Robbie Miller

Hometown: Rising Sun, Maryland
Major: Animal Science

In-state tuition was an important factor in my decision to come to the University of Maryland, as well as the location of the campus just two hours away from home. And the fact that the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources is very competitive and provides a hands-on approach to learning really helped convince me to come here.

Another great thing is that there are so many things to do around College Park. I like taking the metro to Washington, D.C., and visiting the monuments and museums. The sports games here are always exciting and there is always something going on.

When I first came to college, I didn’t know what I wanted to do after I graduated. I decided to major in animal science the second semester of my freshman year, mainly because I grew up on a farm and enjoyed raising animals for 4-H projects. Once I got through a semester of animal science, I decided I want to either do research or become a veterinarian. My professors have really pushed me to learn and have taught me how to motivate myself to study. Before, I wasn’t sure if I could be a vet, but I now have confidence in myself that I can do it.

The college has helped me find scholarships, including one from Southern States. This has meant a lot to me because, without this assistance, I would have had a lot of trouble paying for school. I already had some money saved up for college, but the scholarship helped to pay for an additional semester.

Initially, I was really surprised how close all the students in the college are. Everyone gets along with each other and helps each other out. You would think in a large university like Maryland that you wouldn’t know most of the people you’re in class with, but in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources everyone knows everyone else.

Advice to prospective students:
You should visit Maryland and take the time to meet the faculty. The College of Agriculture and Natural Resources is a small college in a big university so it has the benefits of both.

For more information, contact Elizabeth Weiss

Last updated: 07/20/2007