Student Life
A Community with Purpose
Change-makers. Innovators. Tomorrow’s visionaries. That’s UMass Amherst.
Here, bold ideas connect with a shared commitment to the common good. Whether on campus or beyond, you’ll discover countless ways to explore passions, build community, and lead with purpose.
Student life here means traditions that bring thousands of peers together, vibrant cultural and artistic experiences that expand perspectives, and hundreds of organizations driving advocacy, academics, creativity, and service. It’s about more than belonging—it’s about shaping a community that’s as dynamic and ambitious as you are.
At UMass Amherst, community thrives. Choose from traditional residence halls, suites, apartments, or Defined Residential Communities where you’ll live alongside peers who share your passions and interests.
And whether you live here full-time or come and go, you’ll be fueled by our nationally recognized dining program. With a commitment to sustainability—including sourcing 30% of our produce locally—you’ll find food that not only feeds you but also reflects a commitment to the common good.
Connection is everywhere—and it’s about more than joining a club. With 400+ student organizations, intramural and club sports, and a robust network of service and advocacy opportunities, you’ll find spaces that reflect your passions and people who share your drive.
This is where community expands your perspective, where new passions take shape, and where friendships become collaborations that last a lifetime. Whatever calls you—activism, athletics, the arts, or something entirely new—you’ll find the energy and support to pursue it here.
Your success and well-being aren’t just priorities—they’re the foundation of everything here. From the classroom to campus life, you’ll find the care and resources you need to thrive.
Academic advising, mental and physical health services, safety programs, and initiatives that celebrate and support every aspect of diversity are all designed to help you overcome challenges and keep moving forward. With the right support behind you, it’s easier to take bold steps, pursue big ideas, and contribute to the common good.
In the heart of Western Massachusetts, Amherst anchors a region alive with creativity, history, and possibility.
Just beyond campus, you’ll find trails that climb rugged peaks, river views that stretch for miles, and small farms where local food and traditions thrive. In neighboring Northampton, discover independent shops, live music, and a thriving arts scene. Springfield adds world-class museums and a growing innovation corridor, while small towns throughout the Valley offer farmstands, bookstores, galleries, and hidden gems waiting to be uncovered.
Whether you’re looking for community, culture, or adventure, the Pioneer Valley offers it all—set against a backdrop of rolling hills and a spirit of discovery that’s distinctly its own. The question isn’t what you’ll do here. It’s how far you’ll go.