Summer break is the perfect time to recharge — but it’s also a golden opportunity to invest in yourself. Whether you’re a graduate student working through coursework or heading into your final year, using the summer months to build skills can help you feel more confident and career-ready when you return to campus.

Here are a few ways to use your summer wisely:

1. Learn Something New (at Your Own Pace)

Just because class is out doesn’t mean learning has to stop. Try taking a free or low-cost online course to explore a new skill or deepen one you already have.

• Interested in coding? Check out the UMBC Training Centers’ courses on programming and software development.
• Want to improve your data skills? Explore LinkedIn Learning or Coursera.
• Thinking about graduate school? Practice GRE vocabulary or sample problems.

Even committing just a few hours a week can make a noticeable difference.

2. Volunteer or Freelance

Giving back is a great way to gain real-world experience — plus, it looks great on a resume. Find a nonprofit, community group, or campus department where you can offer your help. You can also explore small freelance projects to build your portfolio — especially if you're in writing, design, or tech. Check out the Forage’s job simulations as another way to build skills that replicate real work in the field.

3. Work on a Personal Project

Have a passion you’ve been putting off? Now’s your time. Create a blog, design an app, start a podcast, or build something hands-on. Employers love to see initiative and creativity—especially when you can explain the “why” behind your work.

4. Update Your Materials

Use this time to refresh your resume, update your LinkedIn profile, and complete your Handshake profile. Add new experiences, clean up formatting, and make sure your materials reflect the kind of opportunities you want moving forward. Depending on the roles you are applying for, you may also want to consider create separate resumes to better match job positions.

5. Reflect and Plan

Summer is a great time to take a step back and reflect on your goals. What did you learn last semester? What kind of work excites you? Where do you want to grow? Journaling or creating a simple vision board can help you stay focused and intentional about the year ahead. And should something change during the academic year, it’s ok to continue to hone and revise your career plan as needed.

Looking for Summer Career Inspiration?

Check out the UMBC Career Center’s podcast, "UMBC Careers Unleashed — featuring real stories, tips, and advice from the Career Center’s staff and UMBC students. It’s perfect for a walk, commute, or summer chill session.

Listen here and get inspired to make this summer your most strategic one yet. And if you need help kicking off your plans, the Career Center is open during the summer with drop-ins and 1:1 virtual and in-person appointments.

You've got time — and you’ve got options. Let summer be your launchpad, and good luck!

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!