Students standing in circle on campus for McDaniel Local.

Our Guarantee to You

For 150 years, we have prepared students to become leaders and visionaries in their industries. But as the world continues to change, we have strengthened our focus on developing students as a whole for their next professional steps. We do that through The McDaniel Commitment.

The McDaniel Commitment

Consisting of series of opportunities promised to all students, the McDaniel Commitment provides enhanced mentoring and coaching, and ensures every undergraduate student completes at least two meaningful experiential learning opportunities. The McDaniel Commitment is our guarantee that the moment a student sets foot on the Hill will be the first step on a path to success.

My Place

Beginning with our summer McDaniel Local experience, students develop a sense of belonging on campus, engage in team-building activities, and make connections in downtown Westminster. Mentored by upperclassmen, professors, and staff, students develop a growth mindset to nurture their personal and intellectual growth over the next four years and beyond.

Students sitting at outdoor tables on campus.

My Design

During their first January Term, students explore their strengths, identify areas of desired improvement, develop goals, and chart a purposeful path to help them cultivate their potential while at McDaniel. Through collaborative activities, self reflection, and alumni connections, students articulate how a liberal arts education will help them achieve their goals.

Student-faculty researchers senior Phuc Truong, senior Jake Holechek, Chemistry professor Dana Ferraris and senior Bobby Lease.

My Experience

Hands-on, immersive experiences allow students to reflect on the intersection between theory and practice and help them stand out when applying for jobs. Students can study overseas, engage in community based learning, intern with a local organization, conduct cutting edge research alongside a faculty member, or take on leadership roles on campus.

An employer talks to students at a job and internship fair.

My Career

Students plan for life beyond college, guided by purposeful coursework and with one-on-one coaching from our Center for Experience and Opportunity. They learn to write their best resumes, maximize online networking, and meet with alumni and other professionals as they prepare for their next steps after graduation.

The Impact of My Design

“My Design really opened my eyes to all my possibilities. Before Jan Term I had a very fixed mindset of what I wanted to do. This class made me realize that I needed or should have multiple paths for a career. I also learned a lot about myself and places of growth. It helped me to become a better me and become even more driven.”

Courtney Schlotterbeck, '22