Namvinh Phan

Class of 2028
Major: Materials Science & Engineering
Hometown: Montgomery County, Maryland

What motivated you to become a ClarkLEADER?
My freshman ClarkLEAD session gave me early insight into the engineering experience at UMD and helped shape the way I approached my time in the Clark School. Since then, I've built meaningful relationships, led engineering projects, and grown as both a student and a mentor. As a ClarkLEADER, I hope to help incoming students tap into that same potential and feel empowered to own their journey from the start.

What is one piece of advice you would like to share with new Maryland Engineering Students?
Go to office hours! It is one of the best ways to connect with and learn from people who want to help you succeed.

If you attended ClarkLEAD as a first-year student, what did you enjoy most about the event?
What I enjoyed most about ClarkLEAD was the chance to connect with other new students and learn directly from upperclassmen who had already navigated the path ahead. Hearing their experiences and advice gave me a clearer picture of what to expect and made the transition into college feel a little less overwhelming.