Diana Velasquez Q&A

Diana Velasquez-munoz graduated with a political science degree at UMBC, but followed a path that led her to communications. She has worked in fields such as marketing, program management, public relations and outreach. She must feel right at home working for a higher-education establishment here at the IAA, having already gained experience with higher education institutions. However, don’t let that fool you, at our last orientation she described herself as a risk-taker. We welcomed her into our home in March of 2012 – let’s see what risks she’s taken since.

1.  What’s been your biggest challenge since you came to the IAA?

Connecting with the students when I interacted with them. I didn’t know how to start a conversation; I’ve never had to work with an agriculture niche student population. I just try to bring them in with the appeal of scholarships!

2.  You’re always bringing in interesting and good smelling food, what’s your favorite type of food? Favorite dish?

Sashimi. I would eat that and seaweed salad. I like Asian cuisine: Japanese, Korean and Thai in that order. If I could eat one thing all the time it’d be sashimi.

3.  What’s your favorite memory at the IAA so far?

This spring when I had lunch at the dining hall with Kelsey and Nick after they volunteered at the April FFA campus visit. Over ice cream I discovered Nick played guitar and sang and we came up with the idea of The Acoustic Jam and Volunteer Session at The Garden right there. Next year we’re thinking of having a whole band.

4.  If you had to describe the IAA in three words, what would it be?

The IAA “walks the talk.” Whenever the IAA sets itself up to do something they make it happen – student or faculty. We’re a very proactive and innovative group. I think we’re  trendsetters. As Johnny Cash would say, we walk the line.

5.  What do you do for fun after hours?

I started gardening and about a year ago I started my own garden. I also love to cook. My friends and I host cooking nights. Tonight, we’re having Japanese night. I’d like to learn how to jar my own jelly too – I have a very picky palette.

6.  What’s the most interesting aspect of recruiting students to this program?

I think it’s them (the students). Once they come in for Open House we have to tell them about the program from the start and how the IAA and UMD are interconnected. Just letting them know that we’re part of the UMD and AGNR family and connecting those dots for them. It always seems that we’re unknown. The challenge becomes increasing awareness.

7.  What do you think is your best improvement to the IAA so far?

Our website. We’ve tried to improve our image online and through social media – highlighting alumni and students online. Just improving our visibility.

8.  Where do you see the IAA in five years?

More well-known. The IAA will see more students. We will be number one in the Turf Bowl and as we progress, we’ll get involved in more competitions. I would like us to compete in the Cupid’s Cup in the future.

9.  What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken?

Moving to California. I had three days to make a decision. And also going to Nigeria last winter – that was exhilarating!

10.  You recently traveled to Europe, where do you want to go next?

Thailand and Japan for sure. If I went to Thailand, I’d take cooking classes. That would be my ideal vacation – learning to cook their authentic cuisine and the beach.

Interviewed: June 28, 2013