Student Population at the University of Maryland

Hi everyone! I'm looking at the University of Maryland but wanted to know a bit more about the vibe there, especially concerning the number of students. What's the student population like? Is it too crowded or just right? Any current students or alumni who can shed some light? Thanks in advance!

The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) has a relatively large student population, with around 30,000 undergraduates. So it's a comparatively large public university. However, many students enjoy the energy and resources that come with a larger student body. There are hundreds of clubs and organizations, vibrant sports culture, numerous research opportunities, and a broad array of courses and majors to choose from.

This means students can connect with a wide variety of peers and are likely to find groups that align with their interests. However, large class sizes can also be part of this experience, especially in popular introductory courses. But as you move into more advanced levels, classes are typically smaller and more focused.

As to how "crowded" it feels, it can depend on a variety of factors including the specific area of the campus, the time of day, and whether it's a weekday or weekend. For instance, thoroughfares and dining halls can get busy between classes. Despite the size, many students remark that UMD starts to feel smaller once they find their community, whether that's through a club, a Greek organization, a residence hall, or a group of fellow majors.

Thus, feeling "too crowded" or "just right" will largely depend on your personal comfort with large groups and busy environments. If you thrive in a bustling, dynamic environment with a lot of options, you may find UMD to be a great fit. If you're seeking a smaller community, you might need to be proactive about seeking out those smaller, tighter-knit groups on campus, as they definitely do exist within the larger university population. It might be helpful to visit the campus if possible to get a feel for the environment. An in-person tour or virtual event could give you a better sense of the vibe.