Member Testimonials

"I have been in the Business Academy since my freshman year. Being in the Business Academy propelled the pursuit of my professional career much earlier than I anticipated and am forever grateful for that. By showing me how to be involved in Smith, how to network, and how I can build on myself as an individual have all been lessons I will never forget. Being in the Academy surrounds me with like-minded men who want to help each other achieve the highest level of success. I am grateful to be able to serve on the Business Academy Executive Board for the following year, and I am excited to instill those lessons and values on to the incoming members. "

"The Business Academy is a unique organization in which I had experiences that I could not get anywhere else on campus. It presented me with a group of like-minded individuals from similar backgrounds all pushing each other to succeed. As someone who is involved in a few organizations on campus, the Business Academy is easily the most beneficial as I have picked up numerous professional tips and have started to plan my career. The mentorship provided me with a great overall experience. I was motivated by seeing people just like me except a year or two older doing amazing things. I appreciated being able to reach out to and learn from them."

"The Smith Business Academy has undoubtedly become an incredible enhancement to my first year journey at the University of Maryland. Dean Mullins alongside the other Men of Distinction in the academy are a resource like no other. Through seminars, presentations, and acts of community service I have further developed the academic, social, and professional skills we are taught at Smith. I look forward to my continued participation in the academy and the impact and knowledge I will impose on incoming members. The Smith Business Academy has been one of the biggest assets in my extra-curricular involvement and the best way to meet other motivated men of color within the Smith School of Business. "

"My experience at the Smith Business Academy was fantastic. Having strong men of color to look up to makes me feel empowered, and knowing that they've done such great things gives me the confidence to do great things myself. I have gained skills such as networking, professional dress attire, and professional speaking. The speakers that came in were always informative and kind, willing to answer any questions. I am excited to be an Executive Board member next year and see where this program takes me!"