Community / November 3, 2016

Sameera Polavarapu '19 Pioneers Her Path

Sameera Polavarapu '19 Pioneers Her 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 Sameera Polavarapu ’19 to discuss how she is “pioneering her path” during her 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.

Sameera: This was the year to first understand what you wanted your brand to be, and then to learn how to shape that brand through the activities and academics. I tried to focus on my personal interests and used them to guide me. I knew that I loved interacting with others, writing, and developing a global, interdisciplinary mindset. These inherent predispositions led me to get involved with terpAMA and the Phi Chi Theta Business Fraternity, become a Linkedin Campus Editor, and apply for the QUEST Honors Program. I could see that my brand and core values were represented through the organizations I became involved with and the classes I chose.

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

Sameera: I am taking greater responsibility within each of the activities I participate in. I became the Director of Fundraising for the Executive Board of terpAMA and I teach an undergraduate colloquium for the Business, Society, and Economy Scholars program (BSE), which I was invited into as a freshman. By focusing on the organizations that have helped shape and represent my brand most accurately, I have been able to better understand the professional, social, and personal paths that most interest me.

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

Sameera: It is completely okay to be unsure of what you want to do but it is most important to make the most of all opportunities that come your way. You never know where they may lead you! Get involved. Try things out of your comfort zone. Diversify your interests and continue to grow by trying new things. It is never too late to get involved -- definitely don’t convince yourself that it is!

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

Sameera: I am always encouraging those around me to get involved and find their own niche at Smith. I joined QUEST Recruiting, run a Corporate Sponsorship team for terpAMA, and am always looking for new writers as a Linkedin Campus Editor. Through each of these activities, I am able to push those around me to search for fulfillment in activities, rather than solely doing things for their resume. I also really enjoy mentoring and interacting with the freshmen BSE students. By sharing what I’ve learned throughout my time at Smith, I’d like to think I am making my mark on campus.

Dean Mullins: What is your dream?

Sameera: My dream is to always maintain a positive mindset and give back to others as much as I can. I want to use what I have learned to do my own part in building a better world. I came into college knowing I wanted to grow my global mindset and work in an internationally driven industry so I’m pursuing an International Business and Marketing dual degree with a minor in Spanish. I hope use these skills to work in global marketing for large firms, improving the perceptions of cultures around the world, or to work in marketing/public relations for international organizations such as the United Nations.

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

Sameera: I see so many extraordinary people around me, whether they be faculty or my peers, who are eager to help me succeed and help me tackle any obstacle I may have. The Smith School has not only afforded me the opportunities to reach my goals, but also the motivation and support system to take advantage of them. I truly think each student has a place within our school.

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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