0_Apprentice
I study philosophy at umass
1_Wizard
That's impressive. It's a huge university - the biggest in New England I believe. How many years have you been there?
0_Apprentice
I barley started there. I heard they had a good research facility. Is that true?
1_Wizard
If spending is anything to go by, yes they do. In 2014 UMass research expenditures were over $200 million!
0_Apprentice
Wow, that's insane! How do they rank in comparison to other universities?
1_Wizard
The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching has categorized it as a Research University with Highest research activity - quite an achievement.
0_Apprentice
When was the school founded?
1_Wizard
I think 1863 or thereabouts. 
0_Apprentice
Who are some famous people that have attended umass?
1_Wizard
The only one I can think of offhand is Marcel Shipp, former running back. He's now the current coach.