Planning a visit to the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip. Whether you are a prospective student, a researcher, or simply a visitor, having a comprehensive checklist can help you prepare for your visit. Here are 11 complete checklists to guide you through the process of preparing for your visit to UMass Amherst.
Pre-Visit Planning Checklist
Before you start making travel arrangements, it’s essential to plan your visit carefully. Here are some key items to consider:
- Define the purpose of your visit: Are you visiting as a prospective student, researcher, or for another reason?
- Research the university’s academic programs, research opportunities, and facilities
- Check the university’s calendar for events, holidays, and campus closures
- Plan your itinerary, including meetings with faculty, staff, or students
- Book your travel arrangements, including flights, accommodation, and transportation
Travel Arrangements Checklist
Once you have planned your visit, it’s time to make travel arrangements. Here are some key items to consider:
| Travel Arrangement | Details |
|---|---|
| Flights | Book in advance to secure the best rates, and consider flying into Bradley International Airport (BDL) or Logan International Airport (BOS) |
| Accommodation | Book a hotel or lodging in Amherst or nearby towns, such as Hadley or Northampton |
| Transportation | Rent a car, book a taxi or shuttle service, or use public transportation to get to campus |
It's also a good idea to check the weather forecast before your visit and pack accordingly. UMass Amherst is located in the northeastern United States, where the weather can be unpredictable, especially during the winter months.
Campus Visit Checklist
When you arrive on campus, here are some key items to consider:
- Take a campus tour to get familiar with the university’s facilities and layout
- Meet with faculty, staff, or students to learn more about academic programs and research opportunities
- Visit the W.E.B. Du Bois Library, the Student Union, and other key facilities
- Explore the surrounding town of Amherst and its many shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions
- Attend a campus event, such as a lecture, concert, or sports game
Academic Program Checklist
If you are visiting as a prospective student, here are some key items to consider:
Research the university’s academic programs and majors to find the best fit for your interests and career goals. You can also meet with academic advisors to discuss your options and create a plan for your academic career.
| Academic Program | Details |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate programs | UMass Amherst offers over 100 undergraduate majors, including business, engineering, and arts and humanities |
| Graduate programs | UMass Amherst offers over 50 graduate programs, including master’s and doctoral degrees |
| Online and continuing education | UMass Amherst offers a range of online and continuing education programs for working professionals and non-traditional students |
Research Opportunities Checklist
If you are visiting as a researcher, here are some key items to consider:
- Research the university’s research centers and institutes, such as the Center for Hierarchical Manufacturing and the Institute for Applied Life Sciences
- Meet with faculty and researchers to discuss potential collaborations and projects
- Explore the university’s research facilities, including laboratories, greenhouses, and other specialized equipment
- Learn about the university’s research funding opportunities and grant programs
- Attend a research seminar or workshop to learn more about current research projects and initiatives
Facilities and Resources Checklist
UMass Amherst offers a range of facilities and resources to support research and academic success. Here are some key items to consider:
| Facility or Resource | Details |
|---|---|
| Libraries and learning commons | The W.E.B. Du Bois Library and other learning commons offer a range of resources, including books, journals, and online databases |
| Research centers and institutes | UMass Amherst has a range of research centers and institutes, including the Center for Hierarchical Manufacturing and the Institute for Applied Life Sciences |
| Computer and technology resources | UMass Amherst offers a range of computer and technology resources, including high-performance computing, data storage, and software licenses |
Student Life Checklist
UMass Amherst offers a range of student life opportunities, including clubs, organizations, and recreational activities. Here are some key items to consider:
- Explore the university’s student organizations, including cultural, recreational, and community service groups
- Attend a campus event, such as a concert, play, or sports game
- Visit the Student Union and other student facilities, such as the Campus Recreation Center and the Student Health Services
- Meet with student leaders and advisors to learn more about student life and get involved in campus activities
- Take a tour of the university’s residential areas, including dormitories and apartments
Career Services Checklist
UMass Amherst offers a range of career services to support students and alumni in their career development. Here are some key items to consider:
The university’s Career Services office provides a range of resources, including career counseling, resume review, and job search assistance. You can also connect with alumni through the university’s alumni network to learn more about career opportunities and get advice from experienced professionals.
| Career Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Career counseling | One-on-one counseling sessions to help you explore career options and create a career plan |
| Resume review | Get feedback on your resume and cover letter to improve your job search materials |
| Job search assistance | Get help with job searching, including interviewing skills and salary negotiation |
What are the admission requirements for UMass Amherst?
+The admission requirements for UMass Amherst vary depending on the program and level of study. For undergraduate programs, applicants typically need to submit transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation. For graduate programs, applicants typically need to submit transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
What are the housing options for students at UMass Amherst?
+UMass Amherst offers a range of housing options for students, including dormitories, apartments, and fraternity and sorority houses. Students can apply for housing through the university’s housing website, and assignments are typically made on a first-come, first-served basis.
What are the dining options for students at UMass Amherst?
