Two adults and one toddler sitting in a golf cart, smiling together at graduation

Student Success

Wondering if UMF is Right for You?

With the support and guidance of our dedicated advisors and faculty, many students have gone on to achieve their professional and personal goals. If you have some college credits, are looking to complete your bachelor’s degree, and want more out of your career, you’ll feel right at home here.

But don’t just take our word for it — the stories of our students will show you what’s possible.

“I Thought College Wasn’t for Me”

Larissa Martin’s Story

Larissa Martin once believed she wasn’t made for college. After dropping out multiple times, enduring homelessness, and raising two kids on her own, college seemed out of reach.

But after relocating to Maine for a fresh start, Larissa earned her associate’s degree at Central Maine Community College and discovered she not only belonged in school—she thrived. She went on to complete her bachelor’s degree in liberal studies at UMF through the Degree Completion Program, all while working full time and parenting.

Now she’s setting her sights even higher: graduate school—and maybe even a doctorate. “Sometimes you just have to wait until it’s the right time. Now it’s priority number one.”

“It’s Never Too Late”

Vanessa’s Story

Vanessa was just one semester from earning her education degree in 2000 when life took a different turn—marriage and four kids. Though she loved being a stay-at-home mom, the dream of finishing her degree lingered.

Inspired by her father and grandfather, who both returned to school later in life, Vanessa re-enrolled at UMF in her mid-forties. Her goal had shifted—from teaching to becoming a speech pathologist after helping her children through speech therapy.

With just two classes left to earn her bachelor’s, Vanessa graduated Cum Laude in 2022 and took the next step toward graduate school.

Majors, Minors, Certificates, Master’s and Continuing Education

Next Steps

Your Journey Starts Here