From Worcester to UMass

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As a freshman eager to transfer from a small college, Mackenzie McNeil needed a change of pace. She favored an active college life that replicated the “hustle and bustle” of Worcester, the city she grew up in. Fortunately, Mackenzie already had the perfect place in mind: University of Massachusetts Amherst. Now a junior majoring in psychology, Mackenzie is grateful she made the choice to transfer and for the opportunities she's found at UMass.

Mackenzie attributes her initial interest in UMass Amherst to its campus, location, and phenomenal reputation among its alumni. “I’ve never heard anyone say they went to UMass and hated it,” she said. “And that definitely attracted me to it, because I wanted to [understand] why everyone loves this school.” Upon visiting campus for the first time, Mackenzie instantly recognized why UMass was deserving of such high praise. She admired its size and walkability, noting “campus is so big that you can never be bored.” Not only is UMass’s campus full of action, but the surrounding towns of Amherst and Northampton are just as engaging. “There are so many things to do off-campus and places to explore.”

Similar to Mackenzie’s hometown, UMass Amherst is bustling with life, opportunity, and activity. “There’s always fun things going on,” she divulged. “There’s so many awesome [organizations] and new people to meet.” Joining clubs is a great way to become involved on campus – which Mackenzie has discovered through becoming a Student Government Association member. As the Chair of the Outreach and Development Committee, her responsibilities include conducting interviews for prospective members and coordinating Senate elections. Beyond striving to improve UMass student life, Mackenzie shared another advantage to being a member of SGA: the friendships she has formed along the way. “I’ve made some of my best friends there,” she said. 

Another opportunity that has enabled Mackenzie to connect with her peers is becoming a tour guide for the university. Despite recently taking on this role, she already feels an incredible bond with her fellow tour guides. “When you become a part of a community at UMass, it feels like you’ve become a part of another family.” 

Experiences such as these are why Mackenzie encourages future UMass Amherst students to “branch out and get out of your comfort zone.” Meeting new people can sound like a daunting task, and as both a transfer student and tour guide, Mackenzie is very familiar with this concern. Her advice? “There’s something for everyone at UMass. When you get here, get involved. If you’re interested in joining a club, just do it. Be your authentic self, [and] you will meet friends that you will stick with for the rest of your years here.”