Meet the Smith Ambassadors
Smith Ambassadors are the face of the Smith Undergraduate Program for prospective and admitted business students. Smith Ambassadors is a diverse group of outstanding students with a wide array of involvements both within the Smith School and beyond. We work to inform and recruit the best and the brightest students through interactive presentations, guided tours, and impactful personal communication.
Damilola Abiodun
Class of 2029
Major(s): Accounting and Information Systems
Hometown: Upper Marlboro, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is the Smith Freshman Convocation and Welcome Dinner for all freshmen that happens right before the first day of classes!”
Manasa Alur
Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Economics (BSOS)
Hometown: Ellicott City, Maryland
“Join the clubs you are interested in and talk to as many professors as you can to get information on plans for college and post-grad, it’s a great way to get some insider information on the fields and careers you could end up in.”
Folabomi Awosika
Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Supply Chain Management
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
“My Freshman Orientation in Fall 2022 felt like the start of a new chapter of my life.”
Britney Ayala
Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Frederick, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is working with the Smith Community Council and Diversity Equity Council. It's been a great experience meeting new faculty and working with like-minded peers who are passionate about making Smith the best version of itself.”
Devin Bender
Class of 2028
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Woodstock, Maryland
“My advice for prospective freshmen and transfer students is to check the weekly newsletters that Smith puts out. It keeps students informed about upcoming events, internship offerings, tutoring resources, deadlines and job opportunities.”
Marissa Behal
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Management
Hometown: Holmdel, New Jersey
“My biggest piece of advice would be to get involved early and go to every event! You never know what events are going to be beneficial and what connections you will make. Going in with an open mind is the best way to be successful.”
Reiss Brannigan
Class of 2028
Major(s): Accounting and Marketing
Hometown: Freeland, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory has been my internship at the Office of Career Services in Smith, where I worked with other amazing interns and experienced staff!”
Eileen Chen
Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland
“My favorite thing about Smith is THE COMMUNITY. You'll hear everyone say this, but it's so true. Everyone here is so welcoming, and it's like having a huge friend huddle every time you walk through the Smith hallways because you can't walk to class without bumping into someone you know.”
Joseph Chung
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Accounting
Hometown: Towson, Maryland
“Really explore your interests within the business school, find what you like, and then stick with it!”
Ula Cieslak
Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance & Accounting
Hometown: Kensington, Maryland
“One thing I love about Smith is that there is always someone to turn to, whether it is about academics, extracurriculars or anything else. Everyone is super friendly, from fellow students to faculty, and it makes it easy to build a community on campus.”
Brooke Cowan
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Upper Marlboro, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is when I took a trip to NYC with Smith in the City. It was definitely an amazing experience seeing UMD alumni successful and learning how their education and experience translated into their careers.”
Carlos Del Rio
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Accounting
Hometown: Clarksburg, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is definitely getting flown out as one of three Smith students selected to represent the Smith School of Business at the 2025 Consortium for Undergraduate International Business Education (CUIBE) Global Summer Leadership Summit in Medellín, Colombia.”
Dylan Persaud
Class of 2029
Major(s): Marketing
Hometown: Towson, Maryland
“Don’t spend all your time in your residence hall. Try to get out there and do as many things as you can, and find what you love.”
Anne Egbe
Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Bel Air, Maryland
“Being a part of Smith has helped me grow academically and personally, teaching me valuable skills for both my professional and personal life.”
Nina-Netanya Enwesi
Class of 2027
Major(s): Operations Management & Business Analytics and Information Science (I-School)
Hometown: Upper Marlboro, Maryland
“Make connections, don’t be afraid to meet new people, and get your name out there. Have an open mind coming into this school, you’ll be exposed to many things that you have no prior knowledge about, so be open to taking these things in.”
Annyee Foo
Class of 2027
Major(s): Management and Information Systems
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland
“College is a time to explore! Hop into anything you're interested in; it never hurts to just try.”
Josue Garcia Ruano
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Laurel, Maryland
“My advice to incoming freshmen or prospective transfer students is to stay curious and not be afraid to get involved! There are so many wonderful opportunities at Smith and an abundance of peers and professors that want to see you succeed!”
Luz Gaytan
Class of 2027
Major(s): Accounting and Management
Hometown: New Carrollton, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is the summer I started working at the undergrad suite! I made great friends and learned some Smith ‘lore,’ aka fun facts!”
Maraly Gonzalez
Class of 2027
Major(s): Marketing and International Business
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memories have been traveling with the Smith Business Leadership Fellows Program — first to Portugal and Morocco last year and to New York City this past fall!”
Emily Greenwald
Class of 2027
Major(s): Information Systems and Marketing
Hometown: Ellicott City, Maryland
“I love being a Smith Ambassador because I’m so passionate about Smith and everything it has to offer. I love sharing my experiences, answering questions, and helping others see how special Smith can be for them—just like it has been for me.”
Ezekiel Gunawan
Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland
“Take advantage of all the organizations that Smith has. Whether you are in Smith or not, there are a plethora of organizations that you can join that can teach you valuable insights on business, internship/job recruiting, career tracks, and fields. As a Freshman Connection transfer, I joined a professional business fraternity and pan-asian business club, where I was able to meet upperclassmen who mentored me before and after I got into Smith.”
Luzmary Hernandez
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Silver Spring, Maryland
“My favorite memory was going to the student involvement fair as a sophomore and discovering CFMA, a club dedicated to promoting personal financial literacy. It aligned perfectly with my professional and personal values in one! Since then it has given me the opportunity to give back to surrounding communities.”
Julion Harris
Class of 2026
Major(s): Management and Marketing
Hometown: Brandywine, Maryland
“Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Put yourself out there, be a go-getter, and never compare yourself to anyone else.”
Therman Hawkins III
Class of 2026
Major(s): Marketing
Hometown: Bowie, Maryland
“I love being a Smith Ambassador because I get to give back to the community that has served me so much. I am able to inspire the next generation of leaders and change-makers to enroll in an institution that will develop them into the best people imaginable.”
Jimmy Herman
Class of 2026
Major(s): Information Systems
Hometown: Marriottsville, Maryland
“I have found an amazing community of people within Smith that I have been able to connect with professionally and socially.”
Mya Johnson
Class of 2028
Major(s): Finance and Management
Hometown: Bear, Delaware
“My advice for prospective students is to understand that everyone’s timing in building friendships and becoming involved is different! Go at the pace that makes you comfortable!”
Rory Jenkins
Class of 2028
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Severna Park, Maryland
“The Smith school provides so many opportunities to be involved and find friends.”
Maya Kayastha
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Supply Chain Management
Hometown: Cockeysville, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is being a part of the Future Women in Business Conference and having the opportunity to talk to incoming high school girls.”
Max Keeling
Class of 2028
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Frederick, Maryland
“One of my favorite Smith memories is becoming a Smith Start Mentor and helping first-year students navigate the same questions I once had.”
Katiti Kajubi
Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Management
Hometown: Silver Spring, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is my first Career Fair. Breaking out my blazer for the first time at the Career Fair with my friends was unforgettable! It was a bit nerve-wracking, but the experience was so fulfilling. I loved feeling all dressed up and business-like while connecting with so many people.”
Daniel Kang
Class of 2028
Major(s): Accounting
Hometown: La Plata, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is when my friends and I stayed up all night in Van Munching Hall preparing for a case competition.”
Caleb Kang
Class of 2028
Major(s): Information Systems and Finance
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
“I want to help prospective students and their families see just how special this community is. Smith has already had such a positive impact on my life, and I’m thrilled at the chance to represent this amazing school and inspire others to join our community.”
Katherine Alfaro
Class of 2026
Major(s): Marketing
Hometown: Germantown, Maryland
“My favorite memory has definitely been the annual Smith in the City trip! I made new friends within Smith, visited top companies like Disney, COTY, ALG and Hilton, and left feeling inspired to keep building my career in business and make the most of my network.”
Le-Nair Koffa
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Bowie, Maryland
“Be proactive! Opportunities only come when you put yourself out there and build connections within Smith. It pays dividends and opens doors to opportunities that set you up for long-term success.”
Aleeza Khan
Class of 2025
Major(s): Information Systems and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Clarksville, Maryland
“I like getting to share my experience of finding my passion and my people, so I can help others do the same.”
Hannah Li
Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Boyds, Maryland
“Have fun and talk to people in your classes because these are the people you will see every other day. Additionally, take advantage of the resources and opportunities that Smith offers; there are so many.”
Veronica Lijeron
Class of 2026
Major(s): Operations Management & Business Analytics and Information Systems
Hometown: Metuchen, New Jersey
“I love Smith because of the communities that it fosters. While UMD is a large school, the Smith organizations, faculty, and students make our community close-knit. There is hardly ever a time when I can walk down the halls without saying hi to someone I know, and it feels like we are in a "family," supporting each other.”
Evelyn McGoldrick
Class of 2029
Major(s): Marketing
Hometown: Millington, New Jersey
“My favorite Smith memory was on my first day of school when I got lost looking for my business class. One of the staff members noticed me wandering and immediately began walking with me to find my room. Not only did I realize there was a Starbucks in the building, but I recognized the strong sense of community within Smith. It showed me that there is truly always someone looking out for you and genuinely invested in your success.”
Carter Majmudar
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Fairfield, Connecticut
“I am looking forward to showing prospective students that, apart from the overall university, the Smith School has a wealth of resources and services available that can further improve people's academic experience.”
Srujan Mandavilli
Class of 2028
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Woodstock, Maryland
“Smith has lots of opportunities for students to learn and grow.”
Stephen Mickus
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Mount Olive, New Jersey
“You do not need to have your career path set already. Follow your interests and craft your own story.”
Jaselle Minge
Class of 2027
Major(s): Management and Marketing
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland
“Try your best to put yourself out there, especially in your classes. Sit next to someone new and try to start a conversation. You never know how impactful that relationship will be!”
Joanie Morningstar
Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and International Business
Hometown: Ellicott City, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory was being an SBLF mentor. It was so exciting to see how much my group of freshman grew from their first day on campus to their final presentations after their first semester. Our students are truly amazing, and our professors create an environment that encourages learning and growth.”
Michael Nino-Aguilar
Class of 2026
Major(s): Accounting
Hometown: Silver Spring, Maryland
“I am excited to showcase all aspects of Smith to incoming members of the community. Smith has shaped me to be the professional that I am today.”
Elijah Olaniyan
Class of 2028
Major(s): Information Systems
Hometown: Bowie, Maryland
“My favorite memory since attending Smith was participating in Smith Freshman Convocation. It was the first time I met my Smith Start mentor and the rest of my group, and it immediately made me feel connected to the community. It was also a great opportunity to network, build relationships, and start my Smith experience with people who supported and motivated me from day one.”
Andres Parra
Class of 2029
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Gaithersburg, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is my first semester in the Smith Business Leadership Fellows (SBLF) program, especially going to NYC with students from all SBLF cohorts!”
Reena Patel
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Rising Sun, Maryland
“The Smith community is incredibly inviting, and I feel supported every step of the way. There are so many events and opportunities within Smith that allow you to explore different career paths and learn exactly what you want to pursue in the future.”
Ashley Patterson
Class of 2028
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Parkton, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is the Smith in the City trip! Never could I have imagined that during my first semester, freshman year, I would be walking into the NYC offices of firms like Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. The trip brought me out of my comfort zone by challenging my networking skills while learning about the various careers in the finance field. I left the trip feeling ambitious and excited about my future professional career.”
Hunter Pearlstein
Class of 2027
Major(s): Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Old Bethpage, New York
“Sharing perspective with others is what I enjoy. If I can influence someone's decision to make their college experience better, I would be so honored to be a part of it.”
Santana Pina
Class of 2029
Major(s): International Business
Hometown: Bluffton, South Carolina
“My favorite Smith memory was getting the call that I had been offered a spot as an analyst in Cohort 11 of Snider Consulting Group (SCG). I had studied constantly throughout the past week to learn the basics of consulting cases, all culminating in my final interviews. My involvement in SCG has already been life-changing due to the people, support and extensive learning opportunities.”
Margot Ramsey
Class of 2027
Major(s): Management and Supply Chain Management
Hometown: Annapolis, Maryland
“Smith gives you the tools and resources to succeed, and you should really take advantage of those opportunities.”
Torrie Recupero
Class of 2029
Major(s): Accounting and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Olney, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is taking a polaroid with Testudo and winning a Smith tote bag on the first day-of-school event!”
Ben Resnick
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Accounting
Hometown: Needham, Massachusetts
“I love being an ambassador because I get the opportunity to help prospective and admitted students who are in my old shoes. I had so many questions as a prospective student, and did not know much coming into Smith, and I love being that helping hand.”
Becky Rodriguez
Class of 2028
Major(s): Marketing
Hometown: Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey
“I’m excited to be a Smith Ambassador because it gives me the opportunity to share what makes the Smith community so special. Helping others discover a place where they can grow and truly feel a sense of belonging is incredibly rewarding.”
Aspen Rosner
Class of 2027
Major(s): International Business and Marketing
Hometown: West Hartford, Connecticut
“My favorite Smith memory is the convocation BBQ my freshman year!!”
Victoria Rush
Class of 2026
Major(s): Marketing and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Bowie, Maryland
“Make sure you build good habits and leave room for yourself. You’ll hear a lot of great advice about getting involved, using campus resources, and taking advantage of everything college offers, and you should. But while you’re throwing yourself into new opportunities and as you pour into others, don’t forget to pour into yourself. You can’t give your best when you’re running on empty.”
Joselyn Salazar
Class of 2028
Major(s): Marketing
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland
“Be open to trying new things, you never know what might be a missed opportunity.”
Adi Shah
Class of 2027
Major(s): Supply Chain Management
Hometown: Bethesda, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory was helping operate the Fall ’25 Career Fair. It was an amazing experience getting to see the inner workings of such a bustling event!”
Dhruv Shah
Class of 2029
Major(s): Finance and Accounting
Hometown: Ellicott City, Maryland
“I absolutely love the Terp Marketplace Smith hosts every semester!”
Anjali Sharma
Class of 2026
Major(s): Information Systems, Marketing, and Economics (BSOS)
Hometown: Gaithersburg, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is rubbing Testudo’s nose for the first time!”
Marvi Shroff
Class of 2026
Major(s): Finance and Information Systems
Hometown: Clarksburg, Maryland
“Being an ambassador for the Smith School is one of my favorite roles because it allows me to share the incredible sense of community Smith has provided me. From supportive friends to incredible professors, Smith has been a place where I’ve grown both personally and professionally. I love being able to connect with prospective students, share my experiences, and show them what makes Smith such a special place.”
Riley Smith
Class of 2028
Major(s): Finance and Marketing
Hometown: Annapolis, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory was getting to be a Smith Start Mentor in Fall 2025 and getting to know all my freshmen mentees!”
Jordan Sternschein
Class of 2028
Major(s): Information Systems
Hometown: Rye Brook, New York
“It truly has been inspiring to be a part of the supportive and empowering Smith community. From the dedicated students to the prestigious faculty and alumni, Smith has it all. I am passionate about sharing my experiences with prospective students so they can see that Smith could be their perfect fit, just as it is mine.”
Kerry Techwei
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Lanham, Maryland
“Get involved with the organizations here at Smith. Build relationships and friendships with people who are going to challenge you and push you to do better and be better.”
Elijah Thompson
Class of 2025
Major(s): Management and Information Systems
Hometown: Clarksburg, Maryland
“Don't be afraid to say hello to someone near you (and back if you're receiving it). Smith is a special community for you at UMD, so take advantage of it and make new friends! You might learn something about yourself along the way as well.”
Kathy Tran
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Accounting
Hometown: Silver Spring, Maryland
“My advice for prospective freshmen or transfer students would be to be open to forming relationships. College can oftentimes feel very overwhelming, but the people you meet really shape your experience here at Smith. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself, ask questions, or get involved!! Building connections early on can make this large campus feel like home so much faster, and it is something I wished someone told me to do early on.”
Luca Uttenreither
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Columbia, Maryland
“My favorite Smith memory is meeting up with friends at Rudy’s Café between classes, whether we were catching up on assignments or getting something to eat. It is a place that has helped me slow down and stay connected during busy days.”
Lisset Vargas
Class of 2027
Major(s): Information Systems and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Riverdale, Maryland
“This new chapter of your life that you’re walking into comes with so many opportunities. Take hold of them and make the most out of your time at the Smith School. There is something for absolutely everyone, you just have to be willing to try!”
Riah Wiseman
Class of 2028
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Prince Frederick, Maryland
“As an internal transfer student, my biggest piece of advice would be to stay focused and motivated from day one. Transferring in to such a competitive major is so rewarding, but you need to put in the effort to make yourself stand out. Be involved in any club that interest you, network with your peers, and study hard!”
Donovan Wayman
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland
“Smith has so many things to offer, but it is up to you whether you take advantage of it. You have the potential to exponentially change and grow if you remain intellectually curious about everything you do, so just stay curious.”
Catie Wilson
Class of 2027
Major(s): Marketing and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Easton, Massachusetts
“My favorite Smith memory is when I got to meet other Smith students at the Freshman Convocation during my first week at UMD.”
Sanaz Wyckoff
Class of 2027
Major(s): Finance and Operations Management & Business Analytics
Hometown: Potomac, Maryland
“Keep an open mind and try to be as involved as possible while maintaining a balance. The first semester can be a big adjustment, making friends and finding your place. With time and patience, everything works out.”
Christopher Yeh
Class of 2026
Major(s): Information Systems and Supply Chain Management
Hometown: Rockville, Maryland
“College is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, make sure to make the most of it by being curious and trying everything to find what makes you happy! Never be afraid to ask for help!”
