Your Student Experience

Getting Out in the Area

The area around the University of Maryland offers lots to do. The Masters Program Office organizes many group outings with members of the Smith community.

Meet Our Student Ambassadors

Master of Science in Accounting

Sarah Stuart-Sikowitz

I'm Sarah Stuart-Sikowitz, a Master of Accounting student at the University of Maryland with a non-traditional path into the field. My career began in outdoor education, leading backpacking and science expeditions in California and Oregon, where I taught leadership, communication, and outdoor skills. Prior to UMD, I served as Finance Director for a Portland-based outdoor education nonprofit, combining my passion for mission-driven work with financial management.

Now, as a Student Ambassador for the MSA program, I bring a unique perspective shaped by years of leading teams—both in the wilderness and in the office. Transitioning into accounting has required me to adapt core strengths like risk management, confidence, and adaptability to a field grounded in analysis and strategic planning. I'm excited to support and mentor fellow students, especially those from non-traditional backgrounds, as they navigate their own paths at UMD.

Master of Science in Business Analytics & AI

Anaushka Taneja

I’m Anaushka Taneja, a Master of Science in Business Analytics & AI student at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business. My journey into analytics has been shaped by a blend of product management, strategy, and data-driven decision-making across fast-paced startup environments.

Prior to joining UMD, I worked across product and strategy roles in India, including as a Product Lead at Improveda, where I led end-to-end product development and helped drive $100K in revenue within the first year of launch. My experience spans building data-driven systems, developing analytics dashboards, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to translate business needs into scalable technical solutions.

Now, as a Student Ambassador for the MSBA program, I bring a perspective rooted in both business strategy and technical analytics. My transition into business analytics has strengthened my ability to connect data with real-world impact whether through improving product performance, optimizing user experiences, or supporting strategic decision-making.

I’m passionate about helping prospective and current students navigate the MSBA journey, especially those coming from interdisciplinary or non-traditional backgrounds. At Smith, I’ve found a community that encourages curiosity, collaboration, and innovation and I’m excited to contribute to that experience while supporting others in finding their path. Go Terps! 🐢

Master of Science in Information Systems & AI

Kavya Mehta

I’m Kavya Mehta, a Master of Science in Information Systems & AI (MSIS & AI) student at the University of Maryland, College Park, with a strong passion for using data and technology to solve real-world business problems. My journey combines hands-on experience in software development and data analytics with a growing interest in digital transformation and AI-driven decision-making.

Before joining UMD, I worked on projects ranging from building full-stack applications to analyzing large datasets and uncovering actionable insights. As a Student Ambassador at the Robert H. Smith School of Business, I love connecting with prospective students and helping them navigate their journey. I’d be more than happy to welcome you, chat about the program, and answer any questions you may have about MSIS or life at UMD.

Outside of academics, a fun fact about me is that I’ve traveled to over 20 countries, which has shaped my perspective and love for meeting people from different backgrounds.

Elijah Thompson

My name is Elijah Thompson, a first-generation student, and I am continuing my education as a Graduate student, pursuing a Master of Science in Information Systems at the Robert H. Smith School of Business. During my undergraduate career, I completed my Bachelor of Science in Information Systems at the Robert H. Smith School of Business, and was in 30+ on-campus involvements/campus jobs.

As a curious person, I always ask myself why. This drew me to technology, as it is fascinating how technology works and how it seems to have such a solid grasp on society. It influences our daily lives almost unnoticeably, and I imagine the what-ifs of technology. I seek to find a way to incorporate technology and people into a well-functioning and efficient dynamic, with technology enhancing, not replacing people's place in society.

I chose Smith to continue my degree because of the opportunities offered here, from hands-on projects working with real clients to the Smith Community events—there are always different ways to be engaged!

Master of Science in Management Studies

Mugdha Dange

I’m Mugdha Dange, a student in the Master's in Management Studies program at the Smith School of Business. With a background in Pharmaceutical Sciences and 1.5 years of industry experience, I chose Smith for its strong focus on experiential learning, collaborative community, and career support.

I’m particularly interested in marketing, analytics and product management, especially how data-driven insights can shape decision-making and drive meaningful impact. Outside academics, I stay involved through clubs and organizations at Smith.

As someone who understands the importance of finding the right fit, I enjoy connecting with prospective students, sharing my experiences, and helping them navigate their journey to Smith with confidence.

Master of Science in Supply Chain Management

Sidhiksha Manikonda

Sidhiksha Manikonda is a graduate student in the MS Supply Chain Management program and serves as a Student Ambassador for the program. She currently holds the position of Vice President of Operations for the Smith Masters Supply Chain Management Association and is actively involved with APICS.

With a background in law, she brings a unique perspective to the field of supply chain management, focusing on contract management and procurement. She is particularly interested in leveraging her skills to enhance efficiency, compliance, and strategic decision-making within supply chain operations.

Master of Quantitative Finance

Aditya Agarwal

I am a second-semester student in the Master of Quantitative Finance program and a double Terp, having graduated with dual B.S. degrees in Finance and Economics in May 2025.

After graduation, I hope to work in the fixed income industry, particularly in mortgage-backed securities (MBS). In my free time, I enjoy watching Formula 1 and have recently picked up cooking as a new hobby.

Master of Science in Marketing Analytics

Bahar Asgharinia

Hello! My name is Bahar Asgharinia and I am pursuing a Master of Science in Marketing Analytics at the University of Maryland, Robert H. Smith School of Business. I also serve as the President of the Smith Masters Marketing Analytics Association.

Prior to joining Smith, I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Economics and a minor in Business Administration. My interests lie at the intersection of economics and marketing analytics and their impact on strategic decision-making across every industry.

I am passionate about the value of this program and strive to bring together the skills I have developed across disciplines. Smith offers a wide range of opportunities, from academic experiences to discovering new areas of interest through its diverse curriculum.

For those interested in combining disciplines and leveraging their unique experiences, I would be happy to connect and share more.