Meet the Smith Ambassadors

Smith Ambassadors are the face of the Smith Undergraduate Program for prospective and admitted business students. Smith Ambassadors is a diverse group of outstanding students with a wide array of involvements both within the Smith School and beyond. We work to inform and recruit the best and the brightest students through interactive presentations, guided tours, and impactful personal communication.

Manasa Alur

Class of 2025
Major(s): Finance and Economics (BSOS)
Hometown: Ellicott City, Maryland

“Join the clubs you are interested in and talk to as many professors you can to get information on plans for college and post-grad, it’s a great way to get some insider information on the fields and careers you could end up in.”

Areeba Asim

Class of 2026
Major(s): Accounting
Hometown: Huntingtown, Maryland

“The more time I've spent with other students, professors, and exploring different paths in the business world that the Smith School provides its students, the prouder I've felt of my decision to be a student here.”

Folabomi Awosika

Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Supply Chain Management
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria

“My Freshman Orientation in Fall 2022 felt like the start of a new chapter of my life.”

Britney Ayala

Class of 2025
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Frederick, Maryland

“My favorite Smith memory is working with the Smith Community Council and Diversity Equity Council. It's been a great experience meeting new faculty and working with like-minded peers who are passionate in making Smith the best version of itself.”

Marissa Behal

Class of 2027
Major(s): Business Undecided
Hometown: Holmdel, New Jersey

“My biggest piece of advice would be to get involved early and go to every event! You never know what events are going to be beneficial and what connections you will make, going in with an open mind is the best way to be successful.”

Eileen Chen

Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland

“My favorite thing about Smith is THE COMMUNITY. You'll hear everyone say this, but it's so true. Everyone here is so welcoming and it's like having a huge friend huddle every time you walk through the Smith hallways because you can't walk to class without bumping into someone you know.”

Joseph Chung

Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Accounting
Hometown: Towson, Maryland

“Really explore your interests within the business school, find what you like, and then stick with it!”

Ula Cieslak

Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance & Accounting
Hometown: Kensington, Maryland

“One thing I love about Smith is that there is always someone to turn to, whether it is about academics, extracurriculars or anything else. Everyone is super friendly from fellow students to faculty and it makes it easy to build a community on campus.”

Brooke Cowan

Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Upper Marlboro, Maryland

“My favorite Smith memory is when I took a trip to NYC with Smith in the City. It was definitely an amazing experience seeing UMD alumni successful and learning how their education and experience translated into their careers.”

Anne Egbe

Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Bel Air, Maryland

“Being a part of Smith has helped me grow academically and personally, teaching me valuable skills for both my professional and personal life.”

Nina-Netanya Enwesi

Class of 2027
Major(s): Operations Management & Business Analytics and Information Science (I-School)
Hometown: Upper Marlboro, Maryland

“Make connections, don’t be afraid to meet new people and get your name out there. Have an open mind coming into this school, you’ll be exposed to many things that you have no prior knowledge about so be open to taking these things in.”

Lucia Fernandez de Bobadilla Perea

Class of 2026
Major(s): Marketing
Hometown: Madrid, Spain

“As a transfer student, my advice is to dive in! Join clubs, connect with your professors, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Smith has so many resources, and taking advantage of them will make your transition smoother and more rewarding.”

Annyee Foo

Class of 2027
Major(s): Management and Information Systems
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland

“College is a time to explore! Hop into anything you're interested in, it never hurts to just try.”

Nathaniel Goldstein

Class of 2025
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Boonsboro, Maryland

“I love being a Smith Ambassador because it allows me to feel a sense of pride when showcasing the incredible programs, collaborative culture, and transformative experiences that define Smith as a whole.”

Emily Greenwald

Class of 2027
Major(s): Information Systems and Marketing
Hometown: Ellicott City, Maryland

“I love being a Smith Ambassador because I’m so passionate about Smith and everything it has to offer. I love sharing my experiences, answering questions, and helping others see how special Smith can be for them—just like it has been for me.”

Ezekiel Gunawan

Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland

“Take advantage of all the organizations that Smith has. Whether you are in Smith or not, there are a plethora of organizations that you can join that can teach you valuable insights on business, internrship/job recruiting, career tracks, and fields. As a Freshman Connection transfer, I joined a professional business fraternity and pan-asian business club, where I was able to meet upperrclassmen that mentored me before and after I got into Smith.”

Arihant Gupta

Class of 2025
Major(s): Finance and Computer Science (CMNS)
Hometown: Monroe Township, New Jersey

“Never give up on yourself, it may take you 15 tries to do something but trust me, each try only makes you better.”

Julion Harris

Class of 2026
Major(s): Management and Marketing
Hometown: Brandywine, Maryland

“Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Put yourself out there, be a go getter, and never compare yourself to anyone else.”

Therman Hawkins III

Class of 2026
Major(s): Marketing
Hometown: Bowie, Maryland

“I love being a Smith Ambassador because I get to give back to the community that has served me so much. I am able to inspire the next generation of leaders and change-makers to enroll in an institution that will develop them into the best people imaginable.”

Jimmy Herman

Class of 2026
Major(s): Information Systems
Hometown: Marriottsville, Maryland

“I have found an amazing community of people within Smith that I have been able to connect with professionally and socially.”

Rory Jenkins

Class of 2028
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Severna Park, Maryland

“The Smith school provides so many opportunities to be involved and find friends.”

Katiti Kajubi

Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Management
Hometown: Silver Spring, Maryland

“My favorite Smith memory is my first Career Fair. Breaking out my blazer for the first time at the Career Fair with my friends was unforgettable! It was a bit nerve-wracking, but the experience was so fulfilling. I loved feeling all dressed up and business-like while connecting with so many people.”

Caleb Kang

Class of 2028
Major(s): Information Systems and Finance
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

“I want to help prospective students and their families see just how special this community is. Smith has already had such a positive impact on my life, and I’m thrilled at the chance to represent this amazing school and inspire others to join our community.”

Aleeza Khan

Class of 2025
Major(s): Information Systems and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Clarksville, Maryland

“I like getting to share my experience of finding my passion and my people, so I can help others do the same.”

Jeff Kyei-Asare

Class of 2025
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Silver Spring, Maryland

“I am excited to advocate for all the great ways Smith has helped me and as a transfer student, entrepreneur, and business owner, as well as a student leader.”

Hannah Li

Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Boyds, Maryland

“Have fun and talk to people in your classes because these are the people you will see every other day. Additionally, take advantage of the resources and opportunities that Smith offers, there are so so many.”

Veronica Lijeron

Class of 2026
Major(s): Operations Management & Business Analytics and Information Systems
Hometown: Metuchen, New Jersey

“I love Smith because of the communities that it fosters. While UMD is a large school, the Smith organizations, faculty, and students make our community close-knit. There is hardly ever a time when I can walk down the halls without saying hi to someone I know, and it feels like we are in a "family," supporting each other.”

Carter Majmudar

Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Fairfield, Connecticut

“I am looking forward to showing prospective students that apart from the overall university, the Smith school has a wealth of resources and services available that can further improve people's academic experience.”

Srujan Mandavilli

Class of 2028
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Woodstock, Maryland

“Smith has lots of opportunities for students to learn and grow.”

Abigail Manga

Class of 2025
Major(s): Information Systems
Hometown: Fort Washington, Maryland

“I enjoy sharing my journey with new Smith students and giving them advice on how to make the most out of their time here!”

Stephen Mickus

Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Mount Olive, New Jersey

“You do not need to have your career path set already. Follow your interests and craft your own story.”

Jaselle Minge

Class of 2027
Major(s): Management and Marketing
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland

“Try your best to put yourself out there, especially in your classes. Sit next to someone new and try to start a conversation. You never know how impactful that relationship will be!”

Salma Mohamed

Class of 2025
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Silver Spring, Maryland

“Step out of your comfort zone and get involved as much as you can. Joining clubs and organizations can help you find your community, and don’t hesitate to ask for help—whether it’s about classes, internships, or adjusting to campus life. People are often more supportive than you realize. Take things one step at a time, and remember to give yourself grace as you settle in.”

Katie Monahan

Class of 2025
Major(s): Marketing
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland

“Try and make new friends in your classes every semester! Even after your first day of freshman year, you should continue being open to meeting new people. Making friends with similar academic interests can help you thrive academically and socially.”

Joanie Morningstar

Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and International Business
Hometown: Ellicott City, Maryland

“My favorite Smith memory was being a SBLF mentor. It was so exciting to see how much my group of freshman grew from their first day on campus to their final presentations after their first semester. Our students are truly amazing and our professors create an environment that encourages learning and growth.”

Michael Nino-Aguilar

Class of 2026
Major(s): Accounting
Hometown: Silver Spring, Maryland

“I am excited to showcase all aspects of Smith to incoming members of the community. Smith has shaped me to be the professional that I am today.”

Miriam Oke

Class of 2024
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Brooklyn, New York

“You never stop making friends, whether it's your very first day on campus, or it's time to walk across the stage, so make sure you keep yourself open to new poeple and experiences.”

Reena Patel

Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Rising Sun, Maryland

“The Smith community is incredibly inviting, and I feel supported every step of the way. There are so many events and opportunities within Smith that allow you to explore different career paths and learn exactly what you want to pursue in the future.”

Ashley Patterson

Class of 2028
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Parkton, Maryland

“My favorite Smith memory is The Smith in the City trip! Never could I have imagined that during my first semester freshman year, I would be walking into the NYC offices of firms like Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. The trip brought me out of my comfort zone by challenging my networking skills, while learning about the various careers in the finance field. I left the trip feeling ambitious and excited about my future professional career.”

Hunter Pearlstein

Class of 2027
Major(s): Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Old Bethpage, New York

“Sharing perspective with others is what I enjoy. If I can influence someones decision to make their college experience better, I would be so honored to be a part of it.”

Margot Ramsey

Class of 2027
Major(s): Management and Supply Chain Management
Hometown: Annapolis, Maryland

“Smith gives you the tools and resources to succeed, and you should really take advantage of those opportunities.”

Ben Resnick

Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Accounting
Hometown: Needham, Massachusetts

“I love being an ambassador because I get the opportunity to help prospective and admitted student who are in my old shoes. I had so many questions as a prospective student, and did not know much coming into Smith, and I love being that helping hand.”

Becky Rodriguez

Class of 2028
Major(s): Marketing
Hometown: Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey

“I’m excited to be a Smith Ambassador because it gives me the opportunity to share what makes the Smith community so special. Helping others discover a place where they can grow and truly feel a sense of belonging is incredibly rewarding.”

Aspen Rosner

Class of 2027
Major(s): International Business and Marketing
Hometown: West Hartford, Connecticut

“My favorite Smith memory is the convocation BBQ my freshman year!!”

Joselyn Salazar

Class of 2028
Major(s): Marketing
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland

“Be open to trying new things, you never know what might be a missed opportunity.”

Anjali Sharma

Class of 2026
Major(s): Information Systems, Marketing, and Economics (BSOS)
Hometown: Gaithersburg, Maryland

“My favorite Smith memory is rubbing Testudo’s nose for the first time!”

Marvi Shroff

Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Clarksburg, Maryland

“Being an ambassador for the Smith School is one of my favorite roles because it allows me to share the incredible sense of community Smith has provided me. From supportive friends to incredible professors, Smith has been a place where I’ve grown both personally and professionally. I love being able to connect with prospective students, share my experiences, and show them what makes Smith such a special place.”

Jordan Sternschein

Class of 2028
Major(s): Information Systems
Hometown: Rye Brook, New York

“It truly has been inspiring to be a part of the supportive and empowering Smith community. From the dedicated students to the prestigious faculty and alumni, Smith has it all. I am passionate about sharing my experiences with prospective students so they can see that Smith could be their perfect fit, just as it is mine.”

Kerry Techwei

Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Lanham, Maryland

“Get involved with the organizations here at Smith. Build relationships and friendships with people who are going to challenge you and push you to do better and be better.”

Elijah Thompson

Class of 2025
Major(s): Management and Information Systems
Hometown: Clarksburg, Maryland

“Don't be afraid to say hello to someone near you (and back if you're receiving it). Smith is a special community for you at UMD, so take advantage of it and make new friends! You might learn something about yourself along the way as well.”

Lisset Vargas

Class of 2027
Major(s): Information Systems and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Riverdale, Maryland

“This new chapter of your life that you’re walking into comes with so many opportunities. Take hold of them and make the most out of your time at the Smith School. There is something for absolutely everyone, you just have to be willing to try!”

Grayson Vintz

Class of 2025
Major(s): Finance and Accounting
Hometown: Clarksville, Maryland

“The community I found here at Smith is top-notch and I am honored to give back to this community and help recruit people to join our family.”

Donovan Wayman

Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland

“Smith has so many things to offer, but it is up to you whether you take advantage of it. You have the potential to exponentially change and grow if you remain intellectually curious about everything you do, so just stay curious.”

Catie Wilson

Class of 2027
Major(s): Marketing and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Easton, Massachusetts

“My favorite Smith memory is when I got to meet other Smith students at the Freshman Convocation during my first week at UMD.”

Sanaz Wyckoff

Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Potomac, Maryland

“Keep an open mind and try to be as involved as possible while maintaining a balance. The first semester can be a big adjustment making friends and finding your place. With time and patience, everything works out.”

Christopher Yeh

Class of 2026
Major(s): Information Systems and Supply Chain Management
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland

“College is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, make sure to make the most of it by being curious and trying everything to find what makes you happy! Never be afraid to ask for help!”

Vincent Yu

Class of 2025
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Potomac, Maryland

“One of my favorite Smith School memories is attending a networking event with McKinsey. It was inspiring to hear firsthand insights from people who work at the industry-leading firm. The event not only expanded my knowledge of the company and the consulting industry but also motivated me to pursue my own career goals with passion and determination.”