B.A.: Narrative Design

Degree Mentors: 

• Sharon Tran| Assistant Professor| UMBC English and Affiliate Faculty in the Gender, Women’s, + Sexuality Studies department & Asian Studies
• Andrew Devos| Instructor| UMBC American Studies & Media and Communication Studies
• Steven McAlpine, Individualized Study

Why did you choose to major in INDS?

I heard about INDS at orientation. When I heard that there was only a creative writing minor, I wanted to create my own major that could combine both my love of writing, and my love of art/comic books. This is where I settled, and I've enjoyed every minute of it!

What are your plans for after graduation, and how do you see using your INDS degree?

I plan on going into freelance writing-- making and writing storyboards and coming up with ideas for novels and comic books I want to write.

Any thing you would like to share about your time at UMBC or in the INDS program?

I really enjoyed my time at UMBC and the INDS program, if you told me I would have the connections I have now with UMBC or INDS, I thought you'd be lying. I've met so many people and friends through this college and program, and have really enjoyed it.

For More information on Dani's INDS journey please Click Here!

Visit the INDS Website

B.A.: Management, Advertising, and Entrepreneurship

Major, Minor, Certificate, and/or Honors: 

• Deans List 

Degree Mentors: 

• Dr. Kristen Anchor| Associate Teaching Professor, UMBC Media & Communication Studies
• Kristen Schuler| Marketing Manager, Harkins, Inc.
• Steven McAlpine| Assistant Teaching Professor, UMBC INDS

Why did you choose to major in INDS?

I chose to major in INDS because it gave me the flexibility to pursue a path that truly aligned with my interests and long-term goals. Instead of trying to fit into a traditional major, INDS allowed me to build something that reflected what I actually wanted to study and eventually do as a career. The program helped me map out each component of my major in an intentional way, and it pushed me to think ahead about how my coursework connects to my future goals.

Another big reason I chose INDS was that it allowed me to stay at UMBC while still creating a customized academic experience. I didn’t have to transfer or compromise—I was able to design a pathway that felt practical for me.

What are your plans for after graduation, and how do you see using your INDS degree?

After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school and pursue an MBA with a concentration in Marketing. I see this as an opportunity to deepen my knowledge in a field that I wasn’t able to fully specialize in during my undergraduate experience. My INDS degree has given me a strong interdisciplinary foundation, which I think will be really valuable as I move into a more focused graduate program.

I’m also hoping to gain hands-on experience through an internship in marketing or a related field, while still remaining open to exploring different areas. Long term, I want to continue investing in and supporting small businesses, especially my own family’s business. I see myself using both my INDS background and future MBA to bring strategic thinking, creativity, and practical skills into that work

Were you involved in any clubs or organizations?

• Living Water/Campus Ministry| "Gave me a community and allowed me to stay grounded throughout my last semester at UMBC."

• Tri-Alpha Honors Society| Recognizes first-generation college students and provided a supportive network of peers with similar experiences

Awards, Certifications, Scholarships, etc. that you have received in your time at UMBC: 

• Digital Tech Credential Certification| Pending 2026 

Any thing you would like to share about your time at UMBC or in the INDS program:

Take it slow. There were so many moments where I felt pressure to have everything figured out—especially when it came to career decisions—but I didn’t always know what I truly wanted yet. Giving yourself time to explore, reflect, and adjust your path makes a huge difference. Slowing down those big decisions can actually lead to more clarity and confidence in the long run, and it’s something I wish I had embraced earlier.

For More information on Michelle's INDS journey please Click Here!

Visit the INDS Website