05/14/2026
A group of high school Scholars recently embarked on an enriching campus visit to the University of Maryland (UMD) in College Park. This opportunity allowed our students to experience the vibrant atmosphere of a major public university firsthand and gain valuable insights into college life.
We were fortunate to have a current UMD first-year student, Danelley Bartalon, lead our tour. Danelley provided an authentic and inspiring perspective, sharing her experiences and answering our students' questions with enthusiasm. The tour was filled with memorable moments that connected our students to the traditions and culture of UMD. A significant highlight was the mandatory stop outside the iconic McKeldin Library to engage with the beloved campus tradition involving Testudo, the Terrapin mascot. Our students eagerly participated, rubbing the nose of the bronze Testudo statue for good luck, a ritual believed to help students achieve success on exams and in their academic pursuits.
The trip exposed our scholars to the campus environment, academic resources, and spirited traditions of the University of Maryland, further fueling their aspirations for higher education.