AP Research students took a field trip to the University of Maryland (UMD) on Oct. 28 and 29, where they got a firsthand look at college-level research, academic resources and campus life. The trip lasted one school day, and students could choose to attend on either date. It was organized by AP Research teachers Michelle Hanson and Brett Bentley, and it included both juniors and seniors currently enrolled in the research program.
The goal of the trip was to help students gather reliable academic materials for their year-long research projects. Because the course requires students to find and analyze sources independently, the visit to UMD’s McKeldin Library provided a unique opportunity to access databases, journals and printed materials not available through high school resources. During the visit, students created UMD guest accounts to access the university’s extensive online catalog and explore its academic facilities. “I spent most of my time in the library just researching, looking at books and checking out new sources that I only had access to because of UMD,” junior Meara Liebetrau said.
The experience was memorable for students, not just because of the information gained, but because of the environment itself. “My favorite part of the field trip was the bus ride because of how it was connecting with fellow researchers, but I also really enjoyed being in the library and scanning the different topics that were there that didn’t even relate to mine. The McKeldin Library has such a huge selection of books that range from various periods of time, and it was nice scanning through them and seeing what a genuine library feels like,” junior Peace Tiam Megne said.
In addition to spending time in the McKeldin Library, students were allowed to visit specialized libraries across campus related to their topics. Along the way, they interacted with UMD staff and librarians while setting up accounts and navigating the catalog.
The trip wasn’t all work, as students got to experience a glimpse of college life. “I got to see students studying, all the books and materials they have to offer and then got lunch in the Stamp Student Union food court. Seeing my friends who are now freshmen in college and seeing the college campus life was the most memorable part of the day,” junior Esha Khosla said.
Students were able to see what college life might look like for them in the future. “I learned how to find different articles and use the UMD library catalogue. I was also able to see how college life is, how people commute from class to class and all the buildings on campus and what they have to offer. At first, I didn’t really want to go to UMD, but after going and seeing everything they have to offer and their environment, it changed my perspective on the school,” Khosla said.
Overall, the trip gave AP Research students a meaningful mix of academic growth and real college-life experience that will support them throughout their year-long projects.
