Place – Pack Chat

A music player graphic overlaid on a photo of pink magnolia blossoms and a white campus building, with the text "Pack Chat Playlist" and paw print icons inside a rounded rectangle frame.

Spring Semester in Songs: A Pack Chat Playlist

The Pack Chat playlist is here — songs on repeat from students, alumni, interns, athletes and more across the USM community. Keep reading to hear what the Pack has been listening to this semester.

A graduate in a cap, gown, and gold USM stole stands in the staging area at Cross Insurance Arena, looking ahead before the processional begins.

The Class of 2026, by the Numbers

On May 9, thousands of people packed Cross Insurance Arena for USM’s 146th Commencement ceremony. Keep reading to see the Class of 2026 by the numbers.

Bridgette Toland smiles in front of a flowering pink tree. Text reads "Dear USM," with an illustrated graduation cap drawn above her head.

Class of ’26: A Love Letter to USM

For four years, USM has been more than just a school — it’s been the place where I found my people, my purpose, and myself. Keep reading to hear what I wish I’d known sooner, and what I’m carrying with me as I go.

A collage of polaroid-style photos layered over the USM Gorham soccer field at sunset, featuring USM women's soccer players photographing the sunset on the field, posing together in a group photo, and smiling at an event with a metallic backdrop.

College Decision Day: What to Consider Before Committing to USM

College Decision Day falls on May 1 — and if you’re in the middle of the process, you know how much weight this date can carry. Keep reading to hear from Ani Roberts, a USM sophomore and women’s soccer player, on what actually made a difference once she got to campus — and what she’d tell her high school self today.

Thumbnail graphic with a blue background and colorful paper scrap overlays featuring three photos: a student photographing the ocean at the beach, the exterior sign for Portland Lobster Co., and Portland Head Light with the ocean in the background. Text reads "One Husky's Local Favorites" with white paw prints in the corner.

Class of ’26: My Favorite Places to Go and Things to Do as a USM Student in Southern Maine

From coffee dates and karaoke nights to beach days and ski trips, one graduating Husky shares her favorite ways to make the most of Southern Maine. Keep reading to find your next favorite spot.

Two students smile and talk at an outdoor table on a sunny day during USM freshman orientation, holding papers in hand.

5 Things I Wish I Knew as a College Freshman

Being a college freshman was one of the scariest experiences I’ve had — but looking back as a senior at the University of Southern Maine, I can see how much I’ve grown. Keep reading to discover the five things I wish I’d known from the very start.

Karoline Brechter as Sally Bowles and Ensemble in USM 2026 production of Cabaret.

Behind the Curtain: Cabaret

Take a look behind the scenes at how University of Southern Maine students, staff, and faculty turned Cabaret from an idea into a full production. Keep reading to see the process through the eyes of a lead performer and the stage manager who helped bring it all together.

Hand placing a coin into a small piggy bank on a wooden surface.

6 Ways to Save Money as a College Student at USM

Saving money in college can be a challenge — especially if you’re trying to manage spending for the first time. Keep reading to discover some practical ways to spend smarter and save money as a University of Southern Maine student.

What It’s Like to Be a Commuter Student at USM

Making major life decisions as a young adult isn’t always easy — something that becomes especially clear once you start college. A couple years ago, I made the choice to transfer to the University of Southern Maine and commute to classes while living at home.

Being a commuter student comes with challenges and I know it’s not for everyone. Keep reading to find out what works for me, and what my life looks like as a commuter student at USM.

The University of Southern Maine's Husky Line bus stops on the street to pick up students. The background around the bus is black and white, and there are hand drawn yellow stars on either side of the bus.

5 Things to Know About the Busky at USM

The Busky – also known as the Husky line on the Greater Portland Metro – is an amazing perk for University of Southern Maine students. Whether you’re a new Husky on campus or a Busky pro, keep reading for the five things every USM student should know.