Lauren Kareem, the assistant director and curriculum coordinator of the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) CURE Scholars Program, moved to Baltimore in 2016. With a background in teaching the fifth, sixth, and eighth grades, she spends her time at UMB cultivating the future dreams and aspirations of middle school students from West Baltimore with an interest in science, technology, engineering, and math. She rents a home in Pigtown.

Assistant Director and Curriculum Coordinator
CURE Scholars Program
Pigtown Resident

How long have you lived in Pigtown?

We moved here in 2016 from right across the bridge in Brooklyn, Md. We originally moved to Maryland for my husband’s job, but eventually we ended up looking in the city because we wanted more space and closer proximity to both of our jobs. Baltimore is definitely unique compared to other cities I’ve lived before like Atlanta, Boston, and Houston.  

What made you want to move here?

I really enjoy the scenery. We’re situated right behind the B&O Railroad Museum, meaning we get great views of all the trains and the museum’s famous dome. The whole street is very quiet and safe, but Washington Boulevard is still close by. Our proximity to the Orioles and Ravens stadiums is a plus. I also love how active the community is. Everyone seems very involved and invested in the neighborhood. 

What is your relationship like with your neighbors?

I like my neighbors a lot. There are some students, professionals, and families — lots of people from different backgrounds. I enjoy living in a diverse neighborhood. They are all really friendly, too. A lot of us have each other’s cellphone numbers, just in case we need to get ahold of each other when we’re out of town or anything like that. I’ve lived in a lot of other cities, but I’ve never had that kind of relationship with my neighbors in any other place.  

What are some of your favorite things to do in the area?

My husband and I can easily go visit all of the shops and restaurants along Washington Boulevard. We especially like going to Breaking Bread. We also attended the Pigtown Festival this past year, and that was fun. Aside from the local attractions, I especially enjoy going for walks in the area.