Every semester programs are offered to the student-athletes to encourage development in one of the five components of the program: academic excellence, athletic excellence, personal development, career development and community service.

In the past, national speakers have discussed such topics as Hazing, Drinking and Driving, and Safe Sex with UMBC student athletes. Smaller programs are also offered such as resume writing, talking with the media, and sports nutrition. Students-athletes are required to attend one program a semester, while the other programs are optional.

In conjunction with the evening workshops, all freshmen student-athletes are required to enroll in PHED 202, “An Introduction to an Honors University”. This course is designed to help prepare students for the academic and athletic rigors for life as a Division I Athlete. Study skills and social issues are discussed, as well as other information that is pertinent to student-athletes.

Overall, the UMBC CHAMPS/Life Skills program strives to provide our student-athletes with experiences and tools to help them be successful individuals in life after college.