Five Fascinating Facts About The University Of Maryland

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — The University of Maryland (UMD) is more than just a flagship school — it’s a cornerstone of Maryland culture, packed with history, traditions and surprising stories. From Hollywood film sets to royal visits, UMD has played a role in moments many people don’t even realize. Here are five fascinating facts that might just change the way you see the University of Maryland.

Famous Filming

The UMD campus has been the center of many famous scenes in the movie industry. “National Treasure: Book of Secrets” and “The House on Sorority Row” are two notable examples, but perhaps the most noteworthy is the 1985 film “St. Elmo’s Fire,” which shot scenes at Fraternity Row at the University of Maryland campus.

“St. Elmo’s Fire” is actually a movie about graduates from Georgetown University, but they shot many scenes at UMD since Georgetown wouldn’t give the filming crew access to its campus.

The University of Maryland has deep roots in the film industry, further increasing the school’s cultural relevance in the United States.

Jim Henson Attended UMD

Larry David, Sergey Brin and David Simon are just a few of the popular names who attended the University of Maryland. Another notable public figure is Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets and the original voice behind Kermit the Frog.

Henson attended UMD in the mid-1900s, graduating in 1960 with a home economics degree. The puppeteer also met his wife, Jane Nebel, at the University of Maryland, making it a particularly special place in the story of Henson’s life.

Jim Henson is an icon that nearly every American can recognize, and his studies at UMD likely shaped him into the man he became. Today, a statue exists on the university’s campus to honor Henson, along with his most popular creation, Kermit the Frog.

Queen Elizabeth II’s First American Football Experience

Queen Elizabeth II attended her first football game at the University of Maryland. The queen wanted to experience American culture through a sporting event, and UMD was chosen for the occasion, placing a spotlight on the Maryland Terps.

The football game took place on Oct. 19, 1957, when the Maryland Terps went up against the North Carolina Tar Heels in front of the British royalty. Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II were present for the excitement, and the Terps managed to pull off a victory in front of their special guests.

This famous football event is known widely as the “Queen’s Game,” noting the significance of her attendance.

UMD’s Nuclear Reactor

Nuclear reactors are incredibly fascinating, but did you know that the University of Maryland has its very own? The Maryland University Training Reactor isn’t used for generating electricity but is instead a tool for education at the school.

The reactor was converted to a TRIGA core in 1974, making it more than 50 years old today. The University of Maryland is a very innovative school, and access to things like its nuclear reactor offers interesting opportunities to students.

A tool that’s been used to educate hundreds of students, the Maryland University Training Reactor is one of UMD’s most unique features and likely will remain so for decades to come.

The Point Of Failure

If you didn’t attend UMD or know someone who did, then you’re likely not aware of the infamous Point of Failure. The tale goes that students who step on a specific campus spot won’t make it to graduation, making this legend one of the most anxiety-inducing traditions for young students.

The Point of Failure is a circle made of concrete between LeFrak and Shoemaker halls, and it represents a tragic point of destruction during the Great Fire of 1912. Students are often warned by others to avoid stepping into the center of the circle where all of the lines connect.

A unique part of UMD lore, the Point of Failure is just one of many fascinating campus traditions at the College Park institution.

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