Conquering the Beacon: A (Mostly) Hilarious Guide to Getting into UMass Boston
So you've set your sights on UMass Boston, the university with a campus as vibrant as a Dunkin' Donuts menu (cue the Bostonian accent). But fear not, intrepid applicant, for this guide will be your compass through the treacherous waters of college applications (or at least get you a decent cup of coffee along the way).
Step 1: Assembling Your Arsenal (Of Applications)
Tip: Slow down when you hit important details.
The Application Itself: This is where you get to brag (but not too much) about your academic achievements. Think of it as your online trophy case, but with less participation ribbons (unless those ribbons were hard-earned, then by all means, boast away!). UMass Boston accepts both the UMass Boston Application and the Common App, so pick your poison...or should we say, your platform of choice?
Transcript Time! Dust off those old report cards (or have your friendly neighborhood guidance counselor dig them up). UMass Boston wants to see your academic history, from that A+ in freshman English to the time you aced that dodgeball tournament in gym class (hey, transferable skills matter!).Pro Tip: Transcript grades are important, but a strong upward trend can also impress.
Standardized Testing: To Test or Not to Test? This is the age-old question. UMass Boston offers a "Test-Optional" policy, meaning you can choose to submit your SAT or ACT scores or ditch them entirely. The choice is yours, grasshopper!Super Important Note: If your test scores are stellar, by all means, submit them! But if they're making you sweat more than a Boston summer day, then you're good to go sans-test.
The All-Powerful Essay: This is your chance to shine brighter than a Celtics championship parade. Don't write about your cat or your summer vacation to Hawaii (unless it involved saving a baby sea turtle, then maybe). Do showcase your passions, your goals, and why UMass Boston is the perfect place to launch yourself into the world (think less launching yourself out of a cannon, more like a graceful hot air balloon ride).
Step 2: The Recommendation Letter Rhapsody
Tip: A slow, careful read can save re-reading later.
- Who You Gonna Call? A teacher or counselor who can vouch for your awesomeness. This person should be able to speak to your work ethic, your brilliance (or at least your eagerness to learn), and maybe even a funny anecdote or two (just keep it school-appropriate, folks).
QuickTip: Pause after each section to reflect.
How To Get Into Umass Boston |
Step 3: Breathe, You're Almost There!
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
- Stay Calm and Carry On: The application process can be stressful, but don't let it turn you into a frazzled mess. Take breaks, eat healthy snacks (avoid the Dunkies munchies for a bit), and maybe listen to some calming whale sounds (or your favorite pump-up playlist, whatever gets you focused).
Now you've assembled your application army, you're ready to conquer UMass Boston!
How-To FAQs:
- How to submit my application? Head over to the UMass Boston admissions website (
) and follow the easy-to-navigate instructions (seriously, it's not rocket science).https://www.umb.edu/admissions/apply/ - How much does it cost to apply? The application fee is a cool $60, but fee waivers are available for those who qualify.
- Deadlines? We don't need no stinkin' deadlines! Actually, deadlines are very important. Check the UMass Boston website for specific deadlines based on your application type (early action, regular decision, etc.).
- How do I know if I got in? They'll send you an email (check your spam folder, just in case).
- I applied, now what? Relax, celebrate (with a Boston Cream Pie, perhaps?), and start prepping for an amazing college experience!