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UMBC Snags Another Major Accolade

CATONSVILLE, Md. (WJZ) -- Nearly 20 years ago, few believed the then new president of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County when he announced he wanted to transform the campus into a world-renowned institution.

Now, as Mike Schuh reports, UMBC has snagged another major accolade.

For the third year, UMBC is the number one up-and-coming university in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report.

"I think it's a great institution and it helps people with their careers, and I think it's awesome that it's here in Baltimore County," said UMBC senior Nikki Morris.

"It's a culture on this campus unlike any other, it's a caring community, we're all in this together, it's a place where everyone on campus feels it's a special place to be a part of," said Dale Bittinger of UMBC Admissions.

Such recognition means the head of admissions has a harder job to do.

"It makes life more difficult for us, but that's a good thing. It casts a wider net and brings us the best and brightest students," said Bittinger.

This award is based on what college presidents and provosts are saying, and the 13,000 students say they know the difference between truth and hype.

"No it's not, it's true," said Bianca Varela.

"I think that's fantastic. It's great our institution is getting better, it benefits everyone who goes here," Morris said.

"I want to know why we're up-and-coming again. I think we should be up there, like you've arrived, yes, we've arrived," UMBC freshman Ben Walsh said.

In the coming months you'll see more of UMBC's President Freeman Hrabowski, as he is the subject of an upcoming 60 Minutes profile.

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