This fall semester looks very different from most, as we find ourselves learning remotely behind our computer screens. It is even more important now to be looking to form connections and keep in touch with the University of Massachusetts community during these difficult times.

Want to know more about the world of hospitality but don’t know where to begin? Well then, you’ve come across the right blog! Here at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, our Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) prepares students to become leaders in the hospitality industry — one of the world’s largest industries, with endless possibilities for a meaningful and dynamic career. 

Growing up with a bilateral hearing loss, I struggled to feel like I fit in with my peers while still making sure I was receiving the academic accommodations I needed. Over the yearsI have used a number of different resources, such as FMs (a type of assistive hearing device) and assigned seating, and found out which accommodations do, and do not, work well for me.

Like many other first-year students, Matthew Bird wasn’t sure what he wanted to do with his life when he came to college. He knew he had a strong passion for science, and that he wanted to be able to explore the options within the field, making the exploratory track in natural sciences a perfect match. The exploratory tracks are designed for students coming into UMass Amherst who are exploring options before choosing a major.

Jillian Dimmock is a rising sophomore here at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She comes from a family of UMass Amherst grads, as her older sister and dad both graduated from the school.

While we are practicing our social distancing back in the comfort of our own homes, I have been thinking about my college bucket list. One experience I hope to have when I'm back to school is taking a day trip to Northampton with my friends.

Freshman communication major Grace talks about adjusting to life at the University of Massachusetts, changing her major, and things she likes to do on campus.

For New England natives, January brings freezing temperatures and piles of snow. Many would agree that Florida’s warm weather and lush green climate sounds like the ideal winter vacation.

This past Veteran’s Day weekend I went to New York City with the American Hospitality and Lodging Association (AHLA). The AHLA here at the University of Massachusetts Amherst focuses on giving members insight into the hotel industry, and provides students with lots of networking opportunities. While in NYC I got to experience seeing the hotel industry firsthand and was immersed in the real-world experience of the hotel and hospitality industry.

After being at college for almost a month and a half, I took my first trip back home for Columbus Day weekend. The anticipation really built up the week leading up to the holiday, and I was counting down the days till I’d be back home.

If you’d asked me a year ago where I would end up for college, I probably would’ve shrugged my shoulders and told you I was “still figuring it out.” I have a habit of putting off things I don’t want to deal with till the last minute. This includes large life-changing decisions like choosing a college.

The University of Massachusetts put on a variety of events for incoming freshman during Move-In Weekend, which is the long weekend before classes. Whether you are into sports, shopping, or just looking for some good food, there is a little bit of something for everyone!