pm in Engineering 333. We will have handouts and other information about course registration. We will also be providing lunch for you to grab on the way out!
If you cannot make the workshop, no worries! There are plenty of additional resources that you are able to utilize. The registrar website is a wonderful website to go to. It has a lot of information about registration and classes. One of the most important worksheets that is listed is the Spring 2014 registration times. If you click or copy the link, http://registrar.umbc.edu/files/2012/06/Spring2014RegApps.pdf , you should be able to see your registration date and time based on the number of credits prior to this semester. That is extremely important because the credits are based on what you have already completed, not how many you are in the process of right now.
If you have additional questions, it is important you speak with your advisor. He or she can help you decide what classes are best and how you can achieve your goals.
Another resource is speaking to fellow classmates. They can help you and give you advice on the difficulty of each class and ways to achieve success in those classes. Just remember that every one is different and the level of difficulty will be different, as well!
So, do not fret about course registration! You are not alone and there are plenty of resources for you. Good luck!
Photo taken from http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/834142/umbc.jpg
Can you believe that it is almost time to register for next semester? It seems like only yesterday we were just starting classes for this semester!
If you are confused about the whole course registration process, DON'T FRET! The Transfer Student Network has put together a workshop to answer all your questions about course registration! Our event will be taking place today, October 23 at 12:00pm in Engineering 333. We will have handouts and other information about course registration. We will also be providing lunch for you to grab on the way out!
If you cannot make the workshop, no worries! There are plenty of additional resources that you are able to utilize. The registrar website is a wonderful website to go to. It has a lot of information about registration and classes. One of the most important worksheets that is listed is the Spring 2014 registration times. If you click or copy the link, http://registrar.umbc.edu/files/2012/06/Spring2014RegApps.pdf , you should be able to see your registration date and time based on the number of credits prior to this semester. That is extremely important because the credits are based on what you have already completed, not how many you are in the process of right now.
If you have additional questions, it is important you speak with your advisor. He or she can help you decide what classes are best and how you can achieve your goals.
Another resource is speaking to fellow classmates. They can help you and give you advice on the difficulty of each class and ways to achieve success in those classes. Just remember that every one is different and the level of difficulty will be different, as well!
So, do not fret about course registration! You are not alone and there are plenty of resources for you. Good luck!
Photo taken from http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/834142/umbc.jpg
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Looking for a good time? OktoberFeast is the way to go!
Hey there commuters!
We are half way through the semester and with all the mid terms and late nights I bet all of you are craving for a getaway! Even if its for an hour!
Well it's your lucky day because we the Commuter Connections Team from Off Campus Student Service are bringing you an hour of awesome at OktoberFeast! German themed food, design your own pretzel bar, and as always lots of gifts and give-ways await your presence!
It gets even better! Wait for it....because we will be having UMBC Registered Dietitian Carlene Thomas with us to get you guys some tips on everyday healthy eating. She'll be joined by UMBC Transit representatives, there to answer any of the transportation questions you may have about using UMBC Transit or MTA busses.
The event is this Friday, October 18th, in Lower Flat Tuesdays during the free hour.
Hope to see you all of you there having a good time!
-Safa Zahangir
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Hump Day!
It's Hump Day!
But this is no ordinary Hump Day. This is the Hump Day of the WHOLE SEMESTER! That's right. We're 8 weeks into our 16 week semester. Since you go to UMBC, you probably know that reduces to 1/2, which means that we are precisely halfway through this semester.
Let that sink in. Halfway through.
Just think; 8 short weeks ago, you were derping around campus asking, "Where is Lecture Hall 1??"
You were also trying to look cool because you had a screenshot of your schedule on your phone and you were pretending to be texting while you were actually desperately searching for the location of your class. It's ok, I was doing that too.
So, let me be the first to say: Congratulations! You have survived half the semester! That is an achievement worth roughly 1/16 of your diploma.
So, with that in mind, don't let the second half of your semester go to waste! If you are not yet involved in some community on campus, I highly encourage you to take that first step! Here are a couple ways you can do that:
- Good Morning Commuters! Every Tuesday from 8:30am-10:30am on Commons Mainstreet.
- Transfer Student Network Workshop: Course Registration Advising from Oct 23, 12:00-12:45 in ENG 333. (Free lunch!)
- OR join us for any of these great Commuter Week events! Download this very flyer!
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Homecoming Highlights
Did you get a chance to participate in Homecoming Week!?*
If not, that's quite alright. With midterms approaching, I and the rest of the OCSS office understand the long nights in the library and how much you value your sleep. For my post today I just wanted to share a few things from Homecoming Week, so you know what all the buzz was about. Perhaps next year, you will be able to take a study break and join in on the fun!

UMBC Men's Soccer came to a draw V. Albany after double overtime with score 0-0.
Photo Cred: UMBC Athletics
UMBC Homecoming Bonfire in Erickson Field. One of the most anticipated homecoming events.
Photo Cred: (seb)
Homecoming Comedian, Nick Offerman took the stage (then took his shirt off).
Photo Cred: Emma Hagen's IG
These are only a few of the highlighted homecoming events, but feel free to comment below and share some of your favorite events! How can UMBC make homecoming more spectacular next year?
*Note: Commuter Week begins Oct. 28th. Hit the books early so you can join us that week for activities, games, prizes and possibly free food.....
Monday, October 14, 2013
Waiting for the bus
Before I was able to carpool to UMBC this year, I had to take the metro bus everyday just to get to campus, and then sometimes I would take the bus back home. From where I live, it normally would take about an hour to an hour fifteen minutes to commute to UMBC.
So you're probably wondering why and how I was able to pull this off my freshman year, because getting up at 5am or 7am just to leave to go to the station is pretty intense, let alone with everything else that follows right afterward. The answer is simple, I had a motivation and time management to help me, a couple of skills that maybe can help you out as you continue along your UMBC Career. I mean if I was late and didn't leave on time, I would not only miss the train, but the bus as well and that would hinder some of my free time that I had before classes.
If you're planning on commuting with the MTA Bus or Train, keep a couple things in mind:
So you're probably wondering why and how I was able to pull this off my freshman year, because getting up at 5am or 7am just to leave to go to the station is pretty intense, let alone with everything else that follows right afterward. The answer is simple, I had a motivation and time management to help me, a couple of skills that maybe can help you out as you continue along your UMBC Career. I mean if I was late and didn't leave on time, I would not only miss the train, but the bus as well and that would hinder some of my free time that I had before classes.
If you're planning on commuting with the MTA Bus or Train, keep a couple things in mind:
- Make sure you know what time the bus leaves/arrives at your stop. Pay attention to the bus number and the destination or you may accidentally miss it.
- Have something to do while waiting for the bus and waiting to arrive at your stop. Listening to music is good, doing some work/studying is good too, and maybe taking a nap if you're wanting to catch up with some sleep. Though I will advise you to make sure you wake up before arriving at your stop!
Friday, October 11, 2013
OKtoberFeast!
Hey All!
Our last Commuter Connections event was great! We had a lot of people attend, and pretty much everyone left with a full stomach-- or at least a full bag with information from some important campus resources: Study Abroad, Health Services, (seb), and The Shriver Center. PNC was awesome to come out as well, and for giving us those awesome draw string bags. I actually got one too and have been using it everyday.
But now that the weather is cooling down we're going to take a step back from the warm summer themes like the Survive the Semester's Island theme and get a little serious. That's because our next theme is OktoberFeast! Okay so it's not really that serious, but a change in themes is pretty serious to us!
Come out to OktoberFeast on Oktober 18th during free hour. That's Friday, Oktober 18th at 12pm-1pm. It's the same drill as last time, but with a German, fall twist to it. We'll have prizes, giveaways, and of course free food--specifically, a pretzel bar! Custom design your own pretzel! Where else can you do that? No where else except OCSS Commuter Connections.
Hope everyone's semester is going well, and talk to you later!
Our last Commuter Connections event was great! We had a lot of people attend, and pretty much everyone left with a full stomach-- or at least a full bag with information from some important campus resources: Study Abroad, Health Services, (seb), and The Shriver Center. PNC was awesome to come out as well, and for giving us those awesome draw string bags. I actually got one too and have been using it everyday.
But now that the weather is cooling down we're going to take a step back from the warm summer themes like the Survive the Semester's Island theme and get a little serious. That's because our next theme is OktoberFeast! Okay so it's not really that serious, but a change in themes is pretty serious to us!
Come out to OktoberFeast on Oktober 18th during free hour. That's Friday, Oktober 18th at 12pm-1pm. It's the same drill as last time, but with a German, fall twist to it. We'll have prizes, giveaways, and of course free food--specifically, a pretzel bar! Custom design your own pretzel! Where else can you do that? No where else except OCSS Commuter Connections.
Hope everyone's semester is going well, and talk to you later!
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Communication is Key
I’m really into people watching. I like observing the
different behaviors people have whether if it is repetition, odd quirks, or
commonalities between people. I get to see about 180 people every Tuesday
morning by working for Good Morning Commuters which is a lot of observing for
me to do when I’m not serving food. I know personally, I’m always concerned on
getting to Point B from Point A, but I’m never paying attention to anything but
my phone when getting to Point B. I’m on my phone checking e-mails or texting
co-workers about an event when I’m in that transition from Point A to Point B.
The other Tuesday at GMC, I went to a table with two girls
who did not know each other and were on their phones. I just asked them general
questions such as what their names were, what year they are, what their major
in. They were both are into Psychology and started talking about internships
they both had and realized they both had the same experiences in different offices.
Since that one GMC early in the semester, I have seen those two sitting at a
table and eating breakfast together every Tuesday.
We’re in the midst of an age where people are on their
phones talking to people instead of getting together in person to talk to each
other. We’re on our phones constantly, we’re not paying attention to our surroundings,
and we’re not taking the time to realize where we are in our lives and take it
all in.
Next time you’re walking from one class to another or from
your car to your class, make sure you stop and smell the roses (or feed the
squirrels...or don't) and say hi to a friend!
Thursday, October 3, 2013
RAC renovations beginning
If you've been in the weight room at UMBC, you probably
understand that it needs work. A lot of the machines are old or not working, there’s
not nearly enough space, and the entire area seems dirty. However, it appears
that the university has finally approved renovations.
Within a few weeks, there
will be a whole new weight room. According to SGA’s Facebook page, renovations
costs will total $115,000 and will include a number of new machines and
equipment. A list of the new equipment can be found on this discussion on
myUMBC here: http://my.umbc.edu/discussions/9240.
In the short term, this means that if you want to exercise over the next 3
weeks, you’ll have to use the Michael S. Knapp Training Center (also referred
to by students as the “varsity gym”) on the RAC Arena Track level. The hours
are a little odd and shift from week to week, but they are posted on the
recreation page here: http://my.umbc.edu/groups/recsports.
Additionally, my other job with the RAC Event Staff gave me
the opportunity to help out a bit with the renovations. Working with several others,
I helped remove some of the flooring as well as transporting most of the dumbbells
and plates out. Some pictures are posted below. I for one
cannot wait to see the new room and hope the changes are implemented as
planned.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Updates!
Hey guys,
Happy Wednesday!
Even though the TSN workshops Series is coming to an end, do not worry, we will be having follow up events later in the semester. After the Retriever Ready Celebration, which is on October 9 in Lower Flat Tuesdays, we will be having peer mentoring sessions for students that have any questions or need someone to talk. These sessions will be during our regular workshop time: Wednesdays at Noon in OCSS. If you have any questions or concerns, we are here to help.
I know it is that time of the semester that you are already stressed out from school. Just looking at all the work you have to do this semester is giving you a headache. You many have a gotten back your first exams and they may not have been the grades that you wanted. Do not worry, there is plenty of time to pull up your grades. Never give up, and find ways to get the help you need. Just keep working hard and it will pay off in the end. Time files and before you know it the semester will be over. Just hang in there!
If you need to take your mind of things Homecoming week is almost here! October 7 to October 12.
Be sure to check out these events!
Spirit March
2 – 2:30 p.m.
Men’s Alumni Basketball Reunion
2:30-4 p.m., Flat Tuesdays Upper
Happy Wednesday!
Even though the TSN workshops Series is coming to an end, do not worry, we will be having follow up events later in the semester. After the Retriever Ready Celebration, which is on October 9 in Lower Flat Tuesdays, we will be having peer mentoring sessions for students that have any questions or need someone to talk. These sessions will be during our regular workshop time: Wednesdays at Noon in OCSS. If you have any questions or concerns, we are here to help.
I know it is that time of the semester that you are already stressed out from school. Just looking at all the work you have to do this semester is giving you a headache. You many have a gotten back your first exams and they may not have been the grades that you wanted. Do not worry, there is plenty of time to pull up your grades. Never give up, and find ways to get the help you need. Just keep working hard and it will pay off in the end. Time files and before you know it the semester will be over. Just hang in there!
If you need to take your mind of things Homecoming week is almost here! October 7 to October 12.
Be sure to check out these events!
MONDAY, OCTOBER 7
Homecoming Hype & Food Trucks
12 – 1 p.m, UMBC Quad (rain location: Commons, MainStreet)
12 – 1 p.m, UMBC Quad (rain location: Commons, MainStreet)
Homecoming Info Tables
11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Breezeway
11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Breezeway
Faculty and Staff Social
5 – 6 p.m., Flat Tuesdays, The Commons
5 – 6 p.m., Flat Tuesdays, The Commons
Women’s Soccer v. Vermont
7 p.m., Soccer Field
7 p.m., Soccer Field
Outstanding Alumni of the Year Awards
6:30 p.m. reception, 7:30 p.m. ceremony
Albin O. Kuhn Library & Gallery
Albin O. Kuhn Library & Gallery
Talent Show9 p.m., University Center Ballroom
Big Prize Poetry SLAM!
6-8 p.m., Performing Arts and Humanities Building Atrium
6-8 p.m., Performing Arts and Humanities Building Atrium
Retriever Rally
9 – 10:30 p.m., Retriever Activities Center (RAC)
9 – 10:30 p.m., Retriever Activities Center (RAC)
Support Shriver Center “Stuff a Scion!”
All day, The Commons
All day, The Commons
Rob Magin 5K Dawg Chase
8 a.m., Registration opens; 9 a.m., Race begins; Stadium Lot
8 a.m., Registration opens; 9 a.m., Race begins; Stadium Lot
A Morning with Arrested Development Star Jeffrey Tambor
Breakfast, 9:15 a.m.; Lecture at 10 a.m.; University Center Ballroom
Breakfast, 9:15 a.m.; Lecture at 10 a.m.; University Center Ballroom
Men’s Lacrosse Alumni Game
11 a.m., UMBC Stadium
11 a.m., UMBC Stadium
Community Picnic Lunch with Dr. Hrabowski
11 a.m. – 2 p.m., UMBC Quad
11 a.m. – 2 p.m., UMBC Quad
Women’s Lacrosse Alumnae Game
12:30 p.m., UMBC Stadium
12:30 p.m., UMBC Stadium
Men’s Rugby v. Salisbury
1 p.m., Walker Field
1 p.m., Walker Field
Homecoming Kickball Kup – Students vs. Alumni
1:15 p.m., Erickson Field
1:15 p.m., Erickson Field
Kids Zone
1:00 – 3:00 p.m., SportsZone, The Commons
1:00 – 3:00 p.m., SportsZone, The Commons
Smoothies at Flat Tuesdays
1 – 4 p.m., Flat Tuesdays, Upper Level, The Commons
1 – 4 p.m., Flat Tuesdays, Upper Level, The Commons
Free Game Play
1 – 5 p.m., 2nd Floor, The Commons
1 – 5 p.m., 2nd Floor, The Commons
Tour of Baltimore with the Shriver Center
1:30 – 5 p.m., Bus departs Commons Circle Drive
1:30 – 5 p.m., Bus departs Commons Circle Drive
Spirit March
2 – 2:30 p.m.
Softball Alumnae Game
2 p.m., Softball Stadium
2 p.m., Softball Stadium
Baseball Alumni Game
2 p.m., Alumni Field
2 p.m., Alumni Field
Decorate Pumpkins & Rockets with the Honors College
2 – 4 p.m., Flat Tuesdays Lower Level & Patio
2 – 4 p.m., Flat Tuesdays Lower Level & Patio
Residence Life Community Center Open House
2 – 4 p.m., Community Center
2 – 4 p.m., Community Center
Men’s Alumni Basketball Reunion
2:30-4 p.m., Flat Tuesdays Upper
Men’s Soccer Game v. Albany
2:30p.m., Retriever Soccer Park
2:30p.m., Retriever Soccer Park
Open Pub at Flat Tuesdays
4 – 6:30 p.m., Flat Tuesdays, The Commons
4 – 6:30 p.m., Flat Tuesdays, The Commons
Ice Hockey v. Virginia Tech
4:45 p.m., Reisterstown Sportsplex
4:45 p.m., Reisterstown Sportsplex
Taste of UMBC: Crab Feast
5 – 8 p.m., UMBC Quad
5 – 8 p.m., UMBC Quad
I
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Lambda Phi Alumnae Reunion
5:30 – 8 p.m., Room 329, The Commons
5:30 – 8 p.m., Room 329, The Commons
Student Leader Reunion
7 – 8 p.m., RAC
7 – 8 p.m., RAC
Comedy Show Featuring Nick Offerman of Parks and Recreation
7 p.m. doors, 8 – 9:30 p.m. show, RAC Arena
7 p.m. doors, 8 – 9:30 p.m. show, RAC Arena
CBLA Homecoming Throwback Party
8:30 p.m. – Midnight, Flat Tuesdays, The Commons
8:30 p.m. – Midnight, Flat Tuesdays, The Commons
For more information click this link
Stay Positive!
-Salma
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Study Skills Workshop
Hello there UMBC students! I hope you have been enjoying school so far and getting in enough time to relax and spend some time with friends and family!
Since it is now October, that means that there are fun and exciting events coming up on and off campus. During fall, I always go pumpkin picking and carve pumpkins. Fall is my favorite season because of pumpkin coffee, muffins, apple cider, Halloween, and wearing cute dresses with scarves.
Now that I've listed some of my favorite fall activities, what are yours? Please leave some comments and let OCSS know what some of your favorite things about fall are!
In regard to OCSS and our events, the Transfer Student Network has been working very hard to bring information and fun events for our Transfer students. Tomorrow, October 2nd, is our Study Skills Workshop in the University Center Ballroom Lounge. At this workshop, you will find information on effective studying habits and reducing stress. Since midterms are right around the corner, this workshop will help students understand their study habits and what they can do to achieve their goals in their classes.
Not only will we have excellent information about study skills, we will also have some comfort foods that will ease the minds of our UMBC students! (We won't tell you what we're serving - just come and find out!)
We also will be having a raffle for students who attend our workshop. (Again, you will have to come to find out what the raffle is!)
Our last event will take place next week, October 9th, in Lower Flat Tuesdays. This is our celebratory event and there will be plenty of opportunities to meet fellow transfer students, enjoy some yummy food, and hang out with the TSN staff!
Now that you are informed of the next Transfer Student Network event, here is a wonderful picture of fall.
Since it is now October, that means that there are fun and exciting events coming up on and off campus. During fall, I always go pumpkin picking and carve pumpkins. Fall is my favorite season because of pumpkin coffee, muffins, apple cider, Halloween, and wearing cute dresses with scarves.
Now that I've listed some of my favorite fall activities, what are yours? Please leave some comments and let OCSS know what some of your favorite things about fall are!
In regard to OCSS and our events, the Transfer Student Network has been working very hard to bring information and fun events for our Transfer students. Tomorrow, October 2nd, is our Study Skills Workshop in the University Center Ballroom Lounge. At this workshop, you will find information on effective studying habits and reducing stress. Since midterms are right around the corner, this workshop will help students understand their study habits and what they can do to achieve their goals in their classes.
Not only will we have excellent information about study skills, we will also have some comfort foods that will ease the minds of our UMBC students! (We won't tell you what we're serving - just come and find out!)
We also will be having a raffle for students who attend our workshop. (Again, you will have to come to find out what the raffle is!)
Our last event will take place next week, October 9th, in Lower Flat Tuesdays. This is our celebratory event and there will be plenty of opportunities to meet fellow transfer students, enjoy some yummy food, and hang out with the TSN staff!
Now that you are informed of the next Transfer Student Network event, here is a wonderful picture of fall.
Photo taken from http://www.musingsofamuse.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Discovery-Fall-2013-Collections-605x310.jpg
Monday, September 30, 2013
Bus pass sales start again!

Hey there Commuters!
Time flies fast. With that in mind we are about to reach the end of yet another month, and for all of you MTA commuters it’s time to put $39 on your UMBC Red Card!
Because as promised, Off-Campus Student Services is bringing you monthly MTA passes right on the campus. With a discounted price of only $39, OCSS helps you save $25 off the regular price.
And once purchased you are all set for an entire month!
The
MTA pass can only be purchased with your UMBC Campus (Red) Card. To pay
with your UMBC Campus Card you will need to load your money on the card
using a Campus Card machine. There are plenty of places to find campus card machines. Another convenient way is to go to the Commons Information Center (CIC) and someone there will do it for you!
So Commuters! Let’s not delay anymore, come and get your buss pass from Off-Campus Student Services. For all of you who do not know the location of our office we are right by the bookstore!
So Commuters! Let’s not delay anymore, come and get your buss pass from Off-Campus Student Services. For all of you who do not know the location of our office we are right by the bookstore!
-Safa Zahangir
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Four Weeks In!
Here we are, four weeks into the semester. Exams are starting up, the weather is cooling down, and most of us are ready for the semester to be over.
I get it. It's hard; you have no time for all the clubs you wanted to join at Involvementfest, it's getting harder and harder to coordinate schedules with friends, and you've already missed two assignments. Being a UMBC student is no walk through the breezeway; or, for commuters, it's no drive in the fast lane.
My advice? Re-evaluate your schedule! Look for those awkward gaps where you're on campus for three straight hours and think of how you can use them better. How can you use your drive home more efficiently? You could use that time to plan your day or to mentally review material from class. Or to sing really loudly. Your choice. A half-hour ride on the bus could be a great study time for your language class.
The point is, think intentionally about the habits you are forming. Ask the questions; are they beneficial; efficient; awesome?
So, since you all have so much more free time now, I'm sure that you can make it to our Transfer Student Network Workshops happening within the next couple weeks!
They are all on Wednesday at Free Hour (12:00-1:00)
I get it. It's hard; you have no time for all the clubs you wanted to join at Involvementfest, it's getting harder and harder to coordinate schedules with friends, and you've already missed two assignments. Being a UMBC student is no walk through the breezeway; or, for commuters, it's no drive in the fast lane.
My advice? Re-evaluate your schedule! Look for those awkward gaps where you're on campus for three straight hours and think of how you can use them better. How can you use your drive home more efficiently? You could use that time to plan your day or to mentally review material from class. Or to sing really loudly. Your choice. A half-hour ride on the bus could be a great study time for your language class.
The point is, think intentionally about the habits you are forming. Ask the questions; are they beneficial; efficient; awesome?
So, since you all have so much more free time now, I'm sure that you can make it to our Transfer Student Network Workshops happening within the next couple weeks!
They are all on Wednesday at Free Hour (12:00-1:00)
- Sep. 25: How to Conduct a Career and Internship Search
- Sondheim 103
- Oct 2: Study Skills and Campus Resources for Research
- UC Ballroom Lounge
- Oct 9: Retriever Ready Celebration!
- Lower Flat Tuesdays
Hope to see you there!
-Tom Belliveau
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Meet Christian
Hey everyone, I'm Christian Oyson and I'm a sophomore at UMBC. I am one of the many new Commuter Assistants for OCSS as well as a returning member for the Good Morning Commuter Breakfast. Throughout my UMBC career, I've been a commuter, I've traveled by Metro Bus in the past and now I am currently carpooling to campus. I guess you can say I am a true UMBC Commuter. You might have seen me in the past with GMC. That's because for the past year, I've been a volunteer with OCSS, helping them prepare, execute, and clean up the GMC event every Tuesday. I did this because I thought it would be a way for me to get involved at UMBC, and now I have returned once more to help OCSS and GMC, this time as an official Commuter Assistant.
Recently I've switched majors from Computer Science to Information Systems. It's going well so far and I'm actually excited to see what the Information System career will have for me in the future. As a member of Good Morning Commuters, it's our job to make sure you guys are connected throughout UMBC with its vast resources, departments and clubs to help you get involved and forge your place here at UMBC. In addition we also serve a diverse range of breakfast foods. From the standard bagels and doughnuts, to the delicious taste of bacon, eggs, breakfast sandwiches, pancakes, and more. Believe me, there's a plethora of food that will make you keep coming back for more.
If you haven't done so already, come to our GMC Events every Tuesday at the Commons Main St. or Commuter Lounge from 8:30am to 10:30am. You'll need your Gold Card to get in to get access to the breakfast. If you don't have one, no worries, it's $5 for the card and it lasts the entire school year. In addition to the yearly breakfast, you'll have a 50% discount in the Game Room (3-6pm Monday to Fridays) as well as 1 free SEB Movie Ticket. If you ask me, it's something I think you'll want to have.
Anyways, if you want to stop by and say hi, I'm at the OCSS Desk on Monday from 10am - 12pm and Tuesday from 12pm - 1pm, and the Good Morning Commuter Breakfast on Tuesday from 8:30am - 10:30am. I can help you out with anything related to UMBC, as well as anything you're looking for outside from UMBC from shops to restaurants. Or if you wanna have a good social chat, I'm always up for it.
Recently I've switched majors from Computer Science to Information Systems. It's going well so far and I'm actually excited to see what the Information System career will have for me in the future. As a member of Good Morning Commuters, it's our job to make sure you guys are connected throughout UMBC with its vast resources, departments and clubs to help you get involved and forge your place here at UMBC. In addition we also serve a diverse range of breakfast foods. From the standard bagels and doughnuts, to the delicious taste of bacon, eggs, breakfast sandwiches, pancakes, and more. Believe me, there's a plethora of food that will make you keep coming back for more.
If you haven't done so already, come to our GMC Events every Tuesday at the Commons Main St. or Commuter Lounge from 8:30am to 10:30am. You'll need your Gold Card to get in to get access to the breakfast. If you don't have one, no worries, it's $5 for the card and it lasts the entire school year. In addition to the yearly breakfast, you'll have a 50% discount in the Game Room (3-6pm Monday to Fridays) as well as 1 free SEB Movie Ticket. If you ask me, it's something I think you'll want to have.
Anyways, if you want to stop by and say hi, I'm at the OCSS Desk on Monday from 10am - 12pm and Tuesday from 12pm - 1pm, and the Good Morning Commuter Breakfast on Tuesday from 8:30am - 10:30am. I can help you out with anything related to UMBC, as well as anything you're looking for outside from UMBC from shops to restaurants. Or if you wanna have a good social chat, I'm always up for it.
Monday, September 23, 2013
GMC: Every Tuesday at 8:30am
Swing by The Commons Main Street every Tuesday morning, from 8:30am to 10:30am, for some coffee and bagels. It's complimentary with your Commuter Gold Card. Here you can meet new people, express commuter concerns, and learn about the latest events and activities at UMBC.
Don't have a commuter Gold Card? No problem! You can purchase one for just $5 at any GMC breakfast. Gold Cards include an added perk of 1/2 price game play in the Gameroom weekdays 3-6pm.
Don't have a commuter Gold Card? No problem! You can purchase one for just $5 at any GMC breakfast. Gold Cards include an added perk of 1/2 price game play in the Gameroom weekdays 3-6pm.
Friday, September 20, 2013
Meet Tiffany!
Hi all!
My name is Tiffany Cook and this is my second year working in the OCSS office. I am one of the few returning CAs and if you have ever stopped by the office or have been to one of our OCSS events, you have probably seen this face...
...this face is my face...
My name is Tiffany Cook and this is my second year working in the OCSS office. I am one of the few returning CAs and if you have ever stopped by the office or have been to one of our OCSS events, you have probably seen this face...
...this face is my face...
I
am a junior currently majoring in Mathematics with an Elementary
Education focus. I am a proud family member of the Sherman Scholars
(STEP 5). I've been commuting since my first semester here at UMBC as a
freshman, so I would like to say I know how it feels to be a commuter.
The struggles of mid-day parking, the frustration of rush hour traffic,
the search for a quiet place to take a nap on campus.... I've been
there, I'm still there.. But try and focus on the many perks of being a
commuter.
What I do here in Off-Campus Student Services is to help ensure that you, as commuters, understand that you are an important part of the UMBC community. When I am at the desk I cater to your needs and when I'm in the office I'm planning fun events just for you! I work specifically under the Commuter Connections team. We plan a themed event once a month, on a Friday, during free hour, usually in Lower Flat Tuesdays. These events come equipped with free food, games, prizes, and lots of resources to help you feel more welcome. We want you here! That being said.... Our next event is OktoberFEAST on October 18th, 2013... Save the date and come out and see what we have planned for you!
Aside from my title here at UMBC, I love just hanging out with my friends. There is nothing I like to do more in this world than laugh and smile. If you ever want to test out your corny jokes on someone, I'm your girl! Most likely I will respond back with a joke.
I work Tuesdays 1:00-4:00pm, Thursdays 1:00-3:00pm, and Fridays 10:00-3:00pm.
So stop by if you have any questions or would like to just say hi :)
I work Tuesdays 1:00-4:00pm, Thursdays 1:00-3:00pm, and Fridays 10:00-3:00pm.
So stop by if you have any questions or would like to just say hi :)
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Shuttle Tour for World Car Free Day
Take a tour with us to explore Transit Services!
Friday, September 20, 2013 · 1 PM - 1:51 PM
World Car Free Day is September 22nd. Let's celebrate by exploring alternative transportation at UMBC! If you haven't tried Transit Services yet, join us for a tour and tutorial. Meet us in the Commuter Lounge next to the bookstore and the OCSS office at 1:00pm. We'll board the Halethorpe Shuttle at the Park Rd/Commons Dr bus shelter at 1:30. The Halethorpe Shuttle will return to the same location at 1:51. Boarding Transit shuttles is always free for the UMBC campus community.
Free drink, snack, and giveaways!
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Meet Marissa
Hi everyone, my name is Marissa! I'm a Senior, a Graphic Design major and Print Media minor, and a Linehan Scholar.
I've been working at OCSS since January 2013 as the office's Graphic Designer. You can find me around the Commuter Lounge and at the information desk Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Outside of the office you can find me working on Bartleby, UMBC's Creative Arts Journal, serving as the Senior Managing Editor. I love reading, and my most recent favorite reads have been Inferno by Dan Brown and The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith/J.K. Rowling. While studying abroad in Florence this summer, I was able to check out all the places that Dan Brown wrote about in Inferno while I was reading it!
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Meet Poulomi
Hi, my name is Poulomi Banerjee and I am a sophomore at UMBC. I am a new Commuter Assistant for the Good Morning Commuters Breakfast every Tuesday through OCSS! I actually have never commuted since being at UMBC, but I think that with my other job on campus, it will be great to be able to spend more time with a different population of campus to figure out the needs and wants of those students.
I have just recently switched to a double major in Health Administration and Public Policy focusing on Public Health and Gender & Women Studies with a possible minor in Writing. I was a Teen Ambassador of the Domestic Violence Center as an intern under the Community Outreach Director my senior year in high school, and I’d love to take on a position like that working with Domestic Violence prevention and promoting equality between men and women.
I also work as an Event Programmer at the Student Events Board or otherwise known as (seb)! With that job, I plan a lot of different type of events to bring the student of UMBC together to have fun and take a break from classes! Along with being in (seb) and being a part of OCSS, I am also a sister of Phi Sigma Sigma! Within the chapter, I hold the position of Diversity Chair.
I am often found running around campus going from point A to point B, but I’m always willing to stop and have a conversation!
Friday, September 13, 2013
Weekend at UMBC
Check out what's happening on campus this weekend...
Saturday,
September 14, 2013
8 AM to 9 PM (seb)
Ocean City Bus Trip
SOCIAL · Off Campus · Come to the beach for a last chance to
soak up the sun before the semester picks up! Tickets are $15 and are on sale
now at the CIC.
10 AM to 5 PM
Spectrum 2013 Visual Arts Faculty Exhibition
PERFORMANCE/EXHIBIT · Center for Art Design and Visual
Culture· The Center for Art, Design and Visual Culture presents Spectrum,
a Visual Arts Faculty Exhibition organized by the CADVC and featuring
work by six faculty from UMBC’s...
7 PM to 10:30 PM UMBC
Gospel Choir presents IGNITE
internalize-God-nite
OTHER · Fine Arts · Come and ignite the fall semester with a
night of praise and worship! Featuring Stevenson and Towson Gospel Choirs,
Thomas Clay, GB, ANQ, and much more!
9 PM to 11:59 PM
(seb) Weekly Movie: Iron Man 3
SOCIAL · Lecture Hall 1: Biological Sciences · Come out
Thursday at 9 pm, Friday at 8 pm, or Saturday at 8 pm to see Iron Man 3! Tickets for the Thursday and Friday showings
are $2 and available at the CIC....
Sunday, September 15, 2013
1 PM to 3 PM (seb) Football & Wings- Ravens vs. Browns
SOCIAL · The Commons : Sports Zone · Come out to the Sports Zone at 1pm to watch the Ravens take on the Browns!Free wings and fun to be provided by (seb)!
1 PM to 3 PM Women's Soccer vs. Bucknell
GAME/TOURNAMENT · Soccer Stadium · The UMBC women's soccer continues non-conference action as it battles Bucknell at the Retriever Soccer Park. Free admission for Retriever fans.
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Sunday, September 15, 2013
1 PM to 3 PM (seb) Football & Wings- Ravens vs. Browns
SOCIAL · The Commons : Sports Zone · Come out to the Sports Zone at 1pm to watch the Ravens take on the Browns!Free wings and fun to be provided by (seb)!
1 PM to 3 PM Women's Soccer vs. Bucknell
GAME/TOURNAMENT · Soccer Stadium · The UMBC women's soccer continues non-conference action as it battles Bucknell at the Retriever Soccer Park. Free admission for Retriever fans.
0 comments
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Meet Salma
Hey Everyone!
My name is Salma Waheed and I am a junior at UMBC. I transferred to UMBC in the spring of my Freshmen Year. My Major is Psychology with a certification in Early Education. After I graduate I hope to become a teacher. Children are my passion and love being around them. Maybe one day I can have my own child care center. Besides obsessing over children(not in a creepy way); I enjoy running, playing tennis and going to the gym. I am really excited about working at OCSS and with the Transfer Student Network. It is bringing me back to the high school days when I worked in an office and planned events. I realized how much I have missed it and I am glad to be involved at UMBC. I hope to help transfer students adjust to UMBC as much as possible.
I feel like it's vital to get involved and know more about UMBC in order to make your experience worthwhile. As a commuter student you don't want to go class and then go home. Go out there and talk to people and take advantage of what all UMBC has to offer. A great way to start is to come out to any OCSS event!
I am going to leave you with a little bit of advice that I have learned through personal experience...
1. Find clubs and organization that you are most interested in (go to their meetings) and pick out the ones that you like
2. Don’t give up! You may not be interested in the first few clubs/ organizations that you go to
3. Keep trying because there is something at UMBC for everyone or you can even start your own club!
If you ever have any questions feel free to email me at wsalma1@umbc.com
I would love to talk to you!

Thank you for reading,
Salma
How is your experience at UMBC going so far?
Leave it in the comments section below :)
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