Students participated in an American tradition by shopping on Black Friday, that day after Thanksgiving. They went to Wrentham Outlets as the sun was rising at 6:00 am to get a head start on the crowds. Students said they bought a lot of gifts to send to their families in China. They had a blast shopping and could have stayed all day!

Students took a quick break from their studies to help feed the birds and squirrels at MAIA. Participating in an American family tradition, the students made pine cone bird feeders! The bird feeders are hung up around MAIA's campus, allowing the students to observe the native wildlife of Massachusetts.

MAIA students, faculty, and staff joined together to celebrate Thanksgiving. On Tuesday, November 22nd the MAIA Kitchen staff provided a full Thanksgiving dinner including Turkey, Ham, Mashed Potatoes and more pies than students could eat! This was a chance for everyone in the MAIA community to thank one another for a great year so far and to reflect on their experiences here. Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving from our community to yours!

Over 50 former MAIA students (Alumni) joined us on Saturday, November 19th. These students came mostly from UMass Amherst and UMass Boston but have gone on to new schools and new studies. Alumni were able to meet current MAIA students and give them some insight into what university life is like (and how much they need to study!). Alumni were also able to have a great taco bar lunch, tie dye t-shirts, play on the new MAIA indoor court, and much more. At the end of the day Alum

MAIA Students took to the ice at Marlborough's Navin Skating Rink. Students had all skill levels, but they shared one thing in common: they had a blast!

Students had a ball last Wednesday attending an NBA basketball game between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks! The game was exciting, the Celtics pulling out a win in the last minute. It was an experience the students will never forget!

Students had a ball at the official 2016 MAIA One-on-One Basketball Tournament. Eleven students and one SA participated, with UMB student Tim Tan taking first place. It was a great chance for some friendly competition as well as a celebration of the opening of MAIA's new indoor athletics court!

Students unveiled their creative side with watercolors! We had some free spirited painters creating abstract paintings, and more classically inclined painters creating more traditional landscapes. Whatever the style was, the event was a wonderful opportunity for students to relax and express themselves.

Students let loose at MAIA's Halloween party. Many students took advantage of the face paint and the photo booth set up to take scary photos and have fun with friends.

Who is the best ping pong player in MAIA? The question was answered as students tested their skills against each other. Trophies were awarded to Brian Liu, 1st Place in the Men's Division and Lesley Tan, 1st Place in the Women's Division AND 2nd Place in the Men's Division!