On this episode we hear a rebroadcast of a presentation that formed a part of the 2023 UMBC Africana Studies Conference, organized by Dr. Gloria Chuku, Professor and Chair of UMBC's Africana Studies Department.
The lecture, which took place in May of 2023, was given by keynote speaker Dr. Aili M. Tripp. Dr. Tripp is Vilas Research Professor of Political Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Tripp's research has focused on gender/women and politics, women's movements in Africa, transnational feminism, African politics (with particular reference to Uganda and Tanzania), autocracies in Africa, and on the informal economy in Africa. She is presently working on a project on women's political leadership in African autocracies and a second project on women's political citizenship and conflict globally.
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About The Series
As we gear up for a new year of programming and opportunities to engage, we at the Center for Democracy and Civic Life would like to hear from you! As you know, many of our programs (e.g. Dinner with Friends, Change Makers Dinner) create opportunities for UMBC community members to have meaningful conversations with each other about topics that are important to them.
What would you like to talk about this year? Your thoughts on topics or issues you’d like to discuss at these events will inform our planning. Please enter your thoughts here by August 11, 2023.
We greatly appreciate your time. We look forward to seeing you soon.
]]>Today's episode features the remarkable UMBC MA in Applied Sociology program. Contact the program for more information at sociologyma@umbc.edu.
First we hear from Dr. Christine Armstrong Mair and Dr. Brandy H. Wallace, both UMBC faculty members affiliated with the Applied Sociology program. We also hear from two current MA students working on theses in applied sociology, R.B. Brauer and Jayla Gray-Thomas, and two recent alumni of the program, Fariha Khalid and Perry Gilchrist.
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About The Series
On this episode, our host, Dr. Ian Anson, speaks with Dr. Michelle Scott, Professor of History and Affiliate Faculty in Gender and Women's Studies, Language, Literacy and Culture, and Africana Studies at UMBC, about her recent book: T.O.B.A. Time: Black Vaudeville and the Theater Owners' Booking Association in Jazz-Age America
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About The Series
A post curated by the Women’s Center’s Program Coordinator, Jane DeHitta
At the end of every semester, the Women’s Center hosts a Graduation + End of the Year celebration for all of the Scholars + Affiliates in the Returning Adult Learners Program. (Read on to see a list of our graduating RAL Scholars) This event is a special tradition in the Women’s Center with its intentions rooted in creating celebratory space for both our continuing and graduating returning adult learners who are UMBC students seeking their first undergraduate degree.
These students are called “returning” because they often have various circumstances that have kept them from what our popular culture deems as a traditional college path and they are now “returning” to college to pursue their degree. Student scholars in this program not only receive scholarships to help financially supplement their tuition, but also benefit from tailored support and programming from Women’s Center staff through individualized meetings, programs, and events that meet the specific needs of older students on campus. Affiliate Scholars are also an important part of our program and community (and if you’re interested in joining, reach out to the Women’s Center!).
For the last few years, our pinning ceremony has been held over virtual calls, with graduating students receiving their pins in the mail prior to the event so that they can “pin” themselves on camera before sharing what it means to them to have reached their goal. This year, we had our first in-person RAL End of the Year Celebration since the lockdown, and it was a delight to welcome our scholars + affiliates into the Women’s Center space, joined by our newly inaugurated president, Dr, Sheares Ashby, and our new Women’s Center director, Lauren Allen, as well as representatives from the Newcombe Foundation and other campus members.
I have now had the honor of working with the RAL program for the last two years and it is always such a joy to come together and celebrate these students and to give them space to celebrate themselves. During our time, Dr. Sheares-Ashby eagerly asked each of our adult learners to share about themselves–What are you studying? What made you come back to school? What do you want to do after you have graduated? Hearing their stories always reminds me that no matter where you are in life or what you have been through, it is never too late to come back, change paths, or pursue something new. Adult Learners enrich our UMBC community and we are so happy for our students who are one step closer to completing their goal.
ID: Dr. Sheares-Ashby listening to RAL students sharing their stories
ID: RAL community gather in the Women’s Center Lounge to reflect on the past year
ID: RAL Scholars + Affiliates with Women’s Center Pro Staff and Newcombe Scholar Representatives stand together smiling
ID: RAL Scholars + Affiliates with Women’s Center Pro Staff, Dr. Sheares-Ashby, OIA and Newcombe Scholar Representatives gather together smiling at the camera
And now, it is with great joy and pride that I invite you to join me in celebrating these fantastic students and their accomplishments. Below are this year’s (Spring ’23 & Fall ’22) graduating Returning Adult Learner Scholars who in their own words* share what they were involved in at UMBC, what’s next for them after UMBC, and advice they wanted to share with other adult learners.
Megan Curtiss – Environmental Science & Geography BS, Spring ’23
What were you involved in at UMBC and/or what was your experience like as an adult learner? Working full time and going to school full time has certainly been a challenging experience. I was hopeful that as long as I continued to put one foot in front of the other and focus on what needed to be accomplished today, I could reach my goal of graduating. When I first transferred to UMBC, I had no idea what kind of resources were available to students or how to navigate the college experience as someone older than all of my classmates. There was a bit of a learning curve for me, but after talking to different people (classmates, professors, advisors, etc)about their own experiences I started to get a better idea of how I wanted to spend my time while at UMBC. A suggestion during an RAL mid-semester check-in prompted me to reach out to some of the professors in my department about possible research opportunities that I could become involved with. Sending a quick email and asking that question about research on campus allowed me to spend a lot of this time in my final semester before graduating gaining research and practical field experience that I can include on my resume. It has also given me the chance to develop my networking skills and strengthen my ability to represent myself professionally in my field.
What are your plans after graduation (grad school, work, etc.)? I don’t have concrete plans just yet. I am giving myself a little time to breath before really commiting to my next steps. I have considered grad school and have been applying to jobs and internships in my field. I am waiting to see what opportunities present themselves over the coming months instead of stressing myself out over timelines of when things SHOULD happen. However, to celebrate completing my undergraduate degree, I have two trips planned for the upcoming months! I am going to go to Nevada for a week in June and Costa Rica for 10 days in September. So, I am very excited to get to travel and just enjoy life for a moment.
Looking back on your experience, what is your advice for current Returning Adult Learners? My advice for current Returning Adult Learners is to utilize the resources within this program and at the university in general. I was intimidated by my lack of understanding when it came to how college ‘worked’. For example, I wasn’t sure how people got involved in research on campus and a conversation in my mid-semester check in provided the insight that it’s as simple as sending an email to a few people in your department and asking. Building relationships with professors and advisors is also a great asset. My experience has been that most of my professors want to see their students succeed. Cultivating those relationships helps in a lot of ways – from having academic references, letters of recommendation, or just being able to ask for help when you need it in a particular class.
What else do you want to share? It’s okay to work at your own pace. I struggled (and still do at times) with thinking I needed to rush through this process and that I am running out of time to accomplish my goals. By being so focused on reaching the finish line, it’s easy to miss out on the moments that can really shape and define the experience. Also, be patient with yourself! There were semesters where I knew the course load for specific classes would be heavier and going part time would be the best choice so I could devote the time I needed to be successful and maintain my responsibilities outside of school and my mental health. Everyone’s journey is different.
Kristy – Biological Sciences BA, Spring ’23
What were you involved in at UMBC and/or what was your experience like as an adult learner? I had a lot of worries and anxiety when stepping back into a classroom setting but knowing that there were programs like RAL and the Women’s Center made the reset so much easier. The support and friendships that I’ve had throughout my time at UMBC will always be so cherished!
What are your plans after graduation (grad school, work, etc.)? I’m in the interview process for a data scientist position for the DoD, so fingers crossed that pans out.
Looking back on your experience, what is your advice for current Returning Adult Learners? I think a lot of us are familiar with carrying more weight than we should. For me, branching out and asking for help is something I’ve always struggled with, especially when you feel like no one can relate or emphathize. At UMBC, the professors really are beyond supportive and there are countless resources to ensure that you’re getting the appropriate support to help you succeed. I hope future RALs don’t wait or hesitate to seek help when they need it.
What else do you want to share? To the entire Women’s Center staff who makes sure that the programs, physical office, and members are always up and running, there aren’t enough thank you’s to suffice. The financial support was a tremendous weight off my shoulders but the groups, check-ins, and discussions shared together are safe spaces and moments of peace for a lot of RALs who don’t otherwise get that chance. Forever grateful for everyone!
Erlinda – Modern Languages & Linguistics BA, Spring ’23
What are your plans after graduation (grad school, work, etc.)? This fall, I intend to work as a Spanish teacher at a public school. I plan to use my degree and knowledge of the Spanish language to work with students, helping them learn and understand the language better. I am passionate about teaching a second language and I believe that it is important for everyone to know more than one language. I also plan to complete a master’s degree in intercultural communication at UMBC with a concentration on language and culture. This will give me a foundation in the field and help me better understand different cultures as well as language learning. I will become more culturally aware, and it will help me a lot in my teaching career because there are ethnic groups of students, and it is important to be culturally aware. My future career after completing my master’s degree is to become a Spanish instructor at a community college.
Looking back on your experience, what is your advice for current Returning Adult Learners? My advice to current adult learners is to never give up on their studies; patience and persistence will pay off. It won’t always be easy, but it will be worth it in the end. Don’t forget to take care of yourself by getting plenty of rest and staying healthy. It’s important to remember that you are not alone in your journey and that there are many resources available to help support you throughout the process.
What else do you want to share? Thank you for letting me be part of this community and for supporting me financially and personally. I am motivated and excited to be able to keep learning and growing in my field as a Spanish teacher. With your help, my dreams of obtaining a bachelor’s degree have come true.
Cai – Social Work BA & Psychology BA, Spring ’23
What were you involved in at UMBC and/or what was your experience like as an adult learner? I did a lot of networking
What are your plans after graduation (grad school, work, etc.)? Work in the field and contemplate grad school!
Looking back on your experience, what is your advice for current Returning Adult Learners? Make use of the resources and always always ask for help
What else do you want to share? It’s been 10 years since I dropped out of school and got sober, so this is a hug achievement for me!
Ashley – Social Work BA & Psychology BA, Fall ’22
What were you involved in at UMBC and/or what was your experience like as an adult learner? As an adult learner at UMBC I tried my best to get involved as much as possible. I was the co-vice-president of the Phi Alpha Social Work honors society. I also had the opportunity to participate in research with a wonderful mentor, Dr. Kerri Evans, from the social work department. I was able to work as a research assistant, during which time I worked on a few academic publications. Additionally, I worked with a team to develop a board game to be used for cultural sensitivity training towards immigrant students in K-12 schools. I was able to present one research paper at URCAD 2022. I was able to co-present our game project at the CSWE Critical Conversations conference 2022.
What are your plans after graduation (grad school, work, etc.)? After graduating I plan to complete a masters degree in clinical social work. I’m not sure about which population I would like to work with yet!
Looking back on your experience, what is your advice for current Returning Adult Learners? My advice is to appreciate the kind community of people who offer support at the women’s center. Make as many friends as possible. Don’t be afraid to confide in them if you are struggling. This is a great place to be.
What else do you want to share? I am super appreciative of the team in the women’s center who have shown me nothing but kindness and support. It was a huge blessing in my life to be a part of this community. I have gone through so much during my time at school, but I knew I always had support with the RAL scholar staff members. Love them :).
Lejla Heric-Safadi – Public Health BA, Fall ’22
What you were involved in at UMBC and/or what was your experience like as an adult learner? My involvement was with the Women’s Center and as a member of AMWHO.
What are your plans after graduation (grad school, work, etc.)? I started a full-time position during my last semester, so I will continue working while applying to graduate programs.
Looking back on your experience, what is your advice for current Returning Adult Learners? Do not be afraid to challenge yourself. Ask for help because you are not alone. Build connections with the people in your classes as you might gain new friends like I did.
What else do you want to share? UMBC and Women’s Center were crucial to my success as a returning student. I could not have found a better place for me, as I felt supported and encouraged, even during struggles that Covid brought on. I fulfilled all my academic goals and then some, as I added two minors and a certificate to my major, which will not only be helpful to my career, but have also helped me clarify the focus of my further studies.
Jency Suresh – Social Work BA, Fall ’22
What you were involved in at UMBC and/or what was your experience like as an adult learner? As an adult learner, it was hard for me to find time for clubs or any other activities in the campus. Through, women’s center services I was able to meet with the students who were adult learners. I was able to talk to them and have conversations with them on so many topics. During COVID, the Women’s Center helped me to grow strong because I know they were there for me no matter what the situation was. Ms. Jess, Sandra and Jane were very supportive whenever I had a concern or a problem. They were there to listen to me and help me sort out my concerns. Ms. Jess always went beyond her role and helped me. I am very grateful for everything the women center has offered me!
What are your plans after graduation (grad school, work, etc.)? I am planning to pursue my Master’s degree in Social work
Looking back on your experience, what is your advice for current Returning Adult Learners? Please do not hold back your questions. The Women’s Center has answers for you!
What else do you want to share? I want to encourage all the hard working students to get out there and push hard to accomplish their dreams.
Jackie SJ Kim – Acting BFA, Fall ’22
What you were involved in at UMBC and/or what was your experience like as an adult learner? Acting BFA – professors needed to work more on learning different ethnic backgrounds of their students and how they’re being treated between their faculty and staff members.
What are your plans after graduation (grad school, work, etc.)? Move to ATL and eventually LA
Looking back on your experience, what is your advice for current Returning Adult Learners? Don’t give up. Age is just a number. Everyone’s journey and chapter is different. Do not compare yourself to others. You don’t know what they’ve gone through and they don’t know your story either. You deserve that much grace and love towards yourself.
What else do you want to share? We did it
]]>By: Rae Daniel
I had the wonderful opportunity of interviewing my co-worker and former UMBC MCS student Dakota Boodhoo. While attending UMBC, Dakota was able to get an internship at a BCPL library through MCS 404, and after graduation he continued in the library career path, where he eventually ended up back at UMBC, not as a student, But as an AOK Library worker! What goes around, comes around. He and I talked about His journey, and the integration of MCS in his daily work life.
Rae: How did you transition from a major in Media and Communication Studies to a career in a library? What inspired you to make that transition?
Dakota: I was uncertain about my career direction after completing my Media and Communication Studies degree. However, I landed an internship at BCPL Pikesville Branch library and found it to be a rewarding experience. With time, I gained more knowledge and eventually pursued a career in libraries. It wasn't an easy journey, but I take pride in taking an unusual career path.In fact the internship was the one I used for my MCS internship and I found out that I could use this degree in the field to become a digital media library specialist.
R: Was Media and Communications Studies your first choice of major?
D: Yes, I chose Media and Communication Studies as my major because I've always been fascinated by the power of media to shape our understanding of the world. I'm particularly interested in the role that media plays in shaping public opinion and influencing social change. I have been studying commuincations since I was in middle school my magnet program was Mass Communications. I have never left it and last May received my Master's in Organizational Communications.
R: In what ways do you see your media and communications background as an asset in your current role, and how have you leveraged those skills to enhance your work?
D: With a background in Media and Communication Studies, I excel at effective communication with others. My skills allow me to make a positive impact on society and convey my ideas clearly. I have to deal with students and community members from all backgrounds. In order to be successful you must communicate well.
R: What kind of jobs did you pursue after graduation, and how did you get started in your career?
D: Internships in libraries and job shadowing led me to my career. I enjoyed working with the people and the type of work they did. I spent many years in the library as a visitor and it was my happy place. Working their has been a blast. Also using my degree everyday has also been pretty great.
R: What do you think are some of the key skills and qualities needed to be successful in a library, and how do those compare to the skills and qualities needed in media and communications?
D: As someone with experience in media and communication, I believe that effective communication is a vital skill that can make a positive difference in both fields. The ability to articulate ideas clearly, engage with others, and convey information accurately are all transferable skills that are valuable in both environments. However, in a library setting, attention to detail, organization, and a passion for learning and research are also crucial qualities.Especially in academic libraries.
R: What do you enjoy most about working in a library, and what are some of the biggest challenges you face in your role?
D: This job can be peaceful and fulfilling, but also comes with challenges like dealing with difficult patrons and staying up-to-date with new technologies. Working with the campus community you enjoy getting to know the students and seeing them grow and mature each semester. It's also kind of sad seeing them graduate but you are happy to see them go fulfill their dreams.
R: What is an underrated genre of books in your opinion?
D: Historical fiction is underrated. It's entertaining, educational, and can be just as gripping as any other genre. It's funny seeing the rise of shows like Bridergton or Queen Charlotte on Netflix they are helping bring attention to the genre.
R: What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of being a Media and Communication Studies student, and how have you navigated the field through your college career?
D: MCS was great it prepared me for the real world. Also they expected the best from us and I felt prepared to get my Maste's. Lots of papers and projects but I enjoyed them all. Professor Snyder was the best! I have heard many complain that they just felt like they were just a number at their university in MCS I felt they wanted us to succeed. MCS prepares you for any field it's the best.
R: How do you think libraries are evolving and changing in the digital age, and what do you see as the role of libraries in the future?
D: Even with the rise of technology, libraries still have an essential role in providing access to information and promoting literacy. In the future, libraries will adapt to meet the needs of a digital society while maintaining their commitment to equitable access. Libraries will be a hub for lifelong learning, fostering a love of reading, critical thinking skills, and supporting the community's educational and cultural needs. In the academic world libraries are a safe place where students can always come together and study. During the pandemic we missed seeing students together the library always provides a place to do it.
R: What advice do you have for someone who is interested in pursuing a career in the library field, especially if they come from a different academic background?
D: If you're determined to pursue a career in the library field, especially if you come from a different academic background, it's crucial to start by researching the various roles and responsibilities within the field. Taking courses or workshops to gain knowledge and skills in areas such as information management, literacy and education, and community outreach is highly recommended. In addition, volunteering at a local library can provide invaluable experience and insight into the daily operations of a library. Moreover, networking with professionals in the field can help you gain a better understanding of the industry and potential career opportunities. Remember, libraries play an essential role in society, and your skills and passion can make a significant difference in promoting equitable access to information and literacy. Find out which type of library that interests you they have public, private and academic libraries. Find your specialization, there is someplace for everyone.
By: Sophia Blackwell
Photo Credit: Ashley Harper Cottrell
Meet Graham Whaples, a UMBC Alumni, ‘19, MCS & American Studies, as he talks about his fond memories at UMBC as an Athletics Broadcaster for the Retrievers and gives some advice for current MCS students.
His fondest memory as a Retrievers Athletics Broadcaster: “The relationships I was able to build with all of the coaches and Athletics Department staff, especially the student-led Broadcast Team. Not only have I continued to keep those relationships alive, but I've actually used those relationships in my current position. UMBC's Retriever Soccer Park has served as a host for professional soccer teams for practices that we've hosted over the years, and I've found myself working with the Athletics Department staff on planning, site visits, and other operations that go into logistics and planning.”
Graham is a Project Administrator at Maryland Stadium Authority, Marketing and Communications Group with Maryland Sports Commission. A typical day for him consists of the “regular administrative stuff: responding to emails, Zoom meetings and conference calls, etc.... However, our department is also outward facing, so that means I also get to attend conferences and tradeshows (in state and out of state), I do site and venue survey's and visits, attend sporting events and other events not related to sports, meet with potential partners in the Baltimore-Metro area and across the state.”
Graham gives advice for students at UMBC pursuing sports broadcasting: “Sports and sports broadcasting are very competitive industries but there are more jobs in sports than a lot of people might think. If you're in college, start with the university athletics department. It's a great way to get invaluable skills and experience. I've moved away from broadcasting just because it is such a grind and hard to juggle with having young kids, but I'm still able to work in the sports industry through sports tourism in my current position with the Maryland Stadium Authority/ Maryland Sports Commission.... so I'm lucky in that I've been able to find something that I truly enjoy doing.”
His future goals would be “playing some kind of role in getting the NFL Draft and MLB All Star Game to Baltimore. We work closely with Visit Baltimore, the Destination Marketing Organization for the city of Baltimore, and hosting the NFL Draft in Baltimore is definitely on their radar, as it is for us at the Maryland Sports Commission.”