What Students Say
This trip was probably the biggest event of my academic career. The things that I have learned from this experience are priceless and will remain with me throughout my life. Rebecca Goldring, 2004 alumna
I have learned so much about research and being in the field but almost as importantly I have grown as a person. This trip has continued to fuel my desire to become a researcher. Stephanie Swords, 2004 alumna
My experience here so far has been incredible and I feel extremely fortunate to have been given this opportunity to visit a foreign country, experience another culture, and pursue my research interests. This is an experience I will never forget. Karis Pallone, 2004 alumna
This semester has been a source of immense personal and academic growth. My association with the International Field Research Program has been one of the most rewarding of my life. Nathan Kolb, 2004 alumnus
It deepened my interest in comparative public policy and helped me realize my passion for qualitative research. Also, overall it was a wonderful way to experience a new country. The faculty were just wonderful (and fun!) to travel with. Simply one of the best experiences during my tenure as a graduate student. Stacey Bouchet, 2003 alumna
As a graduate student, I found the IFR program to be a fun and practical way to apply the research techniques and theories from my coursework. I was also immensely impressed with the sense of camaraderie among the IFR participants, and the very supportive environment of the program. NeQuitha LaShaun Watson, 2003 alumna
I was at first intimidated by the concept of research. However, a program like the IFR walks you through the research process and makes learning fun by applying what you learn in the classroom to the real world. Given the opportunity, I would do it all over again. The IFR program was by far one of the highlights of my career here at UMBC. I will graduate in December feeling blessed to have participated in one of the most exciting courses you can take here. It whetted my appetite for international studies and after graduation, I hope to live and work abroad through the United States Peace Corps program. Folukemi Akinjiola, 2003 alumna