Over winter break, the QUEST program introduced our new program coordinator, Emily Marks. I had the privilege to sit down with her to discuss her career, experience with QUEST, and her future goals. Marks is a UMD alumna from New Jersey who graduated in 2019 with a degree in Government and Politics with a minor in International Relations. She was a recipient of the Boren scholarship, where she was given the opportunity to study abroad in Senegal and study French. She later became the Resident Director of the Senegal study abroad program before coming to QUEST. 

What inspired you to join the QUEST team?

Marks was inspired to join the QUEST team because she liked how student-focused and dynamic the coordinator role is. She could also tell from meeting the Quality Guild that their priority was the student experience which aligns with her views. 

How has your experience with QUEST been so far? What’s been your favorite?

Her experience with QUEST has been amazing so far, she loves how welcoming the students and staff have been. She expressed that she loves when students stop by her office to introduce themselves to her. She has had to learn a lot quickly but was happy to hit the ground running. It was hard for Marks to pick a favorite experience so far but she loved running orientation for Cohort 40! The event was at an overnight camp on the Eastern Shore and she got to connect with students over outdoor activities.

What are some of your goals for the QUEST program?

Marks is super impressed with how QUEST is run but she has her own goals to leave her “mark” on the program. She wants to focus on recruiting a diverse group of students from different populations and majors. Marks also wants to put on more engaging in-person events and make students even more excited about QUEST. She strives to build strong relationships and support students during their undergrad journeys.

Thanks Emily for sitting down with QUESTPress. We’re so glad to welcome you to QUEST!