Melissa Fellman '18 Discusses Strategic Design and Innovation Fellows Program

Victor Mullins, associate dean of the undergraduate program at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business, recently interviewed Melissa Fellman ’18 to discuss her involvement with Strategic Design and Innovation Fellows and how it is part of her Smith journey.

Successful navigation of the Smith journey requires involvement with colleagues, professors, professionals, clubs, and organizations here at the Smith School, across campus and in the outside “real” world of business.  Here is what students are challenged to do in each of their four years at Smith:

• Freshmen: “Build Your Brand” through the SmithStart program.
• Sophomores: “Pioneer Your Path” to success by focusing on an overall academic and career strategy.
• Juniors: "Command Your Career” to ensure that you are well positioned for your professional journey.
• Seniors: “Embrace Your Experience” with an arsenal of tools, knowledge and networks, so that you are able to embrace your experience and celebrate your success.

Dean Mullins: Tell us about your involvement with Strategic Design and Innovation Fellows .  Why did you apply for it and what are you learning? 

Melissa: As an internal transfer during my sophomore year, I wanted to create a community for myself within the Smith School. I joined Strategic Design and Innovation Fellows (SDIF) to find creative and like-minded individuals who could help me discover my various marketing interests. During the program, I have learned graphic design skills, current and historical design trends, and the importance of creating a symbiotic relationship between marketers and designers. Professor Mary Harms, the program’s faculty champion, works diligently to leverage her connections in order to bring professional guest lecturers to class. Through these various sessions, I have learned about different facets of design and marketing such as user experience, wayfinding, fashion, and brand strategy. This program has provided me with the knowledge and resources to build my own brand and dive further into the world of marketing. 

Dean Mullins: Tell us how your participation in Strategic Design and Innovation Fellows  is helping and/or has helped you navigate the Smith journey.

Melissa:  SDIF is a pilot for growth and exploration. It has helped me create a comfortable home within the Smith community. Through the program and with my classmates, I have discovered unique areas of this industry I did not before know existed. Professor Harms and my SDIF peers constantly motivate and challenge me to pursue new opportunities and take risks. Networking with professionals through the SUSA New York City trip and VCU Brand Center field trip presented me with real-world exposure to the business world. SDIF has helped me navigate my Smith journey by surrounding me with creative experiences and tools to prepare me for post-graduate life.

Dean Mullins: Reflect on your other involvements and activities here at Smith that have been a part of the Smith journey.

Melissa: At the beginning of my Smith journey, I wanted to take advantage of the diverse resources Smith offers. As a Brother of Alpha Kappa Psi, I strive to develop values of professionalism, community service and social unity within others and myself. Through Smith Peers and Smith Leadership Institute, I assist freshmen students with their transition into college and guide them on a path to success. I highly enjoy mentorship because I can transfer my knowledge and expertise to younger students in order to help them find their niche within the Smith School. Also, I am on the Undergraduate Programming Board, which plans social events for students to network with faculty, alumni and their peers in a casual setting. Also, I work in the Office of Career Services helping on-campus recruiting sessions run smoothly. This job allows me to create positive connections while experiencing a taste of professional life. All of my involvement in the Smith School has propelled me on my Smith journey by allowing me to pursue my passions.

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

Melissa:  My biggest advice is to take advantage of all the vast resources Smith offers. Do not be afraid to attend a meeting or networking night by yourself. The more you put yourself out there, the more confident you will become in new situations. Use the opportunities at the Smith School to embrace your interests and surround yourself with people to help you successfully achieve your goals.

Dean Mullins: What is your dream?

Melissa: My ultimate dream is to make a positive impact on the world around me. I want to work for a company that values social responsibility and the growth of its people. I would love to start a non-profit that helps individuals with special needs become more self-sufficient and gain further acceptance in society. 

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

Melissa: I am passionate about the Smith School because I see how its resources are constantly developing young minds into successful professionals. There is no shortage of leadership and learning opportunities. I admire my peers, professors and faculty because they constantly challenge and motivate me to achieve success. The Smith School’s competitive atmosphere has encouraged me to push myself academically, professionally and personally. I will never forget the friendships and memories I have made throughout my journey at the Smith School.

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Students in one of the Smith School’s many one-year Fellows programs join a cohort of like-minded peers to engage in an intense study of a specific area of business, ranging from major-specific topics such as finance and supply chain to general interests such as sport management or global consulting.

Out-of-the-classroom and reality-based learning experiences are at the forefront of the Fellows programs. Whether through special speakers, workshops, site visits, case competitions, or networking events with corporate partners and Smith alumni, students gain practical insights into the business community. 

Small class sizes in reserved Fellows sections of business courses are a hallmark of all Fellows programs, facilitating strong working relationships among Fellows students and the faculty who advise and teach in the programs. Students engage, explore, and experience the Smith Community through Fellows!

For more information on the 15 unique Fellows Programs available, go to:  Smith Fellows.