Vincent Yu

As a dedicated student at Smith, I've immersed myself in campus leadership, demonstrating unwavering commitment to supporting my peers in their academic and professional endeavors. Throughout my journey, I've engaged with various facets of the Smith community, from active participation in the Smith Undergraduate Student Association to contributing to the Snider Consulting Group. These experiences have not only equipped me with essential skills but also fueled my passion for making a meaningful impact, rendering me an ideal candidate for the ODK Scholarship.

My journey began during my freshman year when I navigated the complexities of transferring into the business school. Despite not yet being in the business school, I found a way to contribute to the Smith Undergraduate Student Association (SUSA), serving as a DEI committee member and a Strategy and Operations Analyst over three semesters. This experience not only provided insights into the inner workings of the business school but also exposed me to invaluable opportunities.

Upon successfully transferring to Smith, I encountered a plethora of resources and opportunities that initially seemed overwhelming. However, with guidance from peers and resources like Smith's Office of Career Services (OCS), I quickly learned to navigate them effectively. This support network played a pivotal role in securing an internship at a Big Four company during my first semester in the business school. Inspired by the impact of community support on individual success, I resolved to become a guiding force for incoming students and assumed the role of a Career Advising Intern at OCS, providing personalized guidance and support to fellow students.

Continuing on this mission, I have played integral roles within Phi Chi Theta Professional Fraternity, offering personalized career development guidance as a pledge mentor and orchestrating professional events as the professional chair. Additionally, I provide scheduled and on-demand 1-on-1 professional coaching, tailoring guidance to each brother's specific needs and career goals, thus giving back to the fraternity that has contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth.

In conclusion, my multifaceted involvement and leadership within the Smith and UMD community, coupled with my dedication to supporting my peers, make up a big part of my Maryland Experience. I am eager to continue serving as a resource and mentor for my positively to the community.