Yipeng Lu is a mechanical engineering student from Kunming, China, drawn to the field by a passion for solving problems and understanding how things work. At UMD, he has found a hands-on learning environment that allows him to explore mechanical systems and the field of engineering.

As an International Student Council (ISC) event coordinator, Yipeng organizes cultural and career-focused events for international students. “I aim to help create a space on campus where [international students] can be themselves and be appreciated for who they are,” he shared.

He also emphasizes the important contributions international students bring — “diverse perspectives, experiences, and ideas that enrich the campus community” — and believes that feeling valued allows them to contribute more meaningfully, academically and socially.

Being an international student has shaped Yipeng in significant ways, making him "more resilient, open-minded, and confident" and deepening his appreciation for diverse cultural and academic backgrounds. Beyond the ISC, he channels his creativity into real-world problem-solving through the Startup Shell Club.

His advice to fellow international students? "Take advantage of as many opportunities as you can… be yourself and stay true to who you are by pursuing what you genuinely want to do in life."