University of Maryland-College Park

What are the popular events and traditions at University of Maryland-College Park?

Maryland Day, the First Look Fair and Art Attack are recurring events associated with University of Maryland, College Park. They serve different purposes: public engagement, student involvement and entertainment.

Maryland Day opens campus activities to the wider community through demonstrations, performances and presentations from university units. The First Look Fair introduces students to organizations and involvement opportunities near the start of the academic year. Art Attack brings a large student-focused concert and related activities to campus, with programming subject to change. Homecoming and Terrapins sports also create recurring occasions for alumni and current students to gather; attendance and specific events vary by year.

What are the student housing and dining options at University of Maryland-College Park?

University of Maryland, College Park offers undergraduate residence halls and campus dining, but housing availability should not be mistaken for guaranteed placement. Students who want university housing need to follow the applicable housing agreement and deadline procedures.

Residence Life manages traditional campus housing, including coeducational options. Apartment-style choices and privately operated housing near campus may suit some students, but their eligibility, contracts and costs differ from a standard residence-hall assignment. First-year applicants should check the current housing timeline and any priority rules; UMD also has a substantial commuting population.

Campus meal plans provide access to dining halls, with additional retail dining options around campus. Plan requirements and flexibility can depend on where a student lives. Students considering off-campus housing should compare the full lease period, utilities, transportation and meal costs - not just monthly rent - with the terms of a campus housing and dining agreement.