COMM Major is a 2021 Philip Merrill Presidential Scholar

COMM Major Daisy Yu Named a 2021 Merrill Presidential Scholar!

The University of Maryland's Philip Merrill Presidential Scholars program rewards and recognizes outstanding seniors at the university for the achievements. The program also recognizes the importance of mentorship and highlights pivotal K-12 and UMD mentors for each of the chosen scholars.

COMM major Daisy Yu has been named a 2021 Merrill Presidential Scholar. A double major in COMM and Chemistry, Yu is one of three students from the College of Arts & Humanities and one of 19 students chosen for this prestigious award. In receiving the award, Yu identified Matthew Yates (DuFief Elementary School in Gaithersburg) and Brooke Fisher Liu (COMM Professor, UMD) as the mentors who made the most difference in their academic development and success.

Here's what Yu said about the importance of mentorship to her success: "I was blessed to have Mr. Matthew Yates as my 4th and 5th grade homeroom teacher at DuFief Elementary School. To this day, I remember the patience and kindness he showed me when I made a serious mistake. This inspired my work in promoting academic and personal integrity through University Student Judiciary and influenced my own approach to teaching. In both, I hope to show those I am working with the same grace Mr. Yates showed me. My first semester at the University of Maryland, I decided to pursue a second degree in Communication in addition to Chemistry. As someone who was immersed in STEM throughout high school, I didn’t know what my career options were beyond being a public relations professional. Professor Brooke Liu, who taught my first public relations class, helped direct me towards resources and paths that aligned with my post-graduation goals. After listening to my questions and concerns, she provided her own professional opinion, connected me with people who were in my field of interest and directed me towards resources that solidified my desire to work in science communications. I am incredibly grateful to Mr. Yates and Professor Liu for their guidance and for this opportunity to thank them."