David Rosenstein '20 Builds His Brand

Victor Mullins, associate dean of the undergraduate program at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business, recently interviewed Smith Freshman David Rosenstein ’20 to discuss how he is “building his brand” during his Smith journey.

So what does the Smith journey entail? During their freshman year, Smith students begin to build their personal brand through the SmithStart program. Sophomores dedicate their second year to pioneering their path to success by focusing on an overall academic and career strategy. Junior year focuses on students taking command of their careers during to ensure that they are well positioned for their professional journey. Finally, as a senior with an arsenal of tools, knowledge and networks, Smith students are able to embrace their experience and celebrate their success.

Dean Mullins: Reflect on how you are “building your brand” during your freshmen year. I do recognize that that you are in your first semester.

David: I try to take advantage of every opportunity the University of Maryland offers. I’ve found the best way to begin building my extroverted brand is to sink my feet into UMD’s campus by joining as many clubs and organizations that speak to my strengths and interests as possible. After attending the First Look Fair, I understood the message my tour guide reiterated during my college-search process: “There really is something for everyone at UMD.” Whether it be Images, UMD’s Chapter of the American Marketing Association (terpAMA), SmithOUT (Smith’s LGBT Club) or even Juggling Club, I strive to project my voice in an already-noisy room.

Dean Mullins: What advice would you give to fellow Smith peers?

David: Smith's Office of Career Services suggests freshmen remove high school involvements from their resumes after their first semester. As a result, I would suggest fellow Smith peers begin thinking of ways to build their new resumes as soon as possible. Use familiar fields and leadership positions highlighted on your 9th-12th grade resumes as a springboard for future involvement. For example, if you were involved in your high school’s student government, consider joining SUSA. If you used to be active in the band, perhaps Smith’s Maryland Music Business Society is for you. If you’re looking to explore a particular area of interest without declaring a second major, dive into the various organizations the Smith School offers such as Accounting and Business Association (ABA), terpAMA or Supply Chain Management Society (SCMS). Continuing similar experiences will widen your network, and participating in familiar clubs will make you feel “at home,” something the business school does exceptionally well.

Dean Mullins: How are you making your mark on campus?

David: I knew I would be on a campus of more than 30,000 students, in lecture halls that seat 200+, and in a highly reputable business school. So, even before the year began, I made it my mission to build connections with my advisors, administrative staff and professors across the disciplines. Although I have been in school for less than two months, through email exchanges, office hour visits and casual conversations, I have forged meaningful relationships with key school personnel who have made the Smith School feel much more intimate. In addition, I’ve tried to make a difference on campus within the organizations which I’ve joined. For example, as a current Tour Guide in Training, I will be able to share my personal experiences as well as my enthusiasm for UMD and hopefully inspire future Terps.

Dean Mullins: What is your dream?

David: My dream is to find a profession where I love what I do. Nothing excites me more than the possibility of waking up every morning and saying, “Holy cow; I get paid to do _________?!?”  While I’m not sure right now how I will fill in that blank, I know how I want to feel about my future path. Fellow Smith students may know me as that smiling front-row-sitting student, but my peers at home are aware of my secret double life… I’m actually a professional magician. After working this field for over a decade, I understand the idea of walking into each venue with a sense of excitement – I have been hired to leave guests with a feeling of joy and wonder. Ultimately, my dream is to feel equally passionate towards whatever opportunities I pursue in the future.

Dean Mullins: Why are you passionate about the Smith School?

David: My inspiring professors and the Smith School’s advisors have all the necessary resources for students’ success at their disposal. The Smith School is truly unique with the assistance it offers to its students. Having a day filled with check-ins from upperclassmen, such as my Scholars Peer Mentor, as well as adult advisors with whom I’ve developed strong relationships, gives me a sense of comfort and makes me feel honored to be a part of such a prestigious school. Everyone working at the Smith School is passionate about, and genuinely invested in, students’ successes inside and outside of the classroom... and that's infectious! I feel as though they’re cheering, “Come on David! Do great things! We’re here for you!”  This care and sense of community fostered by the Smith School make it an outstanding institution. I sometimes feel like I am about to burst with fiery passion when I think of the resources at my fingertips along with the caliber of educators that envelop me. I could not be more passionate for this school, all that it offers, the guidance I receive, and the opportunities that await me.