Meet Michelle Lopez-Castillo
INDS Spring 2026 Graduate Highlight Series
B.A.: Management, Advertising, and Entrepreneurship
Major, Minor, Certificate, and/or Honors:
- Deans List
Degree Mentors:
- Dr. Kristen Anchor| Associate Teaching Professor, UMBC Media & Communication Studies
- Kristen Schuler| Marketing Manager, Harkins, Inc.
- Steven McAlpine| Assistant Teaching Professor, UMBC INDS
Why did you choose to major in INDS?
I chose to major in INDS because it gave me the flexibility to pursue a path that truly aligned with my interests and long-term goals. Instead of trying to fit into a traditional major, INDS allowed me to build something that reflected what I actually wanted to study and eventually do as a career. The program helped me map out each component of my major in an intentional way, and it pushed me to think ahead about how my coursework connects to my future goals.
Another big reason I chose INDS was that it allowed me to stay at UMBC while still creating a customized academic experience. I didn’t have to transfer or compromise—I was able to design a pathway that felt practical for me.
What are your plans for after graduation, and how do you see using your INDS degree?
After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school and pursue an MBA with a concentration in Marketing. I see this as an opportunity to deepen my knowledge in a field that I wasn’t able to fully specialize in during my undergraduate experience. My INDS degree has given me a strong interdisciplinary foundation, which I think will be really valuable as I move into a more focused graduate program.
I’m also hoping to gain hands-on experience through an internship in marketing or a related field, while still remaining open to exploring different areas. Long term, I want to continue investing in and supporting small businesses, especially my own family’s business. I see myself using both my INDS background and future MBA to bring strategic thinking, creativity, and practical skills into that work
Were you involved in any clubs or organizations?
- Living Water/Campus Ministry| "Gave me a community and allowed me to stay grounded throughout my last semester at UMBC."
- Tri-Alpha Honors Society| Recognizes first-generation college students and provided a supportive network of peers with similar experiences
Awards, Certifications, Scholarships, etc. that you have received in your time at UMBC:
- Digital Tech Credential Certification| Pending 2026
Any thing you would like to share about your time at UMBC or in the INDS program:
Take it slow. There were so many moments where I felt pressure to have everything figured out—especially when it came to career decisions—but I didn’t always know what I truly wanted yet. Giving yourself time to explore, reflect, and adjust your path makes a huge difference. Slowing down those big decisions can actually lead to more clarity and confidence in the long run, and it’s something I wish I had embraced earlier.
For More information on Michelle's INDS journey please Click Here!
Posted: May 20, 2026, 12:06 PM
