UMB Portraits is essentially UMass Boston’s take on Humans of New York. Brandon Stanton, the creator of HONY, has a way of making connections with people that otherwise might go unnoticed. The idea is to preserve moments, not necessarily defining moments, but moments. Because so many go by without a second thought.  
Connection is at the heart of this project. Who is being photographed in this moment? Who is being interviewed? What is a university but the individuals who spend their time here? All we know is that this moment happened — so welcome to it. Welcome to your university.  
What was your first memory?
“At my second birthday party I refused to blow out the candles.”
Why’s that?
“I don’t know…”
Do you have any advice for readers?
“Don’t take friends for granted. They won’t always be around.”
Why do you say that?
“A lot of my friends are graduating … I was the only freshman.”