Three Questions With ... Amanda Turner

What is something you do as part of your position that people may not be aware of?

I have the opportunity to table and promote the SCCS department, along with programs like Restorative Practices and Green Dot, our Bystander Intervention program. It’s always so much fun to talk with students across campus and hear their perspectives on building community and preventing power-based violence. These conversations leave me feeling inspired and hopeful, knowing that students are eager to find meaningful ways to improve their communities. Plus, a student mentioned they thought I was younger than I am—and as someone approaching 30, I counted that as a small win!

What is one of the most important things you’ve learned during your time here? 

It might seem obvious coming from a university employee, but one of my biggest takeaways has been recognizing how important and continuous learning is throughout life. My experiences at UMBC have encouraged me to be more intentional and open about learning from people of different ages, perspectives, and walks of life. I’m learning to be fearless from my three-year-old nephew, just as I’m learning to be a better professional from my UMBC peers—and it’s been a lot of fun!

What do you like to do for fun and/or is something you are passionate about outside of work? 

I love going to karaoke, especially with my family. It combines three things I excel at: singing badly, dancing badly, and loudly supporting others. I love that the biggest priority is to be judgment-free and just have a great time! I also have to mention my love for keychains—it’s a collection I’m determined to keep adding to, despite its increasing weight and decreasing practicality.