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Valerie Z.

Tour Guides and Grit Guide at University of Maryland, Baltimore County

She/her/hers

Class of 2026

Hometown: Frostburg, MD

Major: Biological Sciences


Favorite Local Shop or Restaurant

Pho Saigon in Catonsville! It takes about a 10 minute drive if you have a car, or you can take the UMBC transit into the city!

My advice to prospective students...

It isn't easy to go somewhere unfamiliar and being anxious/nervous is totally okay! Just know that everything will end up okay and try to keep an open and positive mind: it helps a lot!

How has UMBC helped you grow?

UMBC has helped me grow into my own person, allowing me to expand my personality and experience new people! The community that UMBC creates for each student allowed me to flourish socially!

Favorite Spot on Campus

The stairs and benches next to the Library Pond! I love to see how the pond looks different in the changing seasons and my favorite times to go is when no one else is around and enjoy the tranquility!

I'm passionate about...

Art (drawing/painting) Photography Clarinet Piano Academics

I'm involved with...

Environmental Task Force Club Ice Hockey Club Volleyball
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