Career fairs can feel overwhelming — crowded rooms, long lines, and dozens of employers all competing for your attention. But the students who get the most out of a career fair don't just show up and hope for the best. They arrive with a plan.

Here's a step-by-step strategy to help you approach the Spring Career & Internship Fair on February 18 with intention and confidence.

1. Review the Fair Directory in Advance

Before the fair, take time to explore the list of attending employers. This helps you avoid wandering aimlessly and allows you to prioritize companies that genuinely align with your interests and experience.

2. Match Your Skills to Employer Needs

As you review the directory, ask yourself: Which employers are seeking skills I already have — or want to develop? Highlight organizations whose roles match your background, coursework, or transferable skills. Choose 3-5 priority employers and 2 backup options.

3. Visit the Employer's Career Site

Next, go directly to the company's career page. Look for open roles, internships, or entry-level positions that interest you. Having a specific job in mind makes your conversation more focused and memorable.

4. Identify a Role You'd Apply For

Choose one or two positions that feel like a strong fit. Take note of the job title and basic qualifications so you can reference them confidently during your conversation at the fair. Prepare a quick 20-30 second introduction connecting your skills to the role.

5. Go to the Booth with Purpose

When you approach the employer's booth, introduce yourself and mention the role you're interested in. For example:

"I'm really interested in the [XYZ position] I saw on your website. Is there someone on your team I could speak with about it?"

This shows preparation, initiative, and genuine interest — qualities recruiters appreciate.

6. Make the Connection Personal

If you speak with a recruiter or team member, ask thoughtful questions about the role and the team. Take notes if you can, and be sure to ask for their contact information or the best way to follow up.

7. Follow Up with a Targeted Message

After the fair, send a brief follow-up email or LinkedIn message with the following:

• That you met [name of recruiter] at the UMBC Career Fair
• The specific role you discussed
• Thank them for their time

This follow-up turns a quick conversation into a warm lead.

8. Build Momentum

While nothing is guaranteed, this strategy increases your chances of being remembered, referred, or encouraged to apply. Career fairs aren't about instant offers — they're about starting relationships that move your job search forward. And if you don't hear back, that doesn't mean you failed. Use this experience as an opportunity to refine your approach for the next fair or career-related event.

Put the Strategy into Action

Ready to try this approach for yourself? Join us at the Spring Career & Internship Fair on February 18 and put your strategy to work. Preparation plus follow-through can turn one conversation into your next opportunity.

Walker Avenue Information Sessions

• Room Selection Overview Info Session– February 23, 2026 at 12 p.m.
• Selecting Your Room Info Session– March 23, 2026 at 12 p.m.

** Applicants that complete their housing application, electronically submit the housing contract, and pay the $200 Reservation Fee payment are guaranteed on-campus housing.  The open contracting period will close on May 1 at 11:59 p.m. or when the first 1500 returning students finalize their applications, whichever comes sooner.

Residential Life Information Sessions 

• Room Selection Overview Info Session – March 27, 206 at 12 p.m.
• Room Selection Info Session– June 17, 2026 at 12 p.m.
• Preparing for Move-In Day– July 29, 2026 at 12 p.m.

Applying to UMBC and need on-campus housing for the upcoming academic year?

The UMBC Career Center is excited to offer virtual training sessions specifically for UMBC faculty and staff responsible for posting on-campus student jobs in Handshake.

These trainings are designed to walk hiring managers and departmental staff through:

• How to create an employer account in Handshake

• How to post and manage on-campus student jobs in Handshake

• Best practices for writing effective job descriptions

• Tips for reaching and engaging UMBC student talent

• Common troubleshooting questions

Whether you're new to Handshake or looking for a refresher, these sessions will help streamline your student hiring process and ensure your opportunities are visible to students.

Training Dates: 

• Tuesday, February 24 at 1pm

• Thursday, March 12 at 2pm

• Monday, April 13 at 11am

• Friday, May 22 at 10am (FWS)

Sign up for training today!  Calendar invites will be sent out after you register.

Before the training, check out our resources for posting on-campus jobs.

For questions or special requests, please contact Annie Byrd, Assistant Director in the Career Center at anniebyrd@umbc.edu.

Is your student organization looking to invite an employer to speak/network with your group? Has your student organization already invited a company representative/alumni to network or speak on a career-focused topic?

Let's Get the Conversation Going!

The Career Center is here to help you make a great impression and build lasting relationships with employers and alumni in your field. We aim to support all employer and alumni interactions on campus and provide the resources needed to foster strong, long-lasting connections with the UMBC community.

We'd love to collaborate with your organization! By completing the Student Org Guest Speaker Request Form, you can benefit from:

• Expert guidance on inviting employers and alumni to campus

• A thoughtful speaker gift for your guests

• Complimentary parking codes and directions for your visitors

• Event advertising through Handshake and the Career Center's myUMBC group events calendar

• Networking tips tailored for your student organization

We look forward to supporting your events and helping you connect with professionals in your field!