Melany Claros

I heard about the Universities at Shady Grove (USG) back in early 2020 when the Spring Open House was being advertised on social media. At that time, I was beginning my second semester at Montgomery College as a business major. I chose the University of Maryland, College Park’s (UMD) Robert H. Smith School of Business because of its excellent academics and strong commitment to diversity, which resonated with my personal values. However, I opted to study at the USG campus for its proximity and the chance to be part of a smaller Smith community. This decision allowed me to have more direct interactions with professors, advisors, and fellow students. After conducting research on the marketing program at UMD, I knew Smith at USG was calling my name. I'd say my journey towards a career in business all began when I was a young girl, and I had the privilege of witnessing my mother's remarkable journey as an emigrated Latina woman in the United States. My mother, like many immigrants, faced numerous challenges in her new country, including language barriers and financial limitations. But what truly left an indelible mark on me was her determination and the way she started her own daycare business from the ground up. 

At USG, I embraced every opportunity to grow and connect. I served as Vice President of Marketing for the American Marketing Association, contributed as a student blogger for USG’s Around the Grove, and worked as a student ambassador, where I shared my experiences with prospective students. These roles allowed me to hone my leadership and communication skills while giving back to the USG community. Despite primarily studying at USG, I also stayed involved at the College Park campus, including joining the Smith Undergraduate Student Association (SUSA) as part of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee.

In the summer of 2023, I interned at PenFed Credit Union as a Digital Media Intern. During my time there, I helped with social media content creation and management, created analytical reports, and conducted in-depth research for the CEO's speaking engagements. 

In May 2024, I proudly graduated with my bachelor’s degree and immediately continued my studies in the Smith School’s Plus 1 Program, pursuing a Master’s in Marketing Analytics. With graduation just a few months away in May 2025, I’m eager to step into the next chapter of my journey. My goal is to join a forward-thinking company that values diversity, creativity, and innovation. I want to use my skills to drive impactful marketing strategies that resonate with people and make a difference.

Looking back, I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had at USG and the community that supported me along the way. As a first-generation college student, the path hasn’t always been easy, but the experience has been nothing short of transformative. USG has given me the tools to embrace opportunity and chase my dreams with confidence.