Beacon Leadership Project
Campus Center , 2nd Floor, 2300.08
100 Morrissey Boulevard
Boston , MA 02125 -3393
617-287-7953
blp@umb.edu
Speak Up
With each new class, you are given an opportunity to start over. You really wish you could make friends but never spoke a word last semester. The key word here is YOU!
Be friendly and outgoing, we promise it's not hard! Set the tone on the first day by simply being polite. Start small by saying good morning/afternoon/whatever and then introduce yourself to classmates sitting around you. Remember, start small, people love to hear about themselves so you are likely to make an even better impression by listening more than speaking. Ask them where they commute from and go from there. 
When it is time for the Professor to do their thing, pay attention and do not be afraid to ask questions if you do not understand the topic at hand. Even if you do get it, feel free to raise an appropriate example as a way to better your understandings. NEVER BE AFRAID TO LOOK LIKE A NERD! You are attending UMass Boston for one reason and one reason only - an education; do not be ashamed to learn!
Outside the classroom, friendly smiles and "How do you dos?" in passing make a world of difference. Hold the door open for the person behind you and do your best to always say please and thank you when dealing with others. I know it may seem like kindergarten, but showing respect for those around you will increase your chances of developing long lasting relationships.
HELPFUL SITES