UMBC COMMUNITY LEAPING INTO THE

Finding His Home

For Joshua Gray, the college search came down to one question: which school would foster his skills and help him take the next step forward. He applied to about eight different schools, but after much reflection (and connecting with UMBC students and staff), he says that UMBC rose to the top of his list. While on campus, he met the staff and scholars of the Linehan Artist Scholars Program, and his choice was made.

Doing What He Loves

In just one year, Joshua participated in performances at UMBC’s URCAD (Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day) and at a festival put on by the American College Dance Association. With the help of his mentors, and as a Linehan Scholar, Joshua has the support to do what he enjoys most: dance.

Community Is The Key

Outside the studio, Joshua is heavily involved in the campus community. He’s mentored Baltimore city high school students through Charm City Connection, he went on Alternative Spring Break to give back to the community, and he participated in STRiVE, UMBC’s Leadership Retreat.

“Having a good community around you and knowing people on campus helps you get acclimated and get warmed up to a new environment,” Joshua explains.

Joshua has also continued to grow his community by working as a Grit Guide in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, serving as the Student Government Association President, and founding UMBC’s Association of Black Artists.

Taking Civic Action

The Alternative Spring Break (ASB) program includes a variety of studentled experiential learning trips. During ASB, UMBC students work directly with community partners, government officials, and scholars to critically examine complex issues and identify ways to address them. Our ASB trips take place in Baltimore to help our students and our university foster sustainable connections to our city and lay the groundwork for long-term collective civic action.