As this term comes to an end, we wanted to share some of our favorite QUESTPress memories and how this community has changed our lives for the better.

Sona Chudamani, QUESTPress Co-Lead

Sona Chudamani (Cohort 37):

When I was first admitted to the University of Maryland, I had no idea what I was walking into. As an incoming computer science major with an older sister at the university, I was essentially told that I should apply to QUEST. I entered as a member of the Science, Technology, and Society Scholars program, where my mentor, Ben Lin of Cohort 34, gave me a crash course on the program. He was such a convincing person that I ended up applying as soon as those applications opened during the winter break of my freshman year. 

My introduction to QUESTPress itself was through my BMGT190H TA, Tanu Kulkarni (Cohort 34), who was Co-Lead at the time. As a new QUESTee, I was easily bought with the promise of a low workload (and brownies!) at the QUEST Student Involvement Fair. I was interested in getting more involved with the program, especially since it was my semester on campus due to COVID. I was an eager sophomore, ready to get my hands dirty with new clubs and experiences.

QUESTPress has been one of the most rewarding parts of my college experience. I have had opportunities to have cool conversations with professors, alumni, and very impressive peers. I would like to give a special shoutout to Ananya Khanna, my wonderful Co-Lead, who really helped me hold this organization together. Thank you also to Brianna Mathieu, our amazing Webmaster – essentially our magician behind the curtains. Last but certainly not least, I would like to thank our staff, Jess Roffe and Emily Marks, for all their assistance – without them both, QUESTPress would not be possible.

Brianna Mathieu, QUESTPress Webmaster

Brianna Mathieu (Cohort 37): 

Joining QUEST was one of the best and most defining moments of my undergraduate experience. As a classically reserved person, I was advised to join by a member of an online peer group I was a part of. Although I was hesitant, joining QUEST taught me so many valuable lessons and has given me immense confidence as I join the professional world. 

I was drawn to QUESTPress immediately at the QUEST Student Involvement Fair as someone who has always enjoyed writing. Tanu Kulkarni, also my BMGT190H TA, easily convinced me that I would love it. Since joining, I have written an article every month and designed our monthly newsletter. Joining QUESTPress has given me pride and confidence in my writing and interviewing abilities. I am honored I had the chance to work with so many talented alumni and write their stories. As I am about to graduate, I am so thankful to everyone who made QUESTPress possible including our Co-Leads, my fellow writers, and both Jess Roffe and Emily Marks. I am beyond grateful that QUESTPress has given me a platform to share my writing voice and allowed me to explore a new side of myself.

We are so grateful for all the amazing things we were able to experience through QUEST and will miss everyone deeply.

Signing off,

Sona and Brianna <3