Dev Shanker

He/Him
Class of 2025
Major:  Aerospace Engineering
Minor:  Robotics and Autonomous Systems​​​​​​​
Hometown:  Bowie, MD​​​​​​​
High School:  Archbishop Spalding High School

What inspired you to become a ClarkLEADER?
I wanted to become a ClarkLEADER because I wanted to help give the right guidance and direction to new and upcoming students with their engineering classes and how to approach their freshman year. I think the level of rigor that STEM classes—especially in engineering— possess can pose a great challenge for plenty of students if they don’t go into them without prior knowledge or a background of what to expect. Everyone has the capability to be successful in what they put their minds to, and sometimes, all someone needs is the necessary advice.

What is one piece of advice you would like to share with new Maryland Engineering students? 
Never be afraid to reach out to your fellow classmates, friends, and even professors. Communication is vital in and out of the classroom. Sometimes, reaching out even for that one task or assignment that has been on your mind can make the biggest difference.

What are some organizations or extracurricular activities you are involved with on campus?  
I am a a part of the Foundational Learning and Mentorship Experience (FLAME), Theta Tau Professional Engineering Fraternity, Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE), and Club Running.

What is a cool engineering experience you've had? 
I did a practicum for my scholars program (CPSP339P) where we were required to intern elsewhere and report to our professors monthly about our progress during that semester. I interned at Mach33 as a mechanical engineering intern where I was tasked with designing and building dual gear-driven partition wall models for a few Mercedes-Benz models that they had in the facility. Part-time internships during the semester can be beneficial as they are a great supplement to your current coursework. Highly recommended if given the opportunity.