Through courses, speakers, field trips, research, service-learning, and internships, Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars gain an interdisciplinary understanding of important global, national, and local issues. As they think critically and creatively about how to address those issues, they also learn about human behavior, public policy, and major social, economic, and political institutions. Students acquire analytical and expressive skills and explore various roles through which they might serve the public and impact society inside or outside of government. Meanwhile, students progress through a major in their desired discipline, and often also through additional majors, minors, or certificate programs.
As serious scholars, “Sondheims” do more than earn good grades–they search for knowledge because doing so fascinates them and has the potential to solve important problems of our time. As members of an exceptionally diverse university that is supported by the state’s citizens, they also have opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills off-campus, helping UMBC make major contributions to Baltimore, Maryland and beyond. Many Sondheim Scholars also help shape the campus by becoming leaders in UMBC student government and organizations.
Scholar Cohorts
Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars enjoy active friendships with like-minded, involved students. Each Scholar enters the program as part of a small cohort of peers, about 15 other new Scholars. They bond with their cohort members through participation in orientation, a retreat, shared first year classes, and social activities. New scholars are mentored by upperclassmen, which incorporates freshmen into the UMBC community for both academics and extracurriculars.
Activities
Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars participate in activities together throughout the academic year. The year kicks off with a social event where incoming scholars get to know one another and connect with the other cohorts of scholars. Each semester we go on field trips, such as to governmental institutions or to plays or museums with themes relevant to our work in improving society. We sponsor annual panel discussions with policy experts, and all Sondheim Scholars contribute to an annual day of service. At the end of each academic year, we celebrate our graduating seniors. Our student Steering Committee organizes additional community-building social events, including the first-year retreat. First-year Sondheim Scholars (and often older ones too) participate in service-learning in the community, while students complete an internship and at least one other experiential learning activity (such as study abroad, a formal research experience, or another internship) before graduation.
Advising
Sondheim Public Affairs Scholars receive intensive advising and mentoring. Each student is treated as an individual who has unique strengths and needs. Dr. Laura Antkowiak, Director, and Associate Director, Jessica Cook, are always available for advising Scholars. Both have been recognized at UMBC and at the UMD system level for their commitment to student support and mentoring.
With faculty and staff assistance, Scholars are accepted at high-quality, professional graduate and law schools, compete successfully for prestigious awards, such as the Truman Scholarship, and are linked to excellent first jobs in public service fields.