Prisha Ramnath

She/Her
Class of 2026
Major:  Bioengineering
Hometown:  Clarksburg, MD

What motivated you to become a ClarkLEADER?
ClarkLEAD is an initiative by UMD's Clark School of Engineering that promotes diversity and inclusion in all fields of engineering. As a woman passionate about STEM, but often in areas where I don't see representation, I want to contribute to this mission and help freshmen feel included as they venture into college. Engineering is no easy task, but building a community of diverse-minded individuals around you makes all the work worth it!

What are some organizations or extracurricular activities you think new students should know about?
Terps racing, International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM), and ClarkAmbassors are great engineering activities that allow you to meet new people and explore your passions. If you are into research, I recommend exploring the many labs UMD offers. As we are a research institution, there are some awesome projects that students get to partake in and receive mentor support from. The labs in AJC (A. James Clark Hall) are often brand new and looking for student researchers.

If you attended ClarkLEAD as a first-year student, what did you enjoy most about the event?
I loved the activities we did as a table. Reflecting on what was said by a ClarkLEAD speaker or a video we watched and hearing unique experiences allowed me to know more about my peers. Some of the people I met at my ClarkLEAD table are now my best friends and it was a memorable experience.

What is one piece of advice you would like to share with new Maryland Engineering students?
Be as open as you can with other students and build a support group you can carry with you throughout your undergrad. Making friends is a lot easier in college as you are more often around like-minded people who share your interests and passions.