Connor Adams is a senior communication major with a minor in sociology from the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Currently, he interns with the Maryland Clean Energy Center, supporting marketing and communication efforts to promote clean energy initiatives. On campus, he is the founding father and former president of Sigma Phi Epsilon, where he focuses on building community and leadership. Connor believes strong communication is key to confidence and impact, and in his second semester with the Oral Communication Center he’s excited to continue that mindset in order to help students strengthen their voices and carry those skills beyond the classroom!
Danah Almarzook is a business major and transfer student who is eager to build meaningful connections within the UMD community. As someone who values collaboration and mentorship, becoming a peer consultant felt like a natural and exciting opportunity to engage with peers and contribute positively to campus life. Prior to transferring, Danah volunteered as a mentor for high school students and discovered a passion for helping others feel confident, supported, and capable of success. As a peer consultant, Danah is motivated to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment while mentoring peers within the university.
Lara Becker is a senior communication and public relations major from Montgomery County, MD. Now in her second semester as an Engagement Research Fellow at the OCC, she focuses on researching and developing strategies to strengthen both internal and external engagement with the center. Outside of her work, Lara enjoys spending time with friends, exploring new places, and staying active through Pilates and the gym. She looks forward to continuing to support the OCC and helping it grow as a valuable resource for students across campus.
Edric Brillantes is a senior from Ellicott City, Maryland. He is a communication major on the media and digital track. Edric joined the OCC because he wants to help those in need of refining their public speaking and presentation skills. With experience in working social media and sports media, Edric is excited to support the OCC on the social media side of things. Outside of school, Edric loves to watch football, listen to music, and hang out with his friends.
Kirsten Butler is a junior pursuing a degree in special education.Through leadership roles and academic projects, Kirsten has developed strong presentational speaking skills and has recently discovered a love for sharing her ideas with others. Presenting has become one of her favorite ways to connect, inform, and inspire. Kirsten decided to become a peer consultant because she wants to help fellow students find their voice and gain confidence in presentations. She believes effective communication is a powerful tool for advocacy. Kirsten is excited to support others as they strengthen their presentation skills and share their unique perspectives.
Elise Chang is a senior communication major with a minor in Asian American Studies at the University of Maryland, College Park. She is from Baltimore County, Maryland. Outside of the OCC, Elise is involved in Lamba Pi Eta and Ballet Company Maryland at UMD. In her free time, she enjoys reading, creative writing, and dancing. Elise has always been drawn to writing, public speaking, and business strategy, but realized in college how she could shape her passions into a career. Elise wants to continue helping others grow confident in their communication abilities. Whether this is through mentoring, advising, or simply listening to her peers, she is excited to play a role in peoples’ professional development. Elise has been a mentee and a mentor within the OCC in past years. She is excited to consult and guide students in her last semester!
Nicole Cohn is a senior from Westchester, New York, studying communication on the media and digital track. In her free time, she enjoys going on nature walks, cooking, listening to music, and spending time with friends. On campus, Nicole is a part of the Women's Network Club, specifically on the marketing committee. She is also an active member of Greek life and enjoys having a close-knit community at such a large school. Nicole wanted to become a peer consultant to help students improve their public speaking skills. She was excited to join the OCC to help students overcome their anxieties surrounding public speaking. Nicole is always open to assisting with presentations and speeches and looks forward to helping students boost their confidence!
Raquel Crossling is a senior communication major on the public relations track from Montgomery County, Maryland. This is her second year tutoring at the OCC, and she’s excited to welcome both new and familiar faces this semester! Outside of the OCC, Raquel enjoys traveling, reading non-fiction, spending time with friends, and proudly showing off photos of her cats. After taking COMM107, she realized how common public speaking challenges are and how much support from the OCC helped her group prepare for their final. Now, she hopes to help others feel more confident speaking in front of audiences. Raquel is thrilled to be part of the team again and looks forward to supporting both her peers and the OCC.
Alyssa Daniel is a sophomore from Baltimore majoring in communication and marketing. She’s always loved helping people and has experience with public speaking, which is why she wanted to become a peer consultant. Alyssa is excited to support other students and help them feel more confident and less stressed about giving presentations. Outside of class, she’s usually spending time with family, walking around D.C., and trying new food spots. She also loves animals and being outside whenever she can. Alyssa’s looking forward to being part of the OCC team again and can’t wait for another great semester!
Emma DeSantis is a senior communication major on the media and digital track, from Ellicott City, Maryland. She knew she wanted to get involved in the OCC after speaking with those already a part of it and hearing how beneficial the experience can be. She is excited to dive in and help her peers in whatever way she can. She used to be apprehensive about public speaking and was not so confident about her skills. With the help of her peers, she overcame it and is ready to do the same for others! In her free time, she enjoys listening to music, hanging out with her friends, painting and crafting, and watching movies.
Diego Diaz-Cooper is a senior communication studies major from the local area, Silver Spring, Maryland. During his career at UMD, he grew passionate for public speaking and discourse in driven environments. Outside of the OCC, Diego is involved with Black Student Union (BSU) and the UMD Women's Basketball Athletics as a scout team member. Diego is a determined and kind individual who enjoys communicating with new people and aiding individuals in times of need. He believes that quality communication is the root of sustainable impact, which leads to lasting change. He is ecstatic and eager to bring his proven experience to help students improve skills applicable to the classroom environment and life!
Victoria Ebaugh is a junior from Baltimore, Maryland, majoring in media and digital communication. She transferred to UMD from Fordham University during her sophomore year. Now in her second semester with the OCC, she was first introduced while taking COMM107, and after having an appointment with a consultant, she knew that she wanted to get involved. As someone who would get very nervous about public speaking and would avoid it at all costs, Victoria now wants to help students feel more confident and show them that growth is possible. Outside of school, Victoria is working with UMD's athletic department as a marketing intern. She's super excited to work at the OCC!
Lily Espinoza is a junior at the University of Maryland, majoring in communication with a minor in general business. She is from Hereford, Maryland, and gained tutoring experience in high school. Lily also works at Stamp Student Union and has held several leadership positions in her sorority, where she continues to develop her communication and interpersonal skills. She became a peer consultant to strengthen her abilities while helping fellow students build confidence and succeed. Lily enjoys spending time with friends and practicing pilates, and she looks forward to supporting others as they grow as presenters and communicators.
Kendall Francis is a junior from Columbia, Maryland. She is currently a double major in English and communication, and is also minoring in law. Kendall has always had a passion for helping people and bettering her community, and her lifelong goal is to attend law school and start her own non-profit organization to help the youth. For the past two years, Kendall has facilitated leadership workshops for middle and high schoolers, where her public speaking skills truly began to excel, and she was able to help the youth find their confidence and excel on their own. Kendall also holds the position of vice president in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., where she focuses on networking, community service, and sisterhood within the UMD campus. Her experience in her sorority has helped Kendall continue to develop her confidence and facilitation skills, and she is super excited to bring her skills and experience to more students within the UMD campus!
Christopher Hyre is a senior communication major on the general communication track, from Gaithersburg, Maryland. He began his academic journey at Montgomery College before transferring to the University of Maryland. Although he once feared public speaking and presentations, taking a public speaking course at Montgomery College helped him to overcome those challenges, and develop a passion to help others build their confidence and improve their public speaking skills. In his free time, he enjoys hanging out with his friends and playing pickleball.
Ambika Kaul is a senior public relations student from Singapore with a strong interest in fashion, branding, and creative storytelling. She is especially drawn to how visual identity and communication shape the way ideas and narratives are presented. Through academic projects, leadership roles, and professional experiences, Ambika has developed skills in presenting ideas clearly, thoughtfully, and with confidence.Her interest in presentational speaking comes from a desire to connect with audiences and communicate creatively across different spaces, from academic settings to her future career. Outside of academics, Ambika enjoys travelling, exploring different workout classes, and learning new languages. She looks forward to supporting students as they grow as presenters and communicate their ideas in thoughtful and engaging ways.
Faizan Khan is a senior communication major on the general communication track from Burtonsville, Maryland. He spent three years at Montgomery College, earning an associate's degree while exploring his options for the future. During his first year at MC, a public speaking class became a turning point, helping him grow as a person and discover his passion for communication. After transferring to UMD in 2024, Faizan set his sights on a career in sports media. Currently, he works at UMD for the Big Ten Network, primarily in the control room. When he's not in class or at work, Faizan enjoys playing and watching sports, spending time with friends, and catching up on movies and TV shows. He's passionate about helping other students develop their public speaking skills, just as others once helped him.
AJ Larkin is a senior Communication major at the University of Maryland with a minor in real estate development & business, building experience, and leadership. He is also one of the four Captains of the men's lacrosse team and serves as President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, where he brings a people-first approach to collaboration and advocacy. He works with Under Armour part-time across communications and campus ambassador roles. One of his past events he helped plan and run was a major sample sale that raised money for Baltimore City Public Schools in Baltimore, MD, and strengthened internal/external messaging through cross-functional teamwork. Outside of campus and athletics, AJ is the founder of Larkin Lacrosse Training, a business he’s grown through relationship-driven communication and client-focused service. AJ believes confident communication is built through practice, and he’s excited to help students strengthen their voices and carry those skills beyond the classroom.
Kate Mastracci is a junior majoring in communication on the general communication studies track, while also pursuing a minor in Italian. She’s from Montgomery County, Maryland and originally came to UMD to study horticulture. After taking INAG110, her whole view on public speaking changed. Her professor’s supportive, workshop-style approach, where ideas were built up instead of shut down, helped turn a big fear into something she truly loves. Soon after that class, she successfully changed majors. Kate hopes to help others feel more confident and push past their fears through reflecting on her own similar experiences. Outside of the OCC, she’s currently a TA for COMM426 - Conflict Management, where she focuses on organization and leadership to help her professor and students be successful. She also loves the outdoors, playing volleyball, thrifting, and watching hockey with her friends.
Laura Mata is a junior communication major with a minor in professional writing. Having once felt nervous about public speaking, she found that with practice and repetition, presenting becomes more manageable and enjoyable, especially when speaking about topics she's passionate about. This experience inspired her to become a peer consultant at the OCC, where she supports students in developing confidence and effectiveness in their presentations. Outside of her work at the OCC, she enjoys yoga, bouldering, trying new foods, listening to music, and spending time with friends and family. Laura is excited for the opportunity to contribute to the OCC and looks forward to helping students grow.
Will McCloskey is a senior communication major specializing in media and digital communication from Baltimore, Maryland. At UMD, he is a member of the Professional Sales Club, intramural sports, and was formerly a manager on the men's basketball team. Outside of school, he loves music, basketball, and traveling. Will joined the OCC because he loves talking to people and helping them become the best person they can be. He is an avid believer in strong communication leading to a positive and more efficient way of life. With work experience in multiple industries, Will is confident in using his skills to become a strong contributor and facilitator in the OCC.
Lyndsey Miller is a senior from Annapolis, Maryland, majoring in communication at the University of Maryland. She transferred from the University of Tampa in 2023 and became an active member of the UMD women’s club lacrosse team, where she currently serves as vice president. In this role, she developed her leadership and mentoring skills. Before transferring, Lyndsey did not enjoy public speaking, but through her coursework and experiences at UMD, she has significantly improved her confidence and skills. She now hopes to support other students in overcoming the anxieties of public speaking, helping them feel more comfortable in both academic and professional settings. Lyndsey is excited to connect with her peers and contribute to their success.
Luke Mohan is a junior finance major from Morgantown, Pennsylvania, with a long-standing passion for public speaking that began in middle school. After taking COMM107 at the University of Maryland, he reaffirmed his enjoyment of public speaking and recognized his strength in an area many students find challenging. When given the opportunity to become a peer consultant, he was excited to help others build confidence and improve their skills. Outside of the classroom, Luke enjoys sports and travel and spends much of his time at school playing hockey and watching sports with friends. He is excited to work with a wide range of students at the Oral Communication Center and support them in reaching their speaking goals!
Sophia Moseley is a senior communication major and general business minor from Weymouth, Massachusetts. She was a teacher's assistant for the UMD Business Scholars "Enterprise Communications" course and worked on helping students improve their presentation skills on a weekly basis leading up to the final TEDTalk. Plus, she has experience working in an office setting and giving presentations to board rooms of managers and executives. Sophia is looking forward to fostering a supportive environment to help others improve their skills and confidence while continuing to learn herself.
Rebecca Overton is a senior from Columbia, Maryland, majoring in communication studies at the University of Maryland. She transferred from Howard Community College in 2024 and started working at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center. Before transferring, Rebecca was involved in Student Life as the logistics coordinator on the Student Program Board, secretary-treasurer in the Student Government, and an assistant in the Honors and Undergraduate Research Office. In these roles, Rebecca developed her leadership and public speaking skills. She now hopes to support other students and connect with her peers!
Zach Price is a junior from Germantown, Maryland, pursuing a degree in communication with a track in media and digital studies. Zach started his academic journey at Towson University, and transferred at the end of his sophomore year to the University of Maryland. Outside of the OCC, he is a member of the coaches video staff for the Maryland Terrapins football program, and has prior experience with the Towson Tigers football program as well as six years at his local high school. Until recently, Zach was unaware of his fear of heights, an unexpected challenge given that working at elevated filming positions is a crucial part of his job. Through a mix of confidence, support, and perseverance, he has continued to grow in his role. He hopes to use that experience to help other students with their potential public speaking fears.
Isabella Pulia is a senior communication major on the digital media track with a minor in nonprofit leadership and social innovation, from Baltimore, Maryland. Her desire to help others communicate confidently drew her to the OCC, as she is aware that public speaking can be intimidating. She is enthusiastic to help her peers communicate effectively through the OCC’s tutoring services. In her free time, Isabella enjoys staying active and spending time with her family and friends.
Nick Quagliozzi is a senior communication major from Long Island, New York. He is very passionate about his activity on campus, including an internship with Maryland baseball last spring semester. As someone who used to struggle with public speaking and communication, he is aware of the stresses people may find in this action, further pushing his urge to help others who may struggle with what he once dealt with. He is aware of how important public speaking is, both in school and in whatever life has to offer after college; which drives his interest in helping those who are in need while also learning new things from his colleagues as well. He is eager to contribute at the OCC this upcoming semester and can’t wait to meet many new faces on campus in doing so!
Jayne Samborn is a senior from Montgomery County, Maryland, double majoring in government & politics and communication. She loves connecting with others and building relationships, as seen by her involvement in numerous political, writing, and leadership based clubs on campus. Jayne also works for the Division of Student Affairs and is committed to helping Terps succeed. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends, playing with her dog, and doing arts and crafts. She has worked hard to improve her own public speaking ability and is excited to help others do the same.
Alexa Scheck is a senior from Miami, Florida studying communication. She wanted to become a peer consultant to help students improve their skills and become more comfortable with public speaking. In her free time, she enjoys hanging out with friends, going on walks, and cooking. Alexa is active in Greek life and loves meeting new people. She is excited to work at the OCC and support other students at UMD!
Lucy Schneider is a third-year general communication major with minors in Jewish studies and nonprofit leadership & social innovation. This will be Lucy's fourth semester as a peer consultant. She has extensive experience with public speaking, including a TEDTalk she gave in high school. Her involvement outside of the classroom includes serving as the senior advisor of the Jewish Student Union and working as a fellow for the Orthodox Union in their advocacy department. In her free time, Lucy enjoys long walks, hanging out with friends, watching sports, spending time with her dogs, and cooking. She is excited to work with new students this semester and can not wait to see you grow into great public speakers!
Madeline Seck is a senior digital media communications and multi-platform journalism major with a concentration in Black women studies. This semester, she is focusing on media strategies and promoting news for the Oral Communication Center. On campus, Madeline is the president of the Maryland Association of Black Journalists, the engagement editor for the Black Explosion News and a broadcast reporter for CNS-TV. She uses her oral communications skills while reporting and professionally when networking and she is excited to share her skills with the OCC!
Maddie Soder is a sophomore from Montgomery County, Maryland. She is studying communication at the University of Maryland and is on the public relations track with a minor in rhetoric. Maddie is a passionate communicator with experience working in customer service and social media. Public speaking is something Maddie has grown to enjoy, and through the OCC, she hopes to help others find it as fun (or at least not as scary) as she does. Outside of the classroom, Maddie is a member of the Maryland dance team and enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her friends and family. Maddie is excited to apply her communication skills at the OCC and looks forward to a great semester!
Rebecca Solon is a sophomore from Atlanta, Georgia, majoring in operations management and business analytics with a minor in leadership studies. She is on an accelerated three-year track to complete her bachelor’s degree before pursuing UMD’s +1 master’s in marketing analytics program. She enjoys cooking, watching TV, and hanging out with her friends in her free time. Rebecca joined the Oral Communication Center because she enjoys empowering peers to share their voices effectively. She believes that strong speaking skills can open doors in academics, careers, and beyond, and she looks forward to supporting students as they grow into more confident and impactful communicators!
Carrie Stanton is an undergraduate student specializing in digital and media Communication, possessing a robust foundation in public speaking, leadership, and peer assistance. She has honed her public speaking abilities through coursework at the University of Maryland, namely in subjects such as COMM107 and COMM306, where presentations and audience involvement were integral to the curriculum. Carrie possesses practical speaking experience from her position as a Senior Lead at the YMCA, where she consistently delivered presentations to colleagues, facilitated activities, and interacted with young children in an engaging and comprehensible manner. Carrie was motivated to become a peer consultant due to her direct comprehension of the obstacles encountered by college students, such as stringent deadlines, academic stress, and the necessity for support along their journey. Having received support herself, she is driven to assist others in traversing analogous journeys. She previously held the positions of treasurer and vice president on the Senior Student Council, working in conjunction with school organizations to orchestrate events and promote student projects. Carrie, a transfer from Virginia Wesleyan University with a focus in film studies and theory, possesses experience in producing, directing, and editing films. She is presently employed in the Engagement Suite of Residence Life, facilitating student transition, campus activities, and community development.
Madison Trout is a senior communication major from Center Valley, Pennsylvania. Madison is also a long jumper and short sprinter on the women’s track & field team at Maryland. In her free time, she enjoys going shopping, spending time with friends, and working out. Madison was first introduced to public speaking through a high school public speaking course before taking the course COMM107. She was not always fond of public speaking. However, public speaking helped her to develop strong interpersonal communication skills. Madison is excited to be a part of the OCC and is looking forward to helping other students!
Riley Ward is a junior here at UMD double majoring in psychology and communication with a minor in general business. Growing up she was terrified of public speaking but as she practiced and got better at it, now she loves it! Outside of school Riley is very active in the club Terps Raising Pups where she fostered a future seeing eye dog named Cheer. Riley is also an active member of Greek life and loves to travel. She is looking forward to helping others be the best public speakers they can be with OCC!