Didac Hormiga ’19 Pioneers His Path

Victor Mullins, associate dean of the undergraduate program at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business, recently interviewed Smith Sophomore Didac Hormiga’19 to discuss how he is “pioneering his path” 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.

Didac: I got involved in various clubs, programs and events on campus and was able to expand my network of business professionals, students, professors and alumni through my involvement in the BSE Scholars program and terpAMA. I was also accepted into Hinman CEOs and the QUEST Honors programs.

Dean Mullins: How about your sophomore year? How are you “pioneering your path?”

Didac: My roommate, Zach Joyner, and I created a startup company called Pinr, a location-based social media app that helps people find out about events going on nearby. We are working on the development of the app, and we plan to release it on the App Store next semester. Attending advising sessions with business professionals at the Smith’s Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship has helped me greatly. In addition to Pinr, I have been doing web and graphic design for terpAMA and was promoted to be Director of Visual Media. I have also become more involved in the BSE Scholars Program by becoming a Peer Mentor and a TA for the weekly freshmen colloquium. I will continue to stay involved on campus, grow my network, and use as many of the available resources on campus to successfully “pioneer my path.”

Dean Mullins: What advice would you give to freshmen? To your fellow Smith sophomores?

Didac: As intimidating as the many Smith School clubs and programs may seem, they offer incredible resources that everyone should utilize. These include countless workshops and networking opportunities with a variety of students, professors, and alumni who have experience in multiple fields of interest. The alumni connections from all over the world are invaluable, and can help you guide your own path, find an internship, or land a job.

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

Didac: Zach and I created Pinr in order to leave a mark on campus. The app gives back to the community by helping people connect with their peers, while promoting small local businesses and on-campus clubs. I hope that Pinr becomes a part of the social culture on campus, even after I’ve graduated. Additionally, I’m trying to give back by being a Peer Mentor. Last year, I had great people who helped guide my path, so I thought that being able to be a mentor for this year’s freshmen would be a great way to give back.

Dean Mullins: What is your dream?

Didac: Even though it’s hard to balance schoolwork with social life and with my goal of being an entrepreneur, I’m putting as much effort as I possibly can to make Pinr successful. I have always wanted to be a successful entrepreneur, graduate college and work for my own company. My dream is to be happy while making the world around me a better place, and I think the Smith School is definitely helping me achieve my dreams.

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

Didac: I am passionate about the Smith School because it has led to many of the best personal and professional relationships I’ve ever had. The Smith School is a rigorous and intellectually challenging community and is filled with students and faculty that I look up to. Engaging faculty and passionate mentors in the Smith School facilitated my transition into the University of Maryland. I am lucky to be a part of such a great community and professional network.

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