Salem Mengistu

What made you decide to enroll at the University of Maryland?
When I applied to the University of Maryland, I really wanted to be accepted into the Robert H. Smith School of Business. Since I knew it was a good business school, I knew it would equip me with the proper tools to become successful. UMD also accepted me into the Honors Program which is another good resource and opportunity I was able to receive.

What major/career path do you plan on pursuing and how did you select that path?
I plan on majoring in finance with a minor in information technology. By majoring in finance I would be able to secure a stable income and get many job opportunities. Going to the Smith School will help me find many internships, study abroad programs, and other tools to help me shape my future. I also enjoy the international aspect of business, which can help me travel to more countries and explore, which is something that I always wanted to do.

Activities I do outside of class or community service/volunteer activities I'm involved with:
In high school, I was heavily involved with the Key Club. That was the name of my school's, community service and volunteer dub. Now I do volunteer work through my church. While at the University of Maryland, I strive to get more involved in community service and volunteer work in the years to come.

Aside from academics, what else do you hope to take away from your time at Maryland?
I really hope to create and find a community at Maryland that will help me grow, not only as a student but as a person overall. I want to meet many people from different backgrounds to learn more about the world and other world views. I also want my time at Maryland to help me go out of my comfort zone and build new traits that will help me after college.

What are your future goals after graduation?
One big goal I have after graduation is to travel. I want to be in a financially stable job that can help me achieve many other things that I strive to do, whether it be big or small. I also want to be able to help my parents who have helped me so much through my whole education process.