2008 Woodie Awards
Baltimore Collegetown Network Benefits Students
Kimberly Trompeter
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Having the resources to network with the nearly 100,000 college students, 15 local colleges and dozens of businesses in the Baltimore area is something most University of Baltimore students haven’t been aware of.
The Baltimore Collegetown Network (BCN), a non-profit organization dedicated specifically to college students, makes such a network possible.
Since its establishment in 1995, the BCN has served as a means for students to grow both academically and professionally. By using BCN, members can cross-register for up to two classes per year at the 15 member institutions and use their libraries. Other institutions include Baltimore Hebrew University, Maryland Institute College of Art, Johns Hopkins University, Towson University and Villa Julie College, among others.
BCN also works with college career centers and local businesses to help students find internships and jobs. In addition, UB students can use the network to learn more about Baltimore, find roommates and receive discounts at local restaurants, bars, theatres, lectures and concerts.
However, helping current students network within the Baltimore area is just half of what BCN has to offer. In fact, their network continually benefits the city by attracting new college students.
According to the BCN’s 2004 Annual Report, available on the organization’s website, “Each year, nearly 60,000 prospective students and parents visit Baltimore campuses. While they are here, they stay in local hotels, eat in restaurants and enjoy cultural attractions.”
“The Collegetown Network is a hidden gem for students,” said Rob Hradsky, vice provost for enrollment management and student affairs, who believes BCN is an organization that deserves more attention on the UB campus.
Heather Harlan, publications design student, said, “I have heard of Collegetown but have never used it.” She admits to seeing the flyers around campus, but having never further investigated the program.
It’s time for UB students to start taking advantage of this resource. Simply logging on to www.baltimorecollegetown.
org is all it takes to access BCN. Since UB is already a member—and has been a member since the program began—services from the organization are free for students.
“Like many UB students, I am a busy person,” said Harlan. “Although I’ve never used Collegetown, if it’s going to benefit me professionally and give me student discounts all over Baltimore, I am definitely willing to learn more.”
Trompeter is a staff writer at The UB POST
ktrompeter@gmail.com
Baltimore Collegetown Network
web – www.baltimorecollegetown.org