Sarina Haryanto '18 Commands Her 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 Sarina Haryanto’18 to discuss how she is “commanding his/her career” 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 Fellows programs 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.

Sarina: Before my first day of class, I participated in the Silicon Valley Innovation Immersion Trip offered through the BSE Scholars program. Exploring the technology hotbeds of Silicon Valley and the Pacific Northwest (Seattle, Washington, and Portland, Oregon) was a great start to my freshman year. I looked forward to visiting companies and meeting UMD alumni who shared stories about how their college experience prepared them for their respective career paths. The most memorable company visit was Starbucks headquarters because that is where I first discovered supply chain management. Following the trip, I adopted a proactive approach to building my brand by consistently learning outside of class. In addition to travelling to Southeast Asia and the UAE through two short-term study abroad programs, I participated in LeaderShape and applied for QUEST.

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

Sarina: The process of figuring out how to combine sustainability with supply chain management is positively challenging. From attending local community events and conferences to traveling across the globe for study abroad, I love to learn. I actively engage in work that aligns with my values. QUEST is a community for learning filled with extraordinary people who inspire me to continually improve. I look forward to visiting Japan with QUEST this winter break. It will be fascinating to see Japanese culture and how it has influenced their business practices.

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

Sarina: Take inventory of your life to identify what matters to you. Dedicate some time to reflect on your experiences and imagine what you wish to accomplish. It can be too easy to lose sight of your goals if you become overly involved in work and other activities. If you find that things are not adding value to your life, it is absolutely okay to pause and/or even quit. There is no need to overwork yourself and compete to be busy. You can still be much more productive with less in this busy world. Have an open mind to learn beyond your coursework and read in your free time. I find that attending and volunteering at conferences is a great way to develop yourself personally and professionally. Additionally, it is always a nice gesture to show appreciation to those individuals who have supported you along your Smith journey.

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

Sarina: As a Snider Undergraduate Research Engagement (SURE) Fellow in the inaugural cohort last spring, I had the fortunate opportunity to work with Professor Rajshree Agarwal and research how the values and ethics of companies in the steel-making industry influence business success. I love intellectually stimulating experiences like these because I can share my research findings in a paper and presentation. Volunteering at Spark! (the two-day idea festival) and the Social Enterprise Symposium has also allowed me to connect with students who are interested in entrepreneurship and sustainable business. Outside of the Smith School, I work for University Recreation and Wellness (RecWell) as a Water Safety Instructor and Active Terps Brand Ambassador. I love to teach swim lessons and encourage the UMD community to be active and live well.

Dean Mullins: What is your dream?

Sarina: My dream is to spread empathy by inspiring people to be more mindful of their actions. At the moment, I believe that I am living my dream and enjoying a fulfilling life. Working as a Supply Chain Intern at Cava Grill Support Center (headquarters) and volunteering as a Crisis Counselor for Crisis Text Line is meaningful to me. I aspire to help individuals become intrinsically motivated to practice social responsibility.

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

Sarina: I am passionate about the Smith School because of the opportunity to learn about social innovation. I attended the Social Enterprise Symposium (SES) in March 2014, which is where I first became aware of the power of business to solve social problems. The Center for Social Value Creation has had a profound influence on my career. I attended SES again this spring to further explore how sustainable businesses create a positive and social impact locally and globally. I appreciate being a part of Social Innovation Fellows because this hands-on experience is shaping my social impact career path in the right direction. Save the date for the 9^th Annual Social Enterprise Symposium on Friday March 3^rd, 2017!