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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.

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5 Study Hacks Tested by a USM Student

Finals are almost here, and a USM student put five popular study hacks to the test. Keep reading to find out which ones are actually worth your time — and which ones to skip.

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.

Bridgette smiling on the Eastern Promenade at sunset, overlaid with polaroid-style images: a lit-up Gorham campus soccer field, a picnic with friends, and her walking with a friend across a street. Dark blue doodles including a star, wave, location icon, and lines decorate the polaroids.

Class of ’26: Why I Chose USM — A Home Away From Home

As I near graduation, I’ve been reflecting on my four years at USM and the sense of belonging I felt from the very start. Keep reading to see how the campus, community, and experiences made it feel like a true home away from home.

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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.

USM women’s soccer seniors smiling and holding up four fingers to celebrate their Little East Conference win.

Class of ’26: Four Lessons From 4 LEC Championships

As my senior year at the University of Southern Maine wraps up, I’m reflecting on one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience: four straight Little East Conference (LEC) championships with our women’s soccer team. Keep reading to learn how those four championships shaped my perspective on leadership, teamwork, and legacy.

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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.

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10 Books I’m Reading as an English Major at USM

As a USM English major, I read a lot—some books changed my life completely, others not so much. Keep reading to discover my 10 top recommendations for fellow majors and book lovers, plus ways to find them at USM.