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I chose UMKC because of the proximity to Kansas City, the Bloch Launchpad program, and the Bloch School in general. Throughout my years at UMKC, I’ve been able to connect with many companies across the city that I wouldn’t have outside of the Bloch School. Bloch Launchpad has been an incredible plus to my college experience as well by fostering my development as a professional and a student.
I recommend looking at affordability, quality of programs, and networking opportunities when searching for a college. One of my favorite things about going to college at UMKC is being a stone’s throw away from so many great companies in Kansas City. UMKC is also competitive in affordability through different competitive programs as well as tuition costs.
Since I live at home, I try to do my school activities like homework and studying on campus. I’ve found that if I do these things in a place like the library, I get a lot more done than If I were to do it on my couch. I also believe it is important to spend time having fun in college, whether it be hanging out with my fraternity brothers, going to sporting events, or lounging at the pool.
It is said by many that Kansas City is a big city with a small-town feel, and I must agree! Ever since starting at UMKC, I’ve been able to explore the culture of the city outside of the suburbs. My favorite thing, however, is the sports culture. When football season starts, there is nothing like being in those stands with a roaring crowd watching our Chiefs play. Especially with friends and a good tailgate tent, a day at Arrowhead cannot be matched! How ‘bout them chiiieeeefffssss.
Being close to home and wanting to start my career off early. UMKC offers tons of great internships and experiences for college students.
Find a university that truly cares about the students. You’ll want a university that will keep the students engaged, have excellent staff in your major department, and provide plenty of resources for every student to succeed. UMKC does a great job in all of these sections.
Setting up a schedule and getting into a weekly routine is important for success. I have a lot going on between working full-time, going to school nearly full time, and beginning to study for the CPA. Making to-do lists and being prepared each week is crucial.
I love all the local businesses, ranging from coffee shops to the breweries. KC is a great business hub, especially for accounting. There are also so many good opportunities for students with UMKC being connected to the heartland. Many businesses are always looking for interns and recent UMKC grads to work for them.
My sister is a student at UMKC and often let me come visit her and we spent time together on campus. I knew pretty quickly that this is a place I could see myself getting used to, as it felt like home. I also love Kansas City and have done all sorts of things there over the years in downtown, the river market, the Plaza etc., so I knew it would be a fun place to enhance my college experience.
Think about the whole picture. Choosing a school solely based on a program might be okay for some, but I think it makes such a difference when you consider other aspects that will make you happy such as the available clubs, activities outside of campus, even the smaller details like the food, outdoor spaces and campus buildings that remind you of the movies. It will most likely be your home for the next 4 years of your life, so make sure you can picture yourself there.
I plan on weekly taking time to look over my planner and see what time is available after assignments, studying and events/meetings, and then seeing which days and times I can spend time with friends and doing things for myself such as working out and relaxing.
