From new beginnings to transformative journeys, our alumni continue to impress us with their diverse paths and accomplishments. Here are a few inspiring updates from recent graduates:
Entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well for Dylan Doughty, who founded Dyl’s Carts in 2022, offering cart rentals for those exploring the beautiful Chebeague Island, just off Portland, ME. Dylan’s venture makes getting around the island easier and more enjoyable, serving both locals and tourists with a unique, practical solution to island transportation.
Since relocating from Orono to the vibrant Boston area, Rachel Davidson has been exploring a variety of fields, including childcare, teaching, and social media. Travel has also become a cherished part of her life, taking her on recent adventures to Israel, Greece, and Mexico. In addition to these experiences, Rachel has been on a health journey since 2021. Her affection for UMaine remains strong, and she eagerly anticipates visiting our alma mater soon.
Time flies for Angela Czup, who is now a fourth-year medical student at Trinity Oakland Hospital in Pontiac, MI. She’s preparing to enter the residency match cycle in 2026 and is on track to earn her M.D. in 2025. Alongside her studies, Angela has been collaborating with local doctors on research focused on myomectomy surgical techniques, comparing them to laparoscopic procedures — a promising step in her medical career.
After earning a master’s degree in environmental policy and sustainability management from The New School in New York City, Shay (Dalton) Bouchles is setting her sights on a Ph.D. Since her move to NYC, Shay has also embraced her identity as a transfemme, non-binary lesbian — a deeply personal journey that marks a significant milestone. Shay’s courage in sharing her story is a reminder of the diverse, supportive UMaine community that celebrates every alum’s unique path.
Lilja Bernheim is embarking on an exciting academic journey this fall as a Ph.D. student at the University of Stirling in Scotland, researching eco-memory within the post-Holocaust landscapes of Polish Galicia. Her work promises to offer unique insights into heritage studies, focusing on the intersection of memory, environment, and history — a fascinating direction that continues the UMaine tradition of impactful research.
Ben Robson has been shaping young minds as a teacher in the math department at Belfast Area High School for the past few years. Through his dedication to teaching, Ben is inspiring the next generation, carrying forward his UMaine education in ways that make a difference in the classroom and beyond.
Our alumni are truly remarkable, pursuing passions and creating change across a wide array of fields and communities. We’re proud to celebrate their stories and look forward to hearing from more Black Bears as they make their mark on the world.