Join an active research team. This work focuses on the factors and conditions that create and maximize success for underrepresented groups in engineering and IT majors and fields. Undergraduate Research Assistant positions are for five hours per week for both fall and spring semester. Unpaid, but may earn academic credit. Research assistants must have at least a 3.0 GPA and possess strong writing skills and the ability to work both independently and as a team member. Must be willing to learn EndNote software and be available to meet with the other members of the research team. Some experience with using the UMBC library’s online search procedures and familiarity with APA citation style preferred. Apply through UMBCworks. For more information Dr. Susan Martin, CWIT Associate Director, susan@umbc.edu, phone: (410) 455-3109

Junior or Senior computer science/electrical engineering undergraduates needed to help in developing operant conditioning experimental apparatus for use in biology/psychology experiments with birds. Must have Matlab programming skills and familiarity with basic computer and electronic hardware. Circuit-building skills and previous experience with signal processing a plus. Students will assist in building experimental hardware and in programming Tucker-Davis signal processing modules (http://www.tdt.com/) to interface with experimental hardware. A variety of designs are anticipated, which may lead to several different student projects involving independent study credit (399 or 499). If interested, please contact Dr. Bernie Lohr (blohr “at” umbc.edu).

What should new UMBC students read next year? Nominate the book you think would be best for the New Student Book Experience. Now you can nominate on Facebook. Once you suggest a book, you can choose to post your suggestion on Facebook and ask your friends to also suggest books. New students this year really liked The Translator. Can we find something just as engaging for next year? There is also a non-Facebook online form for nominations.

UMBC's SGA is not an ordinary student government.  For one thing, it's much larger and more inclusive than most, so students with a variety of interests and passions find a home.  Last year more than 140 students served in SGA positions; this year, the total will undoubtedly be even higher.

• SGA's Executive Branch is looking for staff members work on a variety of initiatives to support students and enhance campus life.  Each staff member works within an Executive Branch department, under the guidance of the President, Vice Presidents and Department Directors and Assistant Directors.  Staff positions are available in the departments of Academic Affairs; Community and Governmental Affairs; Environmental Affairs; Finances and Operations; Health and Wellness; Public Relations; Service, Volunteerism and Awareness; Student Advocates; and Student Organization Support.  No experience is necessary; training is provided.  If this is NOT your first year at UMBC and you want to apply for an Executive Branch position, follow this link:  Executive Branch Application (first year students, please read on).

• If this is your first year at UMBC, consider applying to be a First Year Ambassador.  First Year Ambassadors serve in the SGA Senate, Finance Board and Executive Branch.  They have all of the responsibilities of other SGA officers (except that First Year Ambassadors serving in the Senate and Finance Board do not vote), but receive special training and opportunities to learn about SGA's and UMBC's structure and operations.  In addition, First Year Ambassadors have the opportunity to represent SGA on the First Year Council.  To apply to join SGA as a First Year Ambassador, follow this link:  First Year Ambassador Application

•  Finally, one of the students elected to the SGA Senate last spring has resigned, and SGA will appoint a new Senator to fill the vacancy.  The 11 SGA Senators meet weekly (Mondays at 5:30 p.m.), connect with other students to learn about their experiences and frustrations, represent students in formal and informal policy discussions with other campus leaders, and develop initiatives in partnership with the Executive Branch.  To apply for the vacant SGA Senate position (application is due 9/17), follow this link:  SGA Senator Application

See the Greek and Roman cities of Miletus, Priene, Pergamum, and Ephesos. Visit the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi in Istanbul. Take a boat ride on the Bosphorus. All during Spring Break 2011. Students, faculty, and staff members are all welcome. The trip also can be taken as the course ANCS 301 for credit (Culture and Humanities). For more information on itinerary and pricing, email Mary Welsh (mwelsh@umbc.edu).