Princess Atud

What made you decide to enroll at the University of Maryland?
My first attraction to the University of Maryland was the infinite amount of educational opportunities provided for students. As someone who loves to explore other activities or studies to understand my interests better, the diverse curriculum, sports, clubs, and even College Park Scholars program drew me towards UMD. With the tools provided to enhance students' learning and careers, diversity promotion, and the in-state tuition, I decided to enroll at the University of Maryland College Park.

What major/career path do you plan on pursuing and how did you select that path?
As a high school student, I first applied to UMD as a biological science major but now will be switching to computer science. Growing up I have always looked into careers that would give back to the community. Previously, I had planned on attending medical school after obtaining my bachelor's degree though I wasn't sure which doctoral degree I would be aiming for. But as someone that loves creativity, critical thinking, and coming up with solutions and once created a small app to help with chemistry in high school, I decided to switch my major to computer science with the aim of attending graduate school to seek a master's in software engineering. This is so that I can help with developing computer systems to help with real-world problems both environmentally and health-wise.

Activities I do outside of class or community service/volunteer activities I'm involved with:
Outside of school I am involved in club activities such as Sports Analytics club, DIY club, Journalism/Newspaper club, and volleyball. Additionally, during summer breaks, I take part in the SYEP program in which I learn more about life skills and what it means to be part of a community for a month. Similarly, I also participate in volunteering activities. Some of which include gift wrapping at a mall to raise money and aid those in need during holiday breaks. I also often stayed after school to clean and pick up trash to keep a clean environment.

Aside from academics, what else do you hope to take away from your time at Maryland?
Aside from academics, I hope to become a better version of myself during the time I will be spending at the University of Maryland. Similarly, I hope to learn more about our society and community, not just from the diverse curriculum available, but also from the staff and students. I hope my experience at UMD broadens my overall thoughts on how I perceive my surroundings and disciplines me.

What are your future goals after graduation?
I plan on attending graduate school to obtain a master's in software engineering.