Being an out-of-state student at UMD can feel intimidating at first, but most students adjust quickly once they start meeting people, building routines and getting involved on campus. You may have to plan travel home more carefully, but you’ll also gain independence, meet students from across the country and have access to both College Park and nearby cities like Washington, D.C.
If you’re considering Maryland from another state, you’re probably wondering: Will it be hard to make friends? Will everyone already know each other? How often will I go home? Will College Park actually feel like home?
At Rambler College Park, we know that choosing a college is about more than academics. Where you live, who you meet and how quickly you feel settled all shape your experience, especially when you’re moving farther from home.
The good news is that you’re far from alone. Every year, thousands of students come to UMD from across the country, creating a campus community filled with people who are navigating the same transition. Whether you’re coming from New York, New Jersey, California, Florida or somewhere in between, here’s what you can expect as an out-of-state student at Maryland.
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You Won’t Be the Only One
One of the biggest concerns many students have before arriving is feeling like everyone else is from Maryland.
In reality, UMD attracts students from all over the country. In 2025, 24.8% of the University of Maryland student population were from out-of-state, and that number only continues to rise. While many students are from Maryland, you’ll quickly meet people from neighboring states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia and New York, as well as students from much farther away.
During your first few weeks on campus, you’ll likely hear people discussing where they’re from almost as often as their major.
Being from out of state is incredibly common, and it often becomes an easy conversation starter when meeting new people.
College Park Starts to Feel Like Home Faster Than You Think
Many out-of-state students worry about homesickness before arriving.
While it’s normal to miss family, friends and familiar routines, most students find themselves settling in surprisingly quickly.
Between classes, student organizations, football games, late-night food runs and meeting new people, your schedule fills up fast. You’ll develop favorite study spots, go-to restaurants and daily routines that make College Park feel like your own.
Some students even find themselves spending more time on campus than they originally expected because they’ve built such a strong community here.
Making Friends is Easier Than Anticipated
One advantage of being an out-of-state student is that you’re often more motivated to put yourself out there.
Since you don’t have high school friends nearby, you’re more likely to introduce yourself to classmates, attend events and join organizations.
Many lifelong friendships begin during the first few weeks of college through:
- Residence halls
- Student organizations
- Greek life
- Classes
- Intramural sports
- Study groups
- Orientation programs
The students who tend to have the best freshman experiences aren’t necessarily the most outgoing. They’re simply the ones willing to say yes to new opportunities.
Read Next: How to Find Roommates at UMD?
You’ll Learn Independence Quickly
For many students, attending UMD means living farther from home than ever before.
That can feel overwhelming at first, but it also creates opportunities to grow.
As an out-of-state student, you’ll likely learn how to manage your own schedule, budget your spending, handle travel plans, coordinate housing decisions and navigate challenges independently. These are skills you’ll use long after graduation.
While calling home for advice never goes away, many students discover they’re capable of handling far more on their own than they initially realized.
Getting Home Takes More Planning
One of the biggest differences between in-state and out-of-state students is travel.
Weekend trips home aren’t always realistic when you live several states away. Instead, many students plan visits around:
- Fall Break
- Thanksgiving Break
- Winter Break
- Spring Break
- Summer Vacation
Depending on where you’ll live, you may find yourself becoming very familiar with nearby airports, train stations or long road trips.
The upside? Being farther from home often encourages students to stay on campus during weekends, which can lead to stronger friendships and more involvement in campus life.
You’ll Become an Expert Tour Guide
One unexpected part of being an out-of-state student is hosting visitors. At some point, friends or family will want to see your new home away from home.
Fortunately, College Park gives you plenty to show off. Popular spots include McKeldin Mall, Testudo, SECU Stadium, Downtown College Park and Washington D.C.
Being less than 10 miles from the nation’s capital is a major advantage that many students take full advantage of throughout their college years.
Read Next: Best Weekend Trips Within Two Hours of College Park
You’ll Gain Access to More Than Just a College Town
One thing that surprises many students is how much there is to do beyond campus.
Living at UMD means you’re connected to Washington D.C., Arlington, Alexandria, Baltimore and Annapolis.
Whether you’re looking for internships, museums, concerts, sporting events or weekend adventures, there are opportunities in every direction.
For many students, access to these cities becomes one of the biggest benefits of attending Maryland.
The UMD Alumni Network Is Everywhere
Another advantage of attending Maryland from out of state is joining one of the largest alumni networks in the country.
UMD graduates work across a wide range of industries and cities, creating valuable connections for internships, mentorship and future careers.
Many out-of-state students choose Maryland specifically because they know the degree and alumni network will extend well beyond the Mid-Atlantic region.
Is Being an Out-of-State Student at UMD Worth It?
For many students, absolutely.
While moving away from home can be challenging at first, it also creates opportunities to grow, build independence and meet people from a wide variety of backgrounds.
The friendships, experiences and confidence you gain often make the adjustment well worth it.
By the time graduation arrives, many out-of-state students find themselves feeling just as connected to Maryland as classmates who grew up a few miles from campus.
Read Next: 9 Best Things to Do Near UMD Campus
Being an out-of-state student at UMD comes with unique challenges, from navigating travel logistics to adjusting to life away from home. But it also offers incredible opportunities for growth, independence and connection.
The students who thrive are often the ones who embrace the experience fully, explore new opportunities and take advantage of everything Maryland has to offer.
Ready to find your home away from home? Schedule a tour at Rambler College Park North or Rambler College Park South. We would love to show you around.
Allison
Allison is a Property Marketing Intern for Rambler College Park. She's a student at the University of Maryland, majoring in Marketing and Management. Her favorite drink to order is a vanilla iced latte!
Published On: August 28, 2026
Last Updated On: August 6, 2026
