Students give back to support the university that’s preparing them for lifelong success.

Each year, the UMass Amherst community comes together in support of UMassGives, a two-day crowdfunding initiative that raises money for scholarships, student organizations, research, and other areas that enrich the UMass Amherst experience.

This year, a group of student ambassadors from the Manning College of Information and Computer Sciences (CICS) stepped up to publicize the opportunity to support their college through UMassGives. They helped by creating a promotional video, amplifying UMassGives messaging with their networks, and tabling to increase awareness on campus.

Khushi Rajoria ’26 was among those to raise her hand. Rajoria, a junior majoring in computer science with a minor in business, says she has had an incredible experience at UMass so far and is eager to pay it forward.

“[As an ambassador], I was involved with brainstorming about what events we can do, how we can make UMassGives a success, and spreading the word among our peers and friends to get as many donations as we can,” she says. “It’s my way of giving back to the community, since I have the time and resources to do so. That feeling is amazing. Representing the CICS community makes me happy.”

UMassGives is one of many ways for students to participate in philanthropy. The CICS student ambassadors, for example, are also involved with the Manning CICS Class of 2025 Senior Gift Campaign, supporting the efforts to raise funding for the installation of a device charging station in the CICS building. Through last year’s efforts, the Class of 2024 funded the purchase of two apple trees, planted next to the new Manning CICS building, opening this fall, as a lasting tribute to the class.

Talk About Giving (TAG) Days offers another opportunity for students to engage. Hosted by the Student Alumni Association (SAA), TAG Days enable students to learn about the impact of philanthropy and acknowledge the donors that have strengthened their experience on campus. Events held throughout the month help build a culture of gratitude and giving at UMass Amherst, showcasing how students can play a role in giving back to the university they love and pay it forward for future generations.

Highlights from this year’s TAG Days included a philanthropy trivia competition that drew 169 students, 1,025 thank-you postcards written to donors, a drive to collect donations for the Student Care Supply Closets, and volunteer service days at organizations in the Amherst area.

Rajoria encourages other students to give back in whatever ways they can.

“When [students] have the time and resources, it’s a good idea to be involved in initiatives like this. It’s about giving back to the community and the school in any way you can. Philanthropy is helping people in any possible way you can; it’s not always about money. There are many ways through which you can help people.”

Follow the Student Alumni Association on Facebook and Instagram to see how they are supporting UMass and check out the Minutefund to support student-led campaigns. 

CICS alumni are also encouraged to visit the CICS alumni page for information on ways to get involved.