Information about the Terp Academy event

Jump back in time and explore the rise of Michael Jackson. From Motown to MTV, Michael Jackson is embedded in the fabric of American popular music, and has defined what it means to be a star. Break it down in this class.

Professor Kelsey Klotz, Assistant Professor of Musicology and Ethnomusicology

We often ask questions about aliens in the universe and project our thoughts about them through the lens of science fiction. Interestingly enough, the definition of “life” is quite hard to define even for scientists. This class will explore some classic science fiction aliens, their earthly origins, and try to make sense of life from a scientific perspective.

Professor Marvin Q. Jones Jr., lecturer and academic advisor in the Department of Astronomy

In 1692, fear and suspicion swept through Puritan New England, culminating in the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Why did neighbors suddenly accuse one another of making pacts with the devil, and how did a legal system rooted in faith and community collapse into panic? In this talk, you'll explore the turbulent social world leading up to the crisis, how the region’s legal institutions failed to deliver justice, and the enduring mystery of what was really happening in Salem.

Professor Michael Ross, Professor and Researcher in the History Department

What does stress really do to your body and how does it change for women over time? This session explores how stress, hormonal shifts, and exercise shape blood vessel health across the lifespan. From early adulthood to midlife changes, discover how your body responds, adapts, and sometimes struggles;and how movement can help protect your long-term health. You'll also take a tour of the Human Integrative Physiology Laboratory to view demos of this work in action.

Professor Sushant Mohan Ranadive, Professor and Researcher in the School of Public Health

Did you know that UMD is home to a working bee lab managing honey bee colonies on and off campus for research and teaching? Join us for a behind-the-scenes hive tour and experience these brilliant pollinators up close. Peek inside an active colony and learn how the UMD Bee Lab supports research, education, and our broader ecosystem—plus enjoy a brief indoor presentation to round out the experience.

Step inside two cutting-edge Maryland labs at the IDEA Factory. Stop by the Robotics and Autonomy Lab, part of the Maryland Robotics Center, to meet some of the robots used in current research, including humanoid and quadruped robots, and learn how our team is advancing autonomy and human-robot interaction. Then visit the Alfred Gessow Rotorcraft Center, where rotorcraft engineers study the science of helicopter flight. See the future of vertical flight come to life with the electric Maryland Tiltrotor Rig, future Mars helicopter blades, and ship deck platforms for testing autonomous UAV landing at high seas.

Dive into the science and delicious world of fermentation at UMD! Tour the Fermentation Lab, Sample a selection of cheeses and beers while learning tips for exploring flavor, aroma, and texture like a pro. A tasty way to discover how top UMD faculty and students transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Ever wondered what really happens inside Xfinity Center when the lights go on?Join Maryland Athletics for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the current state of Terp Athletics, from how today’s coaches build culture and recruit talent to what it takes to compete at the highest level in the modern era of college sports. Then step onto the court yourself to work on your basketball skills.This is your all-access pass to Maryland Athletics.

Explore the newest experiential learning space in Special Collections and University Archives! At the Hornbake Library Letterpress Studio, you’ll discover the rich history of printing through rare materials from our collections, then bring that history to life yourself. Roll up your sleeves and print on historic 19th-century Washington hand presses, guided by experts along the way. You’ll leave with a Maryland-inspired print to commemorate your visit.

You will be prompted to make activity selections for the morning and afternoon block upon registration. All activities have a limited capacity and will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

If you have questions regarding your selection, please contact Natalie Ross at nross1@umd.edu.

Terp Academy is open to anyone ages 12 and up. Some lecture-style sessions and behind-the-scenes tours are geared toward adult learners, but there’s plenty for curious Terps of all ages to enjoy.

You can add up to 4 additional guests upon registering.

Please contact umdaa_events@umd.edu as soon as possible to request disability accommodations. The University of Maryland Alumni Association is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. In all situations, a good faith effort (up until the time of the event) will be made to provide accommodations.

Parking is available at the Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center. See campus map for more details.

We want you to be aware that significant road closures are planned for the summer for campus enhancements and Purple Line construction. To avoid major road closures, enter and exit campus from University Boulevard (Maryland Route 193) at the intersections with Stadium Drive (near The Clarice) and allow extra time to travel around campus. Your typical routes around campus may be closed and detours are likely to add additional travel time.

Directions to the Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center:

FROM ROUTE 193 (NORTH AND SOUTH)
Follow signs toward the University of Maryland.
Turn onto Stadium Drive.
At the traffic circle, take a slight right onto Alumni Drive.
The Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center will be on your left side in 0.1 mile.

Registration has reached capacity. Please join the waitlist and we will let you know whether or not we are able to take you off the list.