Amery Thompson, assistant director for transfer student success, and Dr. Griselda Flores, director of Off-Campus Student Services (OCSS)  presented at NASPA's Racial Equity and Social Change Conference in December 2023.

Entitled: "Creating Successful Pathways for Black Male Transfer Students in STEM" the presentation focused on the importance of creating pathways for Black male transfer students in STEM, ways to develop intentional partnerships across divisions, as well as the significance that mentorship programs can play in the success of these students during their time in college. It also highlighted work by UMBC and its University Innovation Alliance partners to establish a scholarship program, Students Transferring and Redefining Success or STARS.

As the semester draws to a close, the impending presence of final exams can send stress levels skyrocketing for many students. The pressure to perform well and the sheer volume of material to review can be overwhelming. However, navigating this high-stakes period can be made more manageable by implementing effective stress management strategies.

• Prioritization is key. Break down your study materials into smaller, more manageable chunks, and create a schedule that allocates specific time slots for each subject. This helps in maintaining focus and prevents the feeling of being swamped by the workload. 
• Practicing mindfulness and incorporating short breaks into study sessions can significantly reduce stress. Techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or a brisk walk can provide a much-needed mental reset and enhance concentration.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle during finals week is crucial. With increased workload, it might be tempting to let go of some of our healthy habits. Adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise are often overlooked but play a pivotal role in combating stress. Sleep deprivation can impair cognitive functions and increase anxiety levels, while a nutritious diet and physical activity can boost energy levels and improve overall well-being.
• Rely on your support systems. Don't hesitate to reach out to professors or classmates if you have doubts or need clarification. Forming study groups can offer peer support and foster a collaborative learning environment.

Finals week doesn't have to be synonymous with overwhelming stress. By incorporating these strategies into your routine - prioritizing tasks, practicing mindfulness, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking support - you can navigate this challenging period more effectively and emerge feeling more in control and confident. Balancing academics with self-care is key to not just surviving but thriving during finals week.

Renique Kersh, Ph.D., became UMBC's vice president for student affairs in August 2023, and her first days were a whirlwind that included dropping her sons at school, moving from Boston to Maryland, and attending a number of UMBC welcome events for students and the community.

Now that shes had the chance to replant her roots at UMBC (her first job out of graduate school was as a community director for Residential Life from 2001 - 2003), Dr. Kersh is using her time to listen to the community and bring her expertise to the table as she works with campus leadership and partners to support student success and well-being.

Her excitement and eagerness to be here is evident in the way she enthusiastically talks about UMBC students, staff, faculty, alumni, and families--and the work ahead.

Read the interview with Dr. Kersh on the UMBC Magazine website.