Name: Maisy Lam
Class: Junior
Hometown: Miami, Florida
Major: Electrical Engineering
Why did you apply to be a student ambassador?
Upon entering the University of Miami (UM), I felt uncertain regarding my undergraduate academic path. At the admitted student’s day event, engineering ambassadors offered me advice and helped me solidify my resolve to study electrical engineering. They made me feel welcomed at the UM College of Engineering (CoE). I applied to serve as an engineering ambassador to pay it forward and help both incoming and undergraduate students as a mentor as well as to inspire them to pursue their interests by acting as a role model and spokesperson for the CoE.
What advice would you offer to new engineering students?
The CoE offers students an immense amount of opportunities to engage beyond the classroom. I would advise new students to capitalize on the breadth of resources available and immerse themselves in activities that interest them. The building is home to many labs and CoE supports a multitude of organizations ranging from the 3D printing Makerclub to departmental honor societies. The ability to be on the frontier of new knowledge, partake in cutting-edge research under the mentorship of a professor, or apply knowledge through involvement in various organizations, is an incredible opportunity offered by the College.
What do you feel is unique about being a student at UM College of Engineering?
The CoE, in the heart of Miami, provides students with the opportunity to engage in a truly diverse environment and interact with students, alumni, community members, and industry professionals throughout their time as an undergraduate. Students are able to forge connections and relations outside of the classroom through continuous engagement and outreach events, bridging the classroom and community. At the UMCoE, one studies and works in an environment where a global perspective is held.
Describe what you are doing in this position.
As an Engineering Student Ambassador, I volunteer at events for the College of Engineering. I have the opportunity to lead tours around the CoE and speak about my experience at prospective and admitted student events. I look forward to continuing to volunteer and engage in opportunities throughout the school year.
What did you learn at CoE that has helped you in your position?
CoE’s curriculum and structured learning emphasizing communication between students, peers, professors, and staff has and helped me practice successfully communicating my ideas and thoughts. Additionally, courses and research opportunities that include presentations provided practice on how to fully and thoughtfully explain and express information effectively.
Which College student organization stands out to you and why?
The mission of Engineering Student Council (ESC) is to serve all students in the College of Engineering. The group stands out in its devotion to providing students with all resources to succeed and have the best possible experience. This organization oversees the planning of social, professional development, and service events for students. They act as the liaison between the administration, organizations, and students of the college.
What do you feel you are getting out of this position?
As a student ambassador, I am able to represent the CoE at various events and prospective student tours throughout the semester. I have the opportunity to promote a remarkable program to alumni, high school students, professionals, and undergraduates.
Why has this been a good experience for you?
Being an engineering student ambassador has allowed me to practice how to fully and formally communicate information and work in professional setting by requiring me to serve as a liaison and spokesperson for the school. I have also been able to meet and learn from other incredible ambassadors through this program.
What did you do during your summer 2019 break?
This summer, I worked for Tufts University as a machine learning engineer. I worked in conjunction with the Biological, Chemical and Electrical Engineering Departments at Tufts to create an image classifier to label microscopic images of fat cells. This will assist biological researchers currently exploring bile acid and organic compound treatments to combat obesity.
