Community / November 3, 2016

Alvin Wang '18 Commands His Career

Alvin Wang '18 Commands His Career

Victor Mullins, associate dean of the undergraduate program at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business, recently interviewed Smith Junior Alvin Wang’18 to discuss how he is “commanding his career” 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 “built your brand” during your freshmen year.

Alvin: There were so many clubs and opportunities open to me, but I wanted to focus on opportunities that would allow me to grow both professionally and personally. Being admitted into the Business, Society, and Economy Scholars Program was one of the best things that happened to me as a freshman. I was able to hone my business acumen and learn to become someone who proactively pursues opportunities without the fear of failure. This drive led me to join Alpha Kappa Psi and the QUEST Honors Program, both of which are tight-knit communities with strong networks I can always rely upon.

Dean Mullins: How are you going to “command your career” during your junior year?

Alvin: I hope to study abroad next semester in Milan, Italy, and am excited for the opportunities to be exposed to new cultures, gain cultural competency, and test myself in a new environment. I will continue to be actively involved and will leave an impact on the various communities I am currently involved with by the time I graduate.

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

Alvin: I find many students are worried that they are not doing enough and want to do it all and then apply for everything. I think it is much more beneficial to streamline your activities and academics to fit your needs and wants. You will get more value-added to your college experience if you delve deeply into two to three activities, instead of trying to do ten. You will look back and vividly remember moments that have impacted and changed you, and those experiences will reflect in interviews and future work.

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

Alvin: As a member of the Smith Undergraduate Programming Board, I have played a role in creating and working on events that help create a cohesive community in the Smith School. We have planned events aimed at different class years to help everyone achieve his/her professional goals. My favorite event was “Smith Shakes,” when we offered free milkshakes to Smith students as they wrote thank you letters to their favorite Smith employees. In my QUEST class, we are focusing on projects involving our passions. I realized that I am passionate about accessible education for LGBTQ youth -- specifically, LGBTQ youth who are disowned from their families and do not have the resources to pursue a higher education. In this class, my team and I hope to find ways to tackle this problem, and make education more accessible to everyone. It will be a challenge, but I am looking forward to finding solutions.

Dean Mullins: What is your dream?

Alvin: I hope to find work that will allow me to promote diversity, inclusion and sustainability in the world. I want to play a part in finding ways to promote each of these issues in my everyday life -- which will include the business world.

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

Alvin: Because the Smith School has such a strong community feel to it, I always meet someone I know and end up having a conversation with them as I walk through the hallways. Students are always cheering each other on to do their best and be the best they can be. I appreciate such a supportive community and I know that I am always welcome here wherever I may end up in the future. 

For more information about the undergraduate program at Smith, visit: www.rhsmith.umd.edu/undergrad.

Media Contact

Greg Muraski
Media Relations Manager
301-405-5283  
301-892-0973 Mobile
gmuraski@umd.edu 

About the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business

The Robert H. Smith School of Business is an internationally recognized leader in management education and research. One of 12 colleges and schools at the University of Maryland, College Park, the Smith School offers undergraduate, full-time and flex MBA, executive MBA, online MBA, business master’s, PhD and executive education programs, as well as outreach services to the corporate community. The school offers its degree, custom and certification programs in learning locations in North America and Asia.

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