The 2025 Waves of Change (WOC) STEM conference, hosted by Career Communications Group, Inc., is taking place October 23- 25 at the Baltimore Convention Center with options to participate either in-person or online. The conference features a career fair (Saturday, October 25) where top national and local companies in the STEM fields are actively recruiting STEM interns and professionals in addition to career workshops, and leadership and professional development programs.

You will need to register to participate. Open to ALL students! 

·       The job fair is free! To participate in the job fair only, go to: https://s4.goeshow.com/ccgroup/woc/2025/job_seekers_registration.cfm. Be sure to check the career readiness workshops that will be held throughout the career fair.

·       To participate in the full conference (in addition to the career fair) go to: https://s4.goeshow.com/ccgroup/woc/2025/student_registration.cfm and select whether you will participate "in-person" (Baltimore, MD) or "online".

There is also an opportunity to participate in the Undergraduate Research Showcase! Are you working on groundbreaking research? Showcase your work by participating in the Undergraduate Research Showcase.  Sign up here as soon as possible as applications are still being accepted. 

If you have any questions, please contact Diane Crump-Fogle (crump@umbc.edu) or Chrisi Giannakaris (chrisig@umbc.edu) from the UMBC Career Center.

The Career & Internship Fair on Wednesday, September 17, is your chance to meet recruiters, explore opportunities, and make meaningful connections that can launch your career. To stand out in a crowd of talented students and graduates, a little strategy goes a long way. Here are five creative tips to help you shine on the big day.

1. Research Employers Ahead of Time

Before the fair, browse the list of attending organizations in the Directory and look up job postings on Handshake and company websites of interest. Knowing which roles interest you before arriving at the Fair allows you to approach employers with specific questions and to see if there’s a specific team member to get in touch with. Demonstrate genuine interest when connecting with employers — recruiters always notice.

2. Have Your Information Ready

Because there will be a QR code at every employer booth for you to scan and share your information, make sure your Handshake profile is updated and complete. You also want to upload your latest resume to Handshake as well as keep a resume easily accessible on your phone. A more common practice at fairs in recent years is for employers to ask for a quick emailed resume or upload on their portal. Being ready with digital documentation shows professionalism and preparedness.

3. Gamify Your Goals

Turn your fair experience into a game to keep you motivated. Set specific goals before you arrive — like talking to at least five employers in your field or collecting three relevant business cards. See how you can make the most efficient route by looking up the map of employer booths in the Directory beforehand. This not only keeps you going but also helps you track your progress and stay focused.

4. Team Up with a Friend

Networking can feel intimidating, but you don’t have to go it alone. Partner with a friend to stay energized, practice your 30-second commercials with each other, and share leads on must-visit employers. Just remember to branch out so you each make your own connections and then reconnect to take breaks and compare notes. If you need another way to practice conversations prior to the Fair, check out the Big Interview platform.

5. Wear a Statement Piece

First impressions matter, and a subtle statement accessory — like a bold tie, a bright scarf, or a unique pin — can help you be remembered. Just make sure it complements your professional attire and reflects your personality while keeping things polished. There will be an opportunity to get a professional headshot taken at the Fair as well, so you want to look sharp.

Career Fair Ready!

The Career & Internship Fair is one of the best ways to connect with employers and land internships or full-time roles. Use these tips to get ready and stand out on September 17! We’ll see you there! 

Graduating soon? Whether you’re wrapping up your undergraduate or graduate degree, the final semester isn’t just about finishing papers and projects — it’s also about preparing for what comes next. The good news is that you don’t have to wait until after commencement to start your job search or build your professional momentum. With the right strategy, you can step confidently into the workforce before you toss that cap in the air.

1. Start Early and Stay Organized

Employers often begin recruiting well before graduation dates. Create a system to track job postings, applications, and follow-ups, whether that’s through a platform like Huntr or just a good old spreadsheet. Treat your job search like another class — set deadlines, make checklists, and hold yourself accountable. Find an accountability buddy, if possible, who is also graduating.

2. Leverage Your Network

Your professors, advisors, classmates, and alumni are valuable connections. Share your career goals and ask for advice or introductions. Check out Retrievers Connect or LinkedIn for possible leads to request informational interviews. A single conversation could open doors to opportunities you didn’t even know existed.

3. Polish Your Professional Materials

Your resume and LinkedIn profile should reflect your most recent projects, internships, and accomplishments. Tailor each application to the role you want by emphasizing relevant skills and measurable outcomes. Quantify your achievements whenever you can, and don’t just reiterate your job description. Showcase the impact you’ve made on an organization.

4. Gain Exposure Beyond the Classroom

If you still have time before graduation, consider short-term opportunities like micro-internships, freelance projects, job simulations, or research assistant roles. These experiences show employers your initiative and ability to apply what you’ve learned.

5. Prepare for Interviews with Confidence

Practice common interview questions, prepare stories that highlight your strengths using the STAR technique, and rehearse your 30-second commercial. Confidence comes from preparation — so put in the time now to reduce nerves later. You can even practice by doing a mock interview through the Big Interview platform or by scheduling a Career Center appointment.

Put It All Into Action

Want more strategies to help you transition from student to professional? Join us for the Career Launch Conferenceon September 12 from 12:00-4:00 PM— an action-packed afternoon designed to give you the skills, strategies, and confidence to land your first post-grad role. You’ll learn how to leverage AI tools, impress employers, and make meaningful connections over a free networking lunch. We hope to see you there!

Summer might feel like a time to slow down, but when it comes to your career, it’s actually the perfect season to build and maintain your professional network. Without the pressures of class schedules, midterms, and group projects, you have more flexibility — and let’s be honest, brain space — to invest in making meaningful connections that could help shape your future.

Here are a few simple (and stress-free) ways to stay professionally connected this summer:

1. Reach Out and Reconnect

Think about professors, classmates, or supervisors you haven’t talked to in a while. A quick message to say hi and share a brief update can go a long way in keeping your name fresh in their mind. Consider sharing an article or video that made you think of them. Networking isn’t just about asking for favors like a job — it’s about maintaining relationships over time.

2. Use Steppingblocks to Explore Options

If you're not sure where to start, check out Steppingblocks — UMBC’s data-driven tool where you can research jobs and look at alumni career paths. Steppingblocks is able to provide you with a list of companies that you can research and connect with. You also can get a better sense of how alumni got to your career of choice, allowing you to craft a more informed series of questions for informational interviews.

3. Conduct Informational Interviews

Have some free afternoons? Use that time to learn more about your field of interest. Reach out to someone on LinkedIn or Retrievers Connect to set up a virtual coffee chat. Ask about their career path, day-to-day responsibilities, and any advice they have for students like you. If you’re not sure about what to ask, you can check out our sample questions here. And if you need to practice before making the ask, hop onto Big Interview and practice answering questions.

4. Attend Events or Join Groups Online

There are tons of webinars, virtual meetups, and discussion groups happening year-round. Summer is a great time to drop in on a professional association event or follow an industry panel on LinkedIn Live. You can also go to Handshake and search for events that are relevant to your interests and open to all students. You never know who you’ll meet or what you’ll learn.

5. Follow Up (Even If It’s Just to Say Thanks!)

Did someone review your resume or give you helpful advice during the semester? Circle back with a thank-you message and a quick update on what you’ve been doing. Comment specifically on how their act of kindness positively impacted your career exploration. Small gestures like this can turn a one-time interaction into a lasting professional connection.

This summer, let networking work for you. Even just one new connection can lead to inspiration, insight, or opportunity. Log into Retrievers Connect today and start building relationships that matter — one DM at a time. 

Searching for a job takes more than just sending out resumes and hoping for the best. It’s a strategic process that involves preparation, research, networking, and follow-up. Whether you’re searching for your first internship, your first full-time role, or a new opportunity, having a clear plan can make all the difference. Here’s how to make your job search more targeted and effective:

1. Know What You’re Looking For

Before diving into applications, take time to define your goals.

• What job functions align with your skills and strengths?
• What industries interest you? (Think outside of the box here and consider different industries)
• What locations are you open to?
• What type of environment do you prefer (onsite, remote, hybrid)?

Having a clear focus will help you tailor your search and stay motivated.

2. Build a Strong Foundation

A polished resume, an updated LinkedIn profile, and a compelling 30-second commercial are all must-haves before you start applying. Make sure your materials highlight not only your experience but also your skills, accomplishments, and the value you bring to potential employers. You never know when an opportunity presents itself and you’re being asked to share your materials. Don’t be caught off guard and have all your materials ready.

3. Research Target Employers

Don't just apply to every open position you find. Research companies that align with your goals and values. Make sure that you can actually see yourself working there. Use resources like Buzzfile, that allow you to search for employers in Maryland by major, helping you identify companies you might not find through a basic online search. Or you can check out The Vault, where you can gain access to company rankings, industry guide books, career articles, tips, and more.

4. Use Data to Guide Your Search

Take advantage of platforms like Steppingblocks to explore where alumni from your major are working, what skills are in demand, and what career paths are most common. With Steppingblocks, you’re able to explore how professionals landed positions related to your interests, which can be helpful information as you prepare your applications. These insights can help you focus your search, schedule informational interviews, and prepare for job interviews with a clear understanding of market trends.

5. Network, Network, Network

Networking remains one of the most effective ways to find job opportunities. Connect with alumni, attend career fairs, participate in professional associations, and don’t be afraid to reach out to people for informational interviews. Many opportunities come from conversations, not job boards. Sign up for Retrievers Connect to gain access to alumni who are willing to help UMBC students.

6. Stay Organized and Persistent

Treat your job search like a project or course assignment. Keep track of applications, deadlines, follow-ups, and networking contacts. Consider using tools like Huntr to help you automatically organize your job search. Set weekly goals for how many jobs to apply for or how many new connections to make. Rejections will happen, but persistence is key. Keep going. You got this!

Take the Next Step!
Ready to take charge of your job search? Start exploring opportunities today by checking out our full list of job search tools. With a strong strategy and the right resources by your side, your next opportunity may be closer than you think!

Building a robust professional network is essential for career advancement, providing opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and job prospects. To effectively network involves intentional relationship-building that aligns with your career goals. Here are key strategies to help you develop a meaningful and effective professional network:

1. Define Your Networking Objectives

Begin by identifying what you aim to achieve through networking. Whether it's exploring career paths, seeking mentorship, or discovering job opportunities, clear objectives will guide your efforts and help you connect with the right individuals.

2. Leverage Existing Connections

Start with your current network, including family, friends, professors, and classmates. These individuals can provide introductions to professionals in your desired field, expanding your network organically. Consider networking with people outside of your industry as well, so they can pass your name along to more relevant contacts. You can also give them permission to forward your resume to others.

3. Utilize Online Platforms

Platforms like LinkedIn and Retrievers Connect are invaluable for professional networking. Create a compelling profile that highlights your skills and experiences, along with information on what you’re looking for. Engage with content relevant to your industry, join professional associations, and connect with both alumni and industry professionals to broaden your reach.

4. Engage in Informational Interviews

Reach out to professionals in your field for informational interviews to gain insights into their career paths and industries. These conversations can provide valuable information and potentially lead to mentorship or job opportunities. If you’re not sure what questions to ask, take a look at our website and/or Career Guide for suggestions.

5. Attend Industry Events

Participating in industry events allows you to meet professionals and learn about current trends. Engaging in these settings demonstrates your commitment to your field and helps establish your presence within the professional community.

6. Offer Value to Your Network

Networking is a two-way street. Be willing to assist others by sharing information, offering support, or providing introductions. This reciprocity strengthens relationships and builds a supportive professional community.

7. Follow Up and Maintain Relationships

After initial meetings, send personalized follow-up messages expressing appreciation for the conversation and reiterating your interest in staying connected. Regularly engage with your contacts to maintain and strengthen these relationships over time.

Put it All into Practice

During Career Month, we are hosting events all month long that could provide you with an opportunity to practice your networking skills. These events include an Art & Industry event on April 16 and an Industry Fair in the Sciences on April 23. Register now for one (or both!) of these events and take a proactive step toward advancing your career through strategic networking.

Searching for a job as an international student can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. According to Farhan Nadeem, International Student Career Advisor at the UMBC Career Center, the key to finding success is first shifting your mindset and remembering “it’s not a problem, it’s a process.” From finding on-campus jobs to navigating work authorization, here are some practical tips to help international students confidently approach their job search.

1. Think Outside the Box for On-Campus Jobs

Finding an on-campus job is often the first challenge international students face. The trick? Don’t limit yourself to obvious places. Explore different departments, talk to faculty, and connect with peers who might know of job openings. With over 200 student organizations on myUMBC, a simple conversation today could lead to an opportunity tomorrow.

2. Get Comfortable Talking About Work Authorization

Many international students worry about discussing their visa status with employers, but the key is to be clear and confident. No sponsorship is required as a student under CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT, just an offer letter — so let them know upfront that you already have U.S. work authorization. Once you've built rapport and demonstrated your skills, you can discuss H-1B sponsorship later in the process.

3. Use Smart Filters to Find International-Friendly Employers

Instead of applying randomly, target companies that have a history of hiring international students. Websites like MyVisaJobs and H1B Grader allow you to filter employers based on past sponsorships. The more informed you are, the better you can focus your applications.

4. Network Your Way to Opportunities

Networking doesn’t mean forcing awkward conversations — it’s about engaging in spaces that interest you. Whether it's student clubs, research projects, conferences, or LinkedIn, start conversations and build relationships. Employers often hire based on trust and referrals, so making connections now can lead to job opportunities later.

5. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

Would you hire yourself based on your resume? Try the 6-second resume challenge: If an employer only glanced at your resume for a few seconds, would they immediately see your value? Highlight your unique skills — such as multilingual abilities and cross-cultural experience — and format your resume to align with U.S. hiring standards.

6. Ace the Interview and Ask Questions

Interviews aren’t just about answering questions — they’re also your chance to ask them to gain clarification from employers. Be transparent about your work authorization, research company policies in advance, and use the conversation to gauge if the employer is a good fit for you.

7. Stay Motivated and Keep Going

Job searching can be tough, but remember: you are not alone. UMBC has a strong support system, and international students bring unique skills that employers value. Use LinkedIn, Retrievers Connect, and Handshake to track job openings, connect with alumni, and find success stories to inspire you.

More Job Search Tips Ahead!

Your personal brand is more than just a resume — it's the story you tell about yourself through your skills, experiences, and online presence. Whether you’re networking, updating LinkedIn, or preparing for interviews, a strong personal brand can set you apart in a competitive job market.

Here’s how to build a compelling brand that reflects your strengths and career goals.

1. Define Your Unique Value

Think about what makes you stand out. What are your key skills? What industries excite you? What problems do you love solving? Your personal brand should reflect your passions, values, and strengths. To gain clarity, consider writing a personal mission statement that summarizes your career goals and what you bring to the table. Or, you can schedule a career exploration appointment with a Career Specialist at the Career Center. We can help!

2. Optimize Your LinkedIn Presence

Your LinkedIn profile is often the first impression recruiters and potential employers have of you. Make sure it reflects your best self by:

• Using a professional headshot and a clear, compelling headline that’s aspirational.
• Writing an engaging summary that highlights your skills, career goals, and personality.
• Showcasing relevant work experience with descriptions of your achievements with attached relevant media.
• Incorporating industry relevant keywords and skills throughout your profile as much as possible.
• Actively engaging with the community by commenting on posts, sharing relevant information, contributing industry insights, and connecting with professionals in your field.

3. Tailor Your Resume and Online Portfolio

Your resume and portfolio should be more than just a list of job titles — they should tell a story. Highlight your most impactful experiences and quantify achievements when possible. If applicable, create an online portfolio to showcase your projects, work samples, or even testimonials from colleagues. Think of this all as evidence that ties your accomplishments to your brand.

4. Perfect Your Elevator Pitch

You never know when an opportunity to network will arise, so be prepared with a 30-second commercial that clearly states:

• Who you are
• What you do (or what you aspire to do)
• What makes you unique
• What you’re looking for in your career

Practice your pitch so that it feels natural and confident. Consider using Big Interview and practicing in real-time to the question, “Tell me about yourself.”

5. Stay Consistent Across Platforms

Your brand should be cohesive across LinkedIn, resumes, cover letters, and even personal social media accounts. Consider what font styles, colors, and tone you want to incorporate across all your materials so they’re consistent and a clear embodiment of you. Employers often check social media, so ensure that your online presence aligns with your professional goals. If necessary, clean up your profiles by removing any unprofessional content, or consider looking into privacy settings.

6. Build and Maintain Relationships

Networking is an essential part of personal branding. Build authentic relationships by engaging with mentors, alumni, and professionals in your field, using platforms like Retrievers Connect or LinkedIn. The more visible and engaged you are, the more likely you are to be remembered when opportunities arise.

What’s Next

Want to refine your personal brand and maximize your career potential? Attend the upcoming Keys to Success Workshop on Unlocking Your Personal Brand to learn how to authentically showcase your brand and take control of your career journey!

Speed networking events, like the CNMS Career Connection Social on March 13, offer a unique opportunity to meet professionals, build connections, and gain career insights — all in a fast-paced format. Whether you’re a networking pro or new to these events, preparation and strategy are key.

Here are some tips to make the most of this valuable event:

1. Share an Impactful Introduction
Prepare a 30-second commercial that highlights your name, major, career interests, and a fun fact or personal touch to make you memorable. Practice your delivery to sound confident and authentic. Talking about personal projects is also fair game.

2. Be Curious and Professional

Treat every interaction as an opportunity to connect with others on a deeper level. Make eye contact, smile, and show genuine interest and enthusiasm for the work professionals are doing. The energy you bring leaves a lasting impression, even if your chat is only a few minutes long.

3. Have Questions Ready

Prepare a few thoughtful questions ahead of time. If you have access to the list of attendees ahead of time, look through the list and come up with more tailored questions. In general, you can inquire about career path, company culture, or advice for students entering the field.

3. Use a Digital Business Card

Leave something with the professionals you connect with by creating a digital business card. This can simply be a QR code that leads to your LinkedIn page or online portfolio, or you can create a free one using sites like Popl.

4. Take Notes and Follow Up

Bring a notebook to jot down names, industries, and key takeaways after each conversation. After the event, send follow-up emails or LinkedIn requests to continue building these relationships. It’s never too soon to build a network when you’re on the job market! Check out the tailored AI prompts in our Career Guide for some additional ideas.

Don’t Miss Out!

The CNMS Career Connection Social is your chance to network with professionals in Natural or Mathematical Sciences and build relationships that could shape your future career. RSVP today to secure your spot!

Virtual career fairs are a convenient and effective way to connect with potential employers from anywhere. With the GCC Virtual Career Expo coming up on March 5, now is the perfect time to prepare so you can make a strong impression on employers and maximize your job and internship opportunities.

Here’s how to navigate a virtual career fair successfully:

1. Register and Research Companies Beforehand

Before the event, register here and explore the list of participating employers. Review their websites, job postings, and company culture to identify those that align with your career goals. Make a short list of employers you hope to visit at the virtual career fair. This should be done in order of priority to ensure you don’t miss out on your top choices.

2. Optimize Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Update your resume with relevant experience and skills, and have a PDF version ready to upload when you register. Also make sure that your LinkedIn profile is optimized and polished—employers may check prior to the fair to see who they’d like to speak to. If you need help with either of these materials, you can schedule a 1:1 appointment with a Career Advisor.

3. Prepare Your Elevator Pitch

Have a 30-second commercial ready that highlights your background, skills, and career interests. Tailor it for different employers and practice delivering it confidently. If you want to practice in a more simulated environment, log into Big Interview and practice your pitch in response to the “Tell Me About Yourself” prompt.

4. Dress Professionally and Set Up Your Space

Even though it’s a virtual fair, dressing in business casual attire helps make a positive impression should you be invited to speak 1:1 with employers, and can even help you get into a more professional mindset. Find a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background to minimize distractions.

5. Engage Actively and Ask Thoughtful Questions

Should you be invited to chat with an employer, be professional and engaged. Have questions ready beforehand and ask about the company culture, job opportunities, and the hiring process. Express interest in specific roles rather than just saying you’re looking for a job. You can review job postings within the fair that you can reference in these conversations.

6. Follow Up with Employers

After the fair, send thank-you emails or LinkedIn messages to the employers you connected with 1:1. Reiterate your interest in their company and remind them of your conversation by mentioning something specific and memorable that you discussed. Don’t forget to include the specific job posting you’re interested in as well.

Ready to Register?

The GCC Virtual Career Expo is an excellent opportunity to connect with top employers looking to hire graduate students, postdocs, and alumni from the STEM, Humanities, and Social Sciences fields. Don’t forget to register today and start preparing for a successful job or internship search!