For students looking to add or drop a class, explore a new minor or pick up a word of encouragement, here are two faces you should know: Brendan DeCoster and Maiya Smith, the latest additions to MAPP’s advising team. Many students already know Brendan from his days advising undergraduate architecture students; in his new role as assistant director of student services, his door will be open to graduate students, which he’ll juggle with admissions, scheduling and recruitment. Maiya takes the lead on architecture and real estate undergraduate advising, as well as assisting students in the real estate minor.
They both have accomplished resumes: Brendan recently completed a Ph.D. in International Education Policy at UMD and Maiya was a student favorite at University of Maryland Global Campus, where she served as an advisor. But what do they like to do on the weekends? Do they have a secret talent? And can they be bribed easily? We dug into that, and more, in this Q and A below:
If you had to encapsulate your life on the back of a book jacket, your two-sentence bio would read:
Brendan: Brendan didn't exist, but then all of a sudden, he did, through no fault of his own. His hobbies include navel gazing and philosophizing, often doing both at the same time.
Maiya: My name is Maiya Smith. I am an open book, although my story is still being written.
Little-known talent:
Brendan: I can convince small children that I am Elmo over the phone.
Maiya: I am a graphic design artist.
I can easily be bribed with this favorite snack:
Brendan: Are books a snack? I like books...
Maiya: I can be easily bribed with fresh fruits or bubblegum.
What's your favorite way to spend an off day?
Brendan: When I get one, I'll let you know. I like heading down to Peirce Mill in Rock Creek Park to say hi to the ducks and turtles.
Maiya: My favorite way to spend an off day is sleeping in and going out to try new restaurants. I also enjoy spending quality time with my family.
What is something you wish you knew in college?
Brendan: Social capital rules the day. Also, all those romance languages classes aren't gonna help when you get to Korea.
Maiya: In college I wish I really knew the value of networking. I feel like networking and making lifelong connections in college is so important, because you never know how far those relationships can truly go.
Favorite spot at UMD:
Brendan: The path beside the Paint Branch.
Maiya: My favorite spot at UMD, I have to say, is the cafeteria. I have never seen such a diverse college cafe before.
Best part of your job:
Brendan: When it all comes together and works.
Maiya: Best part of my job is that I get to connect with all different types of people in all different walks of life.
Need some time with Brendan or Maiya? Email them at archadvise@umd.edu.