Lakeland STARS is a college mentor/tutoring program that connects UMD College Park Scholars students with local 1st-6th graders. Matched one-on-one, we aim to enrich the students' academic experience by giving them a college-aged role model to look up to. I have been a tutor for Lakeland STARs since the fall of my freshman year.
This program has been such a positive experience during my time at the University of Maryland. Being able to connect with younger kids and inspire them to push for their dreams and believe in themselves is one of the most rewarding experiences. I love seeing them grow and learn semester by semester. It has taught me how to be more encouraging, how to be a directive leader when necessary, and how to create material that is enriching and exciting for younger students. I always look forward to seeing my tutee on Thursdays, and it is always sweet to see how excited the children get to see us, too.
After joining the Global Fellows program in the fall of my sophomore year, I have become entrenched in an amazing experience. From incredible professors who actively work in the U.S. government, to expert guest speakers who give us insight into real world organizations and problems, this program is beyond amazing and I cannot speak more highly of it.
I am a part of the U.S. Diplomacy and Policymaking course, which took me on a journey of learning which culminated in a mock National Security Council meeting. Throughout this journey, I learned to write professionally while learning different "levers" that can be pulled in diplomacy and policymaking. It gave me a new insight into international relations which I am excited to apply in my future endeavors.
As a member of the Stamp Advisory Board, I represent the undergraduate students' interests at the Stamp Student Union. It is such a rewarding experience to work with people from all different backgrounds and walks of life. With members ranging from adult faculty to graduate student representatives, I am surrounded by incredible knowledge and experience. My colleagues and I always create a great dialogue as we discuss how to implement different programs at the Stamp, or as we resolve issues that come up along the way. I feel incredibly lucky to get to represent my fellow classmates at the Stamp Advisory Board. Stamp is one of those places that can really make University of Maryland students feel a part of a community at such a large institution. I always seek to find new ways to enrich and enhance student and faculty alike's experience at the Stamp Student Union.