Hailey Chawla

Class of 2026
Major: Computer Engineering
Minor: Global Engineering Leadership
Hometown: Silver Spring, Maryland

What motivated you to become a ClarkLEADER?
I remember being a student at ClarkLEAD as an incoming freshman and I felt very welcomed in by my ClarkLEADER and my fellow engineering peers surrounding me. Seeing a lot of like-minded people all around the room really solidified that I chose the right school and major. That feeling of community and belonging is such an important and special feeling that should be felt by everyone. I have been a ClarkLEADER for the past two years and each time, I felt I did my due diligence in giving back to the UMD Engineering community. This has motivated me to want to be a ClarkLEADER for the third year in a row because I want to continue instilling that feeling amongst new engineering students. I want them to feel like they belong, they are welcome, and I want to be part of what helps in make their transition into the A. James Clark School of Engineering a smooth and easy one.

What is one piece of advice you would like to share with new Maryland Engineering Students?
One piece of advice I would like to share with new Maryland Engineering students is always try something new! Explore campus, explore off campus, attend sporting events, join clubs! You never know if you will enjoy something unless you try it! Nothing is binding! You can join a club one semester and decide you cannot do it another semester and that is okay! You are always welcome back the following semester! Find your niche outside of classes! Keep a schedule to manage your time wisely! You are here to learn, have fun, and come into your own! Make the most of it!

What are some organizations or extracurricular activities you think new students should know about?
Women in Engineering, Society of Women Engineers, Terps Racing, Engineers Without Boarders, Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, Women in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Undergraduate Teaching Fellows Program, the various engineering societies for each major.

If you attended ClarkLEAD as a first-year student, what did you enjoy most about the event?
What I enjoyed most about the event was the numerous opportunities to hold conversations with my peers at my table. We got to share many interesting stories and perspectives and it was a great way to start that networking and connection process.