David Mejía-Buenaño

I first heard about The Universities at Shady Grove (USG) from my professors at Montgomery College (MC), where I was studying to get my associate's degree in Exercise Science. I went to an open house that USG was hosting and did a tour to see what the campus was like in person, and it did not disappoint. The facilities were beautiful, the academic environment was inspiring, and I fell in love with USG. I went to the table that had the Salisbury University Exercise Science program. After speaking with the representatives at the table, I knew exactly where I wanted to transfer to pursue a bachelor's degree.

Transferring from MC to Salisbury at USG was the best academic and financial decision I have ever made. USG’s affordability and convenient location allowed me to continue pursuing my educational goals. I had more time to work with my professors to expand my knowledge to become the best exercise professional I could be. The Exercise Science program offered by Salisbury University at USG has allowed me to form great friendships with my classmates and has opened doors to opportunities that I never would have imagined.

For example, in the Spring 2024 semester, I interned at Shady Grove Medical Center, right across the street from USG, in their cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program. My passion for working in a hospital as an exercise physiologist began during my time at MC, and I was grateful to gain experience in the setting I had long aspired to work in. While interning at Shady Grove Medical Center, I also began studying for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Exercise Physiologist exam. I have since passed the exam and obtained the American Heart Association Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support Certification, which is required for my role.

Toward the end of my internship, I was offered a position in the cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program, where I now work after graduating from the Exercise Science program in May 2024. I'm currently pursuing a master's degree in Health and Human Performance, also offered by Salisbury University at USG, where I serve as a graduate assistant.