A Uniquely Caring Culture

Being part of the UNE community means being involved. We call ourselves “right-sized,” meaning we have the resources of a large university but our campuses still maintain a small-college vibe. We’re a pretty tight-knit community where everyone is known and valued as an individual — in fact, our uniquely caring and inclusive culture is something visitors and first-year students often can’t help but comment on.

Two students take a photo together while wearing oversized sunglasses in front of a glitter background
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Three students playing a game with a ball and net on the Biddeford campus
Two students smile and chat while playing video games in the Nor’easter ESport Room
Three new undergrad students holding candles and Nor'easter t-shirts during First Night

The people at UNE are the kindest people. I could tell right away that it was a place I wanted to be.” 

— Ali Ross, Occupational Therapy ’20

Active and Engaged

It’s an extremely lively and active community, and there’s always something interesting happening. UNE has more than 100 student clubs and organizations, 18 sports teams, and a calendar loaded with events, performances, and lectures, so you’ll always be able to find an activity that’s enriching, enlightening, or just plain entertaining.

Learn more about life at UNE

The Way Life Should Be

You’ll also find that Nor’easters like to take full advantage of living in Southern Maine, with easy access to the ocean (our Biddeford Campus is literally on the beach), the mountains and lakes of central Maine, and vibrant arts and food scenes in downtown Portland, just minutes away from our Portland Campus.

Because UNE is a small school, it is easy to dive into the community and connect on a very personal level with both professional staff and other students.” 

— Becca Kryceski, Health, Wellness, and Occupational Studies ’20

Supporting the Whole Student

At some point, everyone needs a little extra support, and we have dedicated, caring professional staff who are there to ensure your journey at UNE is a successful one: academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. That’s the UNE approach to wellness.