While the Spring 2026 semester has not yet begun, we hope you're enjoying a restful break. Student Disability Services (SDS) is here to support you and share a few important reminders to help you prepare before classes resume.

Important Reminder: Submit Your Semester Accommodation Request

If you have not already done so, please submit your Semester Accommodation Request as soon as possible.

A Semester Accommodation Request must be completed each semester you are enrolled and seeking accommodations.

How to submit your request:

1. Log into Accommodate using the Student Accommodate Login

2. Complete and submit your Semester Accommodation Request

Submitting this request:

• Notifies SDS to send official accommodation letters to your faculty

• Allows you to select which accommodations you plan to use

• Designates the specific courses where accommodations are needed

Please note:
Accommodations are not retroactive. They begin only after the accommodation letter is sent to your instructor. Submitting your request at the beginning of the semester is essential for timely implementation, course access, and your overall success.

Accommodation letters may be sent at any time during the academic year and can be revised or amended if needed; however, accommodations are implemented only once the letter is officially sent from SDS to your faculty member.

Changes in Your Status

If your status changes at any point, such as:

• A new or worsening medical condition

• A new diagnosis or hospitalization

• Transitioning from undergraduate to graduate study

• Participation in fieldwork, internships, or study abroad

Please notify an SDS staff member promptly so we can best support you and determine whether accommodation updates are needed.

Testing Accommodations Reminder

Students approved for testing accommodations may schedule quizzes and exams at any time during the semester.

• SDS requires 96 hours' advance notice to ensure space availability and test coordination

• We strongly encourage you to schedule all quizzes and exams as soon as dates are known (many are listed in your course syllabus)

For more details, please visit the Testing Accommodations page.

If you have any questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. We're happy to help. Wishing you a smooth and successful Spring 2026 semester!

Join Us!

Come celebrate URCAD's 30th anniversary on April 22, 2026! 

The event will be moving to a bigger space in the RAC… how do you see your work being presented there? 

Posters, oral talks, films, exhibits, and performances are welcome. URCAD is open to all majors and group projects are accepted. You can present your capstone, Honors thesis, REU research, or you can be unaffiliated with a scholars program. 

Applications to present mentored research or creative worker open and will be due by February 16th and require a 200-word abstract and mentor approval. See you at the RAC as we showcase UMBC student research and art and throwback to the 90s!

Abstract writing workshop will be held on Jan. 7 (online).

To apply go to:

ur.umbc.edu/urcad

Name: Umme Kulsum

Pronouns: She/Her

Semester of Internship: Fall 2025

Major: Information Systems

Current Class Level: Master's Student

This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): UP Robotics

Location of the Organization (City, State): Bethesda, Maryland

Title of position: AI & Interactive Learning Intern

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:

 During my internship as an AI & Interactive Learning Intern with UP Robotics, I had the opportunity to work on developing innovative, AI-powered educational experiences. My main project for the semester focused on creating an immersive Space Explorer Chatbot, designed to introduce middle- and high-school students to Python, AI concepts, and problem-solving through a fun, space-themed storyline. My day-to-day responsibilities included designing interactive lesson components, writing Python logic for chatbot behaviors, testing user flows, and refining activities to be both educational and engaging. I collaborated regularly with my mentor to review design ideas, improve the learning experience, and ensure the activities aligned with curriculum goals. This experience strengthened my skills in AI-driven design, interactive learning development, and translating technical concepts into accessible, meaningful educational content.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?

I first learned about the internship opportunity through Handshake, where UP Robotics had posted the opening for an AI & Interactive Learning Intern. The position immediately stood out to me because it aligned closely with my interest in the intersection of AI, education, and user-centered design. After submitting my application through Handshake, I was contacted for an interview and later selected for the role. The process was smooth, and I appreciated how clearly the position matched my career goals. This opportunity allowed me to gain hands-on experience in a field I am passionate about and reinforced my desire to continue working on impactful, engaging AI learning experiences.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

Handshake

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?

What I enjoyed most about my position at UP Robotics was the opportunity to blend creativity with technology. I loved being able to design interactive learning experiences that made AI and programming approachable for younger students. The organization encouraged innovation, collaboration, and experimentation, which made the work environment truly inspiring. I also appreciated the mentorship I received having guidance while still being trusted with meaningful responsibilities made the experience both supportive and empowering.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?

I believe I made an impact by helping students feel excited not intimidated about learning technology. Working on the Space Explorer Chatbot allowed me to take something as complex as AI and transform it into an experience that feels playful, welcoming, and achievable for beginners. It felt meaningful to know that something I built could be a student's first positive interaction with coding or AI. I also contributed new ideas and creative elements that UP Robotics incorporated into their lessons, which helped strengthen their educational programs. Knowing that my work might inspire curiosity or confidence in even one student makes the experience truly rewarding for me.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?

My advice is to apply early, stay open to learning, and don't be afraid to pursue opportunities slightly outside your comfort zone. Look for positions that align with your strengths and the areas you want to grow in. Use resources like Handshake and the UMBC Career Center, attend career fairs, and tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills. Most importantly, be proactive, reach out to mentors, ask questions during interviews, and choose environments that support your learning and creativity.

Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center.

What I liked most was designing AI experiences that truly engage students, and I'm grateful to the Career Center for connecting me with this opportunity.

January Building Hours

You made the connection at an event — now what? Following up after a networking conversation can feel uncomfortable, especially if you're worried about saying the wrong thing or coming across as pushy. The truth is, thoughtful follow-up is not awkward — it's professional. It's also one of the most effective ways to turn a short interaction into a lasting relationship.

Why Follow-Up Matters

Networking doesn't end when the event does. A follow-up message shows appreciation, reinforces your interest, and helps people remember who you are. Most professionals these days expect a follow-up — and many are happy to continue the conversation if you take the initiative.

Keep It Simple and Timely

You don't need a long or perfectly worded message. Aim to follow up within 24–48 hours with a brief note that:

• Thanks them for their time
• Mentions something specific from your conversation
• Expresses interest in staying connected
• Shares information or resources

A few thoughtful sentences can go much further than silence.

Focus on Connection, Not Asking for a Job

The goal of a follow-up isn't to ask for a job — it's to build rapport. Instead of jumping straight to requests, focus on continuing the relationship. Over time, strong connections naturally lead to opportunities, referrals, and advice, which is crucial given that you're now 20x more likely to get a job from a referral than a cold application.

Use Retrievers Connect to Follow Up with Confidence

Not sure how to reach out? Retrievers Connect makes following up easier and less intimidating. The platform is designed specifically for UMBC students and alumni, creating a supportive space for career conversations, informational interviews, and mentorship.

Because everyone on Retrievers Connect is there to connect, you can reach out knowing the expectation is conversation — not perfection. And if you're hoping to take things a step further and participate in a Retrievers Connect-powered mentorship program, graduate students can check out the Graduate Student Mentoring Network, or the GSMN.

Consistency Builds Confidence

The more you practice following up, the easier it becomes. Each message builds confidence, strengthens your professional presence, and helps you develop a networking style that feels authentic to you. It also tends to sting less when you don't hear back right away. Just go down your list and reach out to the next person. It can start to feel that easy.

Ready to Build Connections That Last?

Start turning conversations into career momentum by using Retrievers Connect to follow up, stay connected, and grow your professional network — without all the awkwardness. Good luck – you got this!

Get your abstracts ready over the break!

Registration for URCAD will open on the 2nd of January, 2026 and applications are due by Feb. 15. This year URCAD moves to a new space in the RAC!

Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day- 30th Anniversary!

Come celebrate 30 years of grit, grunge, and groundbreaking research!

On Wednesday April 22, 2026, Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day (URCAD) will feature research, scholarship, and creative work carried out by UMBC undergraduates. Student work will be shared through oral presentations, posters, artistic exhibits, performances, and film. Over 400 presenters participate annually. Researchers work with faculty mentors on independent research, or research that is part of the mentor's on-going projects. They are from all disciplines, and can be working on a thesis, capstone project, part of a scholars or honors program, or they can be unaffiliated. This campus-wide celebration of achievement affirms UMBC's commitment to the twin goals of research and a distinctive undergraduate experience.

All current undergraduates who have conducted research, scholarship or creative work in the last year may apply to present their results at URCAD. Mentors, fellow students, friends, family members, high school teachers and students, and the general public are invited to attend.

For information on how to prepare your 200-word abstract for the URCAD application please visit our guidelines page.

URCAD Abstract Guidelines

UR.umbc.edu/urcad/