Internships in the tech industry are highly competitive, but with the right search strategy, you can secure an opportunity that will set you up for future success. Whether you're interested in software development, cybersecurity, data science, IT, or others, here are some key steps to help you land a tech internship.

1. Build a Strong Resume and Portfolio

Tech employers seek candidates with relevant skills and experience. Highlight coursework, personal projects, hackathons, or freelance work that demonstrate your technical abilities. If you’re in software development, create a GitHub profile showcasing your code, add the link to the top with your contact information, and reference aspects of your GitHub throughout your resume. For UI/UX roles, build a portfolio website with your designs and write a narrative about how you completed projects from start to finish.

2. Gain Hands-On Experience

Practical experience is crucial to land a tech internship. If you have yet to land something formalized, consider working on open-source projects, participating in coding competitions, or taking on freelance work. Many companies also offer virtual internships and apprenticeships to help students build experience before applying for formal internships. You can also consider checking out sites like Parker Dewey and Forage. 

3. Network with Industry Professionals

Networking plays a huge role in landing tech internships, as you’re 10x more likely to get a job from a referral vs. a cold application. Attend career fairs, tech meetups, and industry conferences to connect with recruiters and professionals in your field. Engage with alumni on Retrievers Connect and LinkedIn, and join student chapters of professional organizations like the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). You can also find professional associations that are relevant to your interests through our Majors Resources page.

4. Apply Early and Strategically

Many tech companies recruit interns months in advance, so it’s wise to start your search earlier than you may think. For example, you can start searching for a summer internship in the fall semester. To help with this process, first go to Handshake to and review its internship postings. Then, you can also use platforms like Steppingblocks, LinkedIn, and company career pages to find openings. Tailor your applications by incorporating keywords and industry jargon to your materials, emphasizing relevant skills and quantifying achievements.

5. Prepare for Both Technical and Traditional Interviews

Most tech internships require technical assessments or coding interviews. Practice with platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or CodeSignal, which have free options for students and junior developers. Review common data structures, algorithms, and problem-solving techniques to improve your chances of success. For more traditional interviews you want to make sure you’re prepared to answer questions about yourself, your work, and the role. Practice your responses using Big Interview, or schedule an Interview Prep or Practice Interview appointment with the Career Center.

Time to Take the Next Step

As previously mentioned, one of the best ways to find a tech internship is by attending networking and hiring events. The Maryland Technology Internship Program 2025 Hiring Event is an excellent opportunity to connect with Maryland-based tech employers. There are also opportunities to meet with UMBC alumni in Data Science and Health Information Technology, as well as our Technology and Engineering Industry Fair as part of Career Month in April. Register now for these events to meet with professionals in tech and increase your chances of securing an internship. You got this!

A career in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) offers endless possibilities, from developing innovative technology to answering the world’s greatest questions. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking for ways to advance toward your career, here are five key ways to prepare yourself for working in STEM:

1. Research Career Paths

STEM careers span a wide range of industries, including healthcare, artificial intelligence, environmental science, and data analytics. Take the time to explore different roles, required skills, and potential career trajectories and see what excites you most. Use resources like Steppingblocks and the Occupational Outlook Handbook that  provide valuable insights into job outlooks and salary expectations.

2. Gain Hands-On Experience

Internships, research projects, and co-op programs are excellent ways to gain real-world experience. Many companies offer STEM-focused internships that help students develop technical skills to build out a more competitive resume. Look for opportunities through Handshake by using the Jobs tab on the homepage, as well as on our Majors Resources pages.

3. Connect with Industry Professionals

Networking is crucial in any field, even in STEM. Follow the Career Center’s myUMBC page to get notified of upcoming events. Keep an eye on Handshake events as well. When you see something that seems relevant to you, attend these events to meet professionals and learn about job opportunities. You can also connect with UMBC alum through Retrievers Connect as well.

4. Develop Technical and Soft Skills

While technical skills like programming, data analysis, and engineering are important, employers also value soft skills. In fact, according to NACE, the top attributes employers seek are problem-solving skills, team work, and communication skills. Develop soft skills by taking online courses, joining student organizations, or working on personal projects to enhance these skill sets.

5. Stay Updated on Industry Trends

STEM fields evolve rapidly, so staying informed is key. Follow industry news, read research publications, and join professional associations related to your field of interest. Keeping up with trends in areas like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and cybersecurity can help you stay competitive in the job market.

Take the Next Step

A career in STEM is full of opportunities, but preparation is key. Start building your network and explore your career paths today by attending the BEYA STEM DTX Career Fair and Conference. This event is an excellent way to connect with recruiters, learn about job openings and internship opportunities, and gain valuable industry insights. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to take your STEM career to the next level. Registration to travel with UMBC closes end-of-day on February 11^th, but you can also register on the BEYA website should you miss the deadline.

Good luck! 

Mark your calendars! The upcoming Spring Career and Internship Fair is this Friday on Feb 7th! This is a unique opportunity for international students to connect with potential employers, exploring job opportunities, and leaving a lasting impression. However, attending these events successfully requires more than just showing up; it requires thoughtful preparation. 

To help you make the most of career fairs, here are some essential Do's and Don'ts that will set you up for success! Let's dive in! 

DO's

1. Research Employers in Advance- Prior to the fair, take the time to research the companies that will be present. Understand their industries, the positions they're hiring for, and whether they hire international students. This will allow you to tailor your conversations, show genuine interest and engage with recruiters in a meaningful way. You can find the list of employers on Handshake.

2. Prepare a strong Elevator Pitch! Have a concise, 30 second introduction ready that includes your name, major, relevant experiences, and career interests. Focus on what makes you a unique candidate. A well crafted elevator pitch will ensure you make a strong first impression.

3. Bring a well-formatted Resume- Ensure your resume is up-to- date, free from errors and professionally formatted. Print multiple copies (15-20 or even more!) to distribute to recruiters. Having a polished resume in hand is crucial for leaving a lasting impression after a conversation. Need more tips? Check it out HERE

4. Dress Professionally- Your appearance speaks volumes, so dress in business professional attire, such as a suit or blazer with dress pants or skirts. A polished look will help you convey that you are serious and ready to represent yourself in a professional setting. 

5. Practice Confidence and Body Language- Confidence is key. Maintain good eye contact, offer a firm handshake, and speak clearly. Strong body language can make a significant difference in how recruiters perceive you. 

6. Ask thoughtful Questions- Show genuine interest in the companies you speak with by asking insightful questions. Inquire about their company culture, projects, and their hiring process. This demonstrates that you're prepared and eager to learn more. 

7. Create a Digital Portfolio: If relevant to your field, have an online portfolio (for example GitHub for coding) to share when talking to employers. It shows you're proactive and tech-savvy.

8. Follow-Up with Employers- After the fair, always follow-up by sending a thank you email to the recruiters you spoke with. Ask for their business card. Reiterate your interest in their company and highlight specific points from your conversation. A well-written follow-up ensures you remain on their radar. Do don't forget to connect on LinkedIn! 

Bonus- Highlight your international experience. Your Global perspective is a strong asset, so highlight your language skills, cross- cultural communication, and international work or academic experience! Also make sure to upload your resume in Handshake so recruiters can locate you!

DONT's

1. Don't start off saying "I am international Student"- While being an international student is an important part of your identity, don't lead with it in your conversations. Instead, focus on highlighting your skills, experiences, and what you can bring to the table. Let your abilities take center stage.

2. Don't ask about Sponsorship right away- while visa sponsorship is a crucial factor, avoid making it the first question in your discussions with recruiters. Employers may be unfamiliar with these options, so be ready to focus on building rapport and getting to know the company's needs first, then ask about sponsorship if it becomes relevant during the interview stage. 

3. Don't arrive unprepared- Walking into a Career Fair without researching companies or lacking a clear idea of what you're looking for can give off an impression of disinterest. Prepare in advance by reviewing the companies attending and understanding what positions they offer. You can find the list of employers on Handshake.

4. Don't Hand out Generic Resumes- If possible, tailor your resume to highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the companies you're targeting. A personalized resume shows that you've put thought into your application and can help you differentiate you from other candidates.

5. Don't Interrupt or dominate conversations- Be mindful of the recruiter's time. While it's great to engage in meaningful conversations, ensure your interaction are concise and respectful of the time as other students may be waiting. Strike a balance between showcasing your skills and listening actively. 

6. Don't be Afraid to Network with Peers- Other students at the Career Fair can be valuable resource. They may share insights from their own experiences or even introduce you to employers they've spoken with. Networking is not just about recruiters; it's about building connections with peers too. 

7. Don't Forget to Follow-Up- Not reaching out after the fair can result in missed opportunities. A thoughtful follow-up email can leave a positive and lasting impression ensuring that you stay on a recruiter's radar.

~Putting It All Together: Crating Your Elevator Pitch ~

When you introduce yourself to a recruiter, your elevator pitch should be ready to go. For example, you might say: 

"Hi, my name is [Your name], and I'm a [Your major] student here at UMBC. I am passionate about [specific field or expertise]. Through my experience in [mention a key skill, project or internship], I've developed strong [relevant technical or soft skills] that align well with roles in [specific industry or job function]. I'm particularly interested in [Company Name] because of its work in  [mention a relevant company initiative, value, or project]. I'd love to learn more about how I can contribute to your team and what opportunities you have available for someone with my background."

More Examples!

Final Thoughts and Tip Hack!

Remember, even if a recruiter doesn't have an immediate opening, the connections you make today may lead to future opportunities. The fair is a great chance to learn about industries and roles.  Stay proactive, keep refining your approach, and embrace each chance to grow professionally, and be patient.  You can now filter by CPT/OPT in Handshake to see the list of companies hiring awesome International Students like yourself! See you there! 

Believe it or not, it’s almost time for the Spring 2025 Career & Internship Fair on Friday, February 7, from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM at the Retriever Activities Center (RAC). This is the Career Center’s biggest event of the semester and we want to make sure that you feel adequately prepared. That’s why we’ve pulled together these tips that will be essential for your success.

1. Do Your Homework. We strongly suggest that you come to the fair knowing exactly who you want to talk to and where their booth is located. How do you find that information? By checking out the Career Fair Directory, and maybe even marking the location of your top employers on a hard copy or digital copy of the floorplan. Then, plan out your route so that you’re most efficient with your time. Consider visiting in-demand companies first if they have longer lines. Take a look at their current job openings to have a more focused conversation. And be ready to give them your best 30-second commercial.
   
   
2. Prep Your Materials. Once you know where to go at the fair, you need to make sure that your resume is updated and ready. Are all of your most recent and relevant experiences listed on your document, with bullet points that clearly state the impact you’ve made at that particular organization? Does your resume incorporate industry keywords that demonstrate your alignment with job posts of interest? If you need help, come to our drop-in hours at the Center. We’ll help you determine the skills and accomplishments that should be highlighted to help you stand out.
   
   
3. Leverage Handshake. In addition to the Career Fair Directory, you can review a list of employers on Handshake as well. New this semester, we’re adding a QR code to every employer table so you can check-in and your information is captured by the company. This will get you connected to the company more easily and allow you to more properly follow up after the fair (more on that below). You can also upload your most recent resume onto Handshake at the fair (so have your resume on your device) or prior to the fair so the company has that information readily available as well. Be sure that your Handshake profile is complete ahead of time and consider setting your profile to public.
   
   
4. Follow Up Post Fair. According to our latest UMBC Careers Unleashed podcast episode on Stress-Free Networking, you don’t need to worry about having little face time with employers at events like career fairs because it’s all about the follow up. What does this mean? You need to be intentional with how to (re)connect with the professionals you met at the fair. Send them a message or email reminding them of the context of your conversation. Don’t say something like, “you probably don’t remember me” because that’s presumptuous. Just thank them for the time you had at the fair and ask for another brief meeting or phone call to ask a few more questions. If you were unable to get their contact info at the fair, search for them on LinkedIn or Handshake and reach out from there.
   
   

With these essential tips, you’ll hopefully be fully prepared and ready to make connections at the Spring Internship & Career Fair. Best of luck, and we’ll see you at the RAC on February 7.

Welcome back Retrievers! We hope you had a good winter break, but now it’s time to talk about something important — your future.

No matter where you are in your academic career, there is always the looming pressure of starting your career after graduation. Many students make the mistake of waiting too long to start their search, only to realize that opportunities have passed them by. Don’t be one of those students! Here are some steps you can take right now to set yourself up for success and launch your career.

1. Update Your Resume and Cover Letter
   Your resume should reflect your most relevant experiences, skills, and achievements. It should also align with the top skill-based keywords found in job descriptions of interest. Remember, a well-formatted resume that is optimized for the job is more likely to make it past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and into the hands of a hiring manager or recruiter. Make sure it’s in good shape!
2. Strengthen Your Online Presence
   Believe it or not, recruiters are now checking LinkedIn profiles before looking at resumes and reaching out to candidates. Make sure your LinkedIn is up-to-date with a professional photo, an engaging “About” section, and relevant experiences with skills attached. You can similarly update your Handshake profile and share your profile link publicly with employers. To learn more about how to set this up, check out this article.
3. Research and Apply to Jobs Early
   According to Talentworks, Inc., there is an 8 TIMES ADVANTAGE to applying within the first 96 hours of a job being posted. In fact, the start of the new year is a peak hiring period, so don’t wait until after graduation to start applying. Set aside time each week to browse job search sites, attend career fairs, and tap your network for leads.
4. Practice Your Interview Skills
   Confidence in interviews comes with preparation and practice. Explore the practice question sets in Big Interview, record responses in real time, and send your videos to the Career Center for feedback. Then, schedule a Practice Interview appointment with the Career Center to get comfortable answering common questions and to brainstorm questions to ask the interviewer.

Don't let your job search become a last-minute scramble. Use your time wisely by being proactive and strategic. Whether it’s fine-tuning your resume, networking with industry professionals, or practicing interviews, every step you take now brings you closer to securing a job you love.

To get more personalized support, attend Resume Rescue on February 4 from 10 AM to 4 PM and get feedback on your materials. 

Graduation is an incredible accomplishment, but it’s also the beginning of a new chapter filled with many opportunities and decisions. Here’s how to set yourself up for success in the post-grad world:

1. Polish Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Make sure your resume highlights your skills, education, internships, and work experiences. Tailor it for the jobs you’re targeting, focusing on measurable, quantifiable achievements. Update your LinkedIn profile with a professional photo, an engaging About section, and relevant keywords to increase visibility to recruiters. Don’t forget to showcase your coursework, course projects, certifications, and volunteer experience to further demonstrate your experience.

2. Tap Into Your Network

Your network is one of your strongest assets that can get you a job faster than it takes on average. Reconnect with professors, peers, and mentors who can provide guidance and potentially open doors for you. Leverage LinkedIn to find UMBC alumni in your field and initiate conversations. Reach out to alumni who graduated with your major on Retrievers Connect. Start with a polite, personalized message asking for insights into their career paths or industry trends. If you need help crafting what to say, check out our examples in our Career Guide. Just remember — networking isn’t about simply asking for a job — it’s about building meaningful professional relationships.

3. Explore Career Resources

Take full advantage of resources offered by UMBC’s Career Center. From workshops to one-on-one counseling sessions, these tools can help refine your career trajectory. Follow the Career Center’s myUMBC group to stay informed about upcoming events, blog posts, and helpful resources. Log into Handshake to check out events of interest and set up a job alerts to be informed of the latest openings in your field. And check out our podcast, UMBC Careers Unleashed, to learn more about career topics ranging from the resume to imposter syndrome.

4. Continue Learning

Graduation doesn’t mean the end of learning. Upskilling through certifications, online courses, or professional development workshops can give you an edge in the competitive job market. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or Skillshare offer flexible ways to enhance skills that align with your career goals. Whether it’s coding, project management, or public speaking, showing a commitment to growth demonstrates your adaptability to employers. It’s also a way to stay up to date with relevant industry trends while you’re job searching.

5. Set Clear Goals

Take time to reflect on what you want in your career. Is it working in a specific industry, contributing to a social cause, or continuing your education? Define both short-term and long-term goals and create an actionable plan to achieve them. Break down your objectives into smaller, manageable steps, such as applying to a set number of jobs weekly or attending networking events monthly. Goal setting not only helps you stay focused but also boosts motivation and confidence while navigating an uncertain job market.

Commencement is just the beginning of a journey filled with limitless potential. With these steps, you can transition smoothly into the professional world and take control of your future. Remember, you’re not alone—UMBC’s Career Center is here to support you every step of the way! In case you weren’t aware, you can still schedule appointments with us after you’ve graduated. Just check out our alumni policy and book a session on Handshake. Stay connected by following UMBC Careers on LinkedIn and continue to invest in your growth and network. The best is yet to come!

LinkedIn is a game-changer for networking in today’s job market. With over 1 billion users from 200 countries (1), it provides the perfect space to showcase your expertise, connect with industry leaders, and discover exciting career paths. Yet, many students find themselves unsure of how to leverage the platform effectively. Don’t worry — here are some actionable tips to help you succeed on LinkedIn.

Optimize Your Profile: First impressions matter, and your profile is the gateway to connecting with potential employers and collaborators. Craft a headline and summary that highlight your goals and unique strengths — avoid generic titles like “Graduate Student.” Choose a professional photo, and include detailed work experience that aligns with your desired industry. Add relevant skills tied to each position and incorporate industry keywords to enhance your visibility in recruiter searches.

Engage with Intent: Networking on LinkedIn is more than sending connection requests. Personalize each invitation by mentioning shared interests, mutual connections, or why you admire someone’s work. Unsure how to phrase it? Tools like ChatGPT can help you craft thoughtful messages. Stay active by commenting on posts, sharing insights, and joining conversations. Consistent engagement positions you as a proactive professional and keeps you on your network’s radar.

Use Advanced Tools: LinkedIn’s “Alumni Tool” is invaluable for finding UMBC alumni in your target industries. Reach out for informational interviews — many professionals are happy to share advice. If someone doesn’t respond, don’t be discouraged; move on to the next connection. Joining professional groups and participating in discussions is another great way to expand your reach and connect with like-minded individuals.

Tailor Your Outreach: Networking is about relationship-building, not immediate job offers. Avoid directly asking for a job in your first message. Instead, focus on establishing trust and rapport. Share value, offer help when possible, and become a reliable presence in your network. Over time, this approach can position you as someone they think of when opportunities arise.

With consistency and strategy, LinkedIn can be your gateway to a strong professional network and fulfilling career opportunities. If you need help to get started, sign up for a LinkedIn appointment with the Career Center. Otherwise, check out the UMBC Alumni page on LinkedIn today and start networking.

(1)   https://www.socialpilot.co/blog/linkedin-statistics

BEYA STEM Career Fair (FREE --Both In-Person or Virtual)

Friday, February 14, 2025

Saturday, February 15, 2025

Time: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Registration Deadline: Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Open to ALL Students (undergraduate and graduate)

Jobs--full-time, part-time, internships and graduate admissions

This event is sponsored by Career Communications Group (CCG) and is part of their large annual conference, which will be held at the Baltimore Convention Center. Representatives from major corporations and universities will be available to meet with students pursuing careers in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) fields as well as Business, Finance, and Marketing. Why should you participate?

•       FREE Career Fair (in-person & virtual options)
•       Career seminar options
•       On the spot job offers
•       Networking with recruiters
•       Learn and network with the country's best and brightest STEM minds

Registration is required. Your registration will give you access to the in-person and online Career Fairs. The UMBC Career Center will provide a free shuttle bus to the Career Fair on Friday. If you would like to take the free shuttle bus, you must register with both BEYA and the UMBC Career Center by Tuesday, February 11th.

•      To register, please follow the instructions at: https://careers.umbc.edu/beya 

Please be sure to upload your resume at the time of registration.

 Contact Diane Crump-Fogle (crump@umbc.edu) or Chrisi Giannakaris (chrisig@umbc.edu) at the UMBC Career Center for additional information.

Starting your career journey can feel like an overwhelming task, especially if you have yet to land relevant experience for your resume. However, with the right approach and mindset, landing your first career experience is not only possible, but also achievable.

Here are some essential tips to get your foot in the door with employers:

Tailor Your Resume. Optimize your resume as much as possible by aligning relevant experiences and skills with your job descriptions of interest. Use ChatGPT to determine the top skill-based keywords in the job description and see which ones can be incorporated into your resume. Not able to hit all the qualifications? No worries! Research has shown that just matching 50% of the keywords is good enough to be invited to an interview (1).

Develop Your Network. The power of networking when it comes to the job market cannot be understated, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics citing that 70% of jobs are found through networking (2). The Career Center offers a variety of different events with networking opportunities, including career fairs, industry panels, and UMBC Connects events, such as our campus visit with Career Center Employer Partner Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab on Wednesday, November 20th. There are also several online options to help build your network, including Retrievers Connect and the UMBC Alumni tab on LinkedIn.

Build Your Online Presence. According to Harvard Business Review, 40% of recruiters say that they have hired a candidate based on their LinkedIn profile alone (3). Therefore, it’s important to start building a LinkedIn profile that’s worth reviewing. Add a professional headshot and relevant cover photo, craft a strong About section, and include media and skills to your experiences. Need help with your profile? Schedule a LinkedIn appointment with the Career Center.

Get Interview Ready. Review common interview questions and make sure you’re comfortable answering them. For behavioral questions, prepare stories showcasing your skills using the STAR Approach (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Use Big Interview to practice answering questions in real-time, and share your videos with the Career Center for feedback. You can also schedule an Interview Prep or Practice Interview appointment to meet with someone in person.

Consider Volunteer Work. Search for local organizations that champion causes you’re passionate about and reach out to them to see if you can work for them. If you’re able to do tasks related to your major or industry of interest, that’s even better. Or you might consider exploring the many programs and initiatives of The Shriver Center or work closely with a faculty member in their research lab on campus. Either way, you’ll gain valuable and meaningful work experience. For more information about volunteer work and the job market, check out this blog post.

In conclusion, your efforts will pay off if you approach your job search strategically and stay persistent with the process. Everything mentioned here may take time, but with consistent effort, your first career will soon be within reach.

(1) https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/study-you-only-need-to-be-50-qualified-to-land-a-job-interview

(2) https://jobs.washingtonpost.com/article/how-to-land-a-job-by-networking 

(3) https://hbr.org/2019/05/your-approach-to-hiring-is-all-wrong

Navigating the job market can be a daunting process for any student, but international students in particular often face additional challenges — from dealing with visa requirements and work authorizations, to understanding cultural differences throughout the hiring process. These obstacles can make the job search even more overwhelming, but with the right tools and resources, international students can find success.

If you’re an international student, we’re here to help! Here are some tools that international students can use as they encounter the current job market landscape.

Research. My Visa Jobs.com provides H-1B Visa and Green Card reports for every year, listing the top Visa sponsors (that is, employers) via a number of different filters including occupation, job title, location, industry, college, petition status, etc. If you’re just starting out on your job search journey, this could be a good tool to use to determine which employers in targeted industries and/or locations of interest are open to hiring.

Search On-Campus. If you’re on an F-1 Visa, on-campus jobs are the most accessible employment opportunities available to you. Therefore, you need to know where to find them. This blog post by the Career Center lays out five tips to help international students locate on-campus employment. By knowing where to look, you can get a jump start on your search before the wave of applications roll in.

Search Off Campus: If you’re an international student able to look off-campus for a job or internship, you may want to check out GoinGlobal. With their job search function, you’re able to search 16+ million worldwide opportunities in various industries. So, whether you want to stay in Maryland or go elsewhere, GoinGlobal is a great tool to see what’s out there.

Explore Career Paths: Not quite sure how to get to where you’d like to go in your career? Look no further than Steppingblocks, a digital career counselor tool that uses data from real-life alumni and professionals to show you various alumni career trajectories. You can also explore skills, education, and employers for particular industries as well. For more information, check out this blog post.

Network and Learn: When it comes to the job market, information is power. The more you know, the more strategic you can be. Additionally, your network means everything in the job search. The more people you know, the closer you’ll get to landing a position. Therefore, if there are events available where you can do both, it’s important to seize those opportunities when you can. On November 11-15, the virtual International Career Summit is taking place, jam-packed with workshops, presentations, and panels designed to equip you with what you need to succeed in your job search. Learn more about the Summit and be sure to register!

We hope these tools and resources can help you confidently pursue opportunities, connect with employers and alumni, and smoothly transition into the next phase of your professional journey.