Welcome to Career Month, designed to help students from first-year to PhDs "Explore what's possible and create what's next." Join us each week for events such as industry-focused mini-fairs with employers/alumni, workshops, and employer site visits.

The transition from student to professional doesn’t happen overnight — it happens through a series of intentional conversations. Whether you are a first-year student exploring possibilities or a senior ready to launch, Career Month is your platform to build momentum.

Connect with Targeted Industries

Generic career fairs can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve curated Industry-Specific Fairs to help you find the right fit. By grouping employers by field, you can spend less time navigating a crowded room and more time having high-quality conversations with recruiters who are specifically looking for your skillset.

Practice Your Professional Pitch

A career event is the ultimate "low-stakes, high-reward" environment to practice how you introduce yourself. You don’t need a perfect set of skills to make an impression; you need a clear interest and a few thoughtful questions. Every conversation you have is a step toward normalizing the networking process and reducing the "fear factor" of the job search.

Discover the "Hidden" Roles

Keep in mind that some of the employers attending these fairs might have openings that aren't widely advertised on external job boards yet. By showing up in person, you position yourself at the front of the line. Remember: Preparation + Connection = Opportunity. These events are where the "hidden job market" can become visible.

Maximize Your UMBC Network

Some of the recruiters behind the tables are UMBC alumni who were once exactly where you are sitting. They aren't just looking for resumes; they are looking for fellow Retrievers to join their teams. This shared connection is a powerful tool — don't be afraid to lead with it and use that to your advantage.

Put This Into Action

Ready to see where your degree can take you? Mark your calendar for our specialized Industry Fairs and start building the connections that count.

• Technology & Engineering | April 1, 2026
• Art & Industry | April 7, 2026
• Humanities & Social Sciences | April 8, 2026
• Sciences | April 15, 2026

One conversation can change your trajectory. Reach for the stars and go!

Be sure to also check out careermonth.umbc.edu and our full list of events to keep you busy all month long. 

You've prepped for behavioral questions, researched the company culture, and polished your resume to perfection. But as the interview date approaches, a new challenge often surfaces: "What do I wear?" For many students, transitioning from a campus wardrobe of hoodies and tees to a professional "business" look feels like stepping into a costume where you're the impostor.

The truth is, professional dress isn't about hiding your personality — it's about projecting competence and respect for the opportunity. When you feel confident in your appearance, that internal shift translates into external momentum for you and your career prospects.

Understand the Professional Spectrum

Not every "business" look is the same. A creative tech startup might lean toward Business Casual (think khakis and a polo or a blouse and slacks), while a law firm or a federal agency might require Business Professional (a full suit and tie or a coordinated blazer and skirt). Before you choose your outfit, research the vibe of the organization. When in doubt, it is always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed at an interview. Once you accept an offer, you can then observe the dress code at your new workplace.

Focus on the "Power of Fit"

You don't need an expensive designer label to look professional. A $20 shirt that fits well will always look better than a $200 suit that is two sizes too large. Thrift stores are also a good option to find something affordable that looks appropriate. Ensure your clothes are clean, pressed, and tailored to your frame. A sharp silhouette signals attention to detail — a trait every recruiter is looking for.

Build a "Starter" Capsule Wardrobe

You don't need a closet full of suits to be successful. Start with a few versatile "anchor" pieces in neutral colors like navy, charcoal, or black. A single well-fitted blazer can be dressed up for a formal interview or paired with nice jeans for a networking mixer. By focusing on quality over quantity, you ensure you're always ready to dress for success when a last-minute opportunity arises.

Let Your Confidence Lead

The goal of business style is to make your outfit "disappear" so your talent and personality can take center stage. If you are constantly adjusting a tie or tugging at a skirt during an interview, you aren't focused on the conversation. It can also be distracting to the interviewer. That's why it's important to choose professional pieces that not only look nice, but also allow you to move comfortably and speak confidently.

See How UMBC Suits You

Don't let the cost of professional clothing stand in the way of your next big break. The UMBC Career Center is here to ensure every Retriever looks the part through our Professional Clothing Closet, taking place on Tuesday, March 31 (10 AM to 2 PM) and Wednesday, April 1 (1 to 6 PM) in the Community Room of the Apartment Community Center. Come browse our selection of pieces and find what you need to launch your career, absolutely free. Remember, clothes are only available while supplies last, so get there early and kick-start your unique business style. 

Want to make the most out of your hackathon experience? 

Join HackUMBC and the Career Center at UMBC for a workshop designed to help you level up your hackathon game! Learn how to build standout projects, collaborate effectively, and showcase your skills to impress recruiters!

📅 Date: March 30th 

🕛 Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM 

📍 Location: ILSB 233

Whether you're a first-time hacker or a seasoned competitor, this is a great opportunity to sharpen your skills and make your work stand out. Don't miss it!

Name: Krishna Chaitanya

Pronouns: He/Him

Semester of Internship: Spring 2026

Major: Geographical Information Systems 

Current Class Level: Masters Student 

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

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Baltimore Green Justice Workers Cooperative 

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

Title of position: GIS Fellow 

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

I am working as a GIS Fellow supporting community organizations in Baltimore. My role is to create GIS StoryMaps that highlight community conditions, environmental issues, and the work these organizations are doing in their neighborhoods. On a daily basis, I collect and organize data such as environmental hazards, vacant properties, community resources, and 311 service requests. I analyze this information and create maps and StoryMaps that clearly show patterns and community needs. I also work closely with the organizations to understand their priorities and present their work and impact through maps that can support community awareness and decision-making.

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

I first heard about the position through Handshake and applied last summer. I joined the organization as an unpaid intern and worked on a few GIS-related projects during that time. After the summer, the organization applied for AGU's Thriving Earth Exchange Cohort and was selected. Following that, I was brought back in October to continue working with the team. Since then, I have been supporting their work by doing spatial analysis, helping with GIS workshops for their staff and stakeholders, and preparing maps and StoryMaps that show community conditions and the impact of their work.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

Handshake 

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

What I have enjoyed most about my position is working with data in a way that supports community organizations and residents. I collect, analyze, and present data on maps for the organization and the communities they serve. I enjoy turning data into maps because it makes information easier to understand and supports planning and decision making. I also appreciate being involved in the full process, from planning the work to analyzing the data, creating the maps, and presenting the results. Another meaningful part of this work is that it relates to environmental and climate justice, and the maps and analysis I produce can be useful for the organization and community residents.

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

My work helps turn community data into clear visuals that people can easily understand. By mapping local conditions and resources, I help the organization and community members see what is happening in their neighborhoods and support efforts to improve environmental and community well-being.

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

Be open to learning and take initiative when opportunities come your way. Even small experiences can help you build skills and lead to bigger opportunities later.

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

"I appreciated the support the Career Center provides to students. Through career fairs, networking events, and opportunities shared on Handshake, it becomes easier to connect with organizations and find internships. Their tips on social media, podcasts, and informative videos are also helpful for learning about career paths and preparing for opportunities."

🌟 Has a professor or staff member gone above and beyond to support your career and job search journey, grad school dreams, or professional goals? Now’s your chance to show them some love!

In the spirit of kindness, take a few minutes to recognize someone as a UMBC Career Connector.

Did they inspire you to pursue a particular path? Write you an amazing letter of recommendation?Review your resume and make it shine? Connect you with alumni or employers? Just make a positive impact in your life?

Say THANK YOU in a meaningful way! Each nominee will receive a small gift, a recognition certificate with your note, and a spotlight on our Instagram and LinkedIn during Career Month in April and throughout the summer.

How to Participate:

• Complete this short recognition survey HERE (you can submit multiple recognitions—one for each awesome person!).

Let’s spread some kindness and celebrate those who’ve made a difference. ❤️

Follow us on Instagram @UMBCcareers and LinkedIn @UMBCCareerCenter to see your nominee featured!

Nominations will be received on a rolling basis until end of April.

Navigating the U.S. job market as an international student can feel like solving a complex puzzle. Between understanding visa regulations, identifying employer sponsorship history, and adapting to American networking norms, the process requires more than just a great GPA — it requires a specialized toolkit.

The transition from academic success at UMBC to a professional role in the U.S. is a journey of strategy and persistence. Whether you are looking for CPT internships or post-graduation OPT opportunities, the right resources can bridge the gap between "applying" and "hiring." Here is how you can take control of your search.

Target Sponsorship-Friendly Employers

One of the biggest hurdles for international students is identifying which companies have a history of hiring global talent. Instead of guessing, use data-driven tools like GoinGlobal. These platforms allow you to filter for H-1B sponsorship history and see which organizations actively value the diverse perspectives international hires bring to the table.

Perfect the American-Style Resume

U.S. resumes have specific standards that may differ significantly from your home country's CV format. Focus on impact-driven bullet points rather than just listing tasks. Highlight your technical skills and cultural adaptability as competitive advantages. Remember, a U.S. employer wants to see how your specific actions led to measurable results — think "Preparation + Action = Opportunity."

Bridge the Networking Gap

In the U.S., "who you know" is often as important as "what you know." Building a professional network isn't about asking for favors; it's about establishing professional credibility. Start by connecting with UMBC international alumni who have successfully navigated this path. Their insights on the "hidden job market" can provide the roadmap you need to bypass traditional application hurdles.

Understand Your Work Authorization

Confidence is key when speaking with recruiters. You should be able to clearly and concisely explain your CPT or OPT status. When you can articulate the logistics of your work authorization, you remove uncertainty for the employer. Reframing the conversation from "legal paperwork" to "available talent" keeps the focus on your skills.

Put This Into Action

Ready to learn more about the job search process in the U.S.? Join us at the International Student Career Conference on Friday, March 27th from 10 AM to 2:30 PM at University Center 312. We hope to see you there. 

Name: Devarsh Wali

Pronouns: He/Him

Semester of Internship: Fall 2025

Major: Engineering Management

Current Class Level: Master's Student

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

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

Location of the Organization (City, State): New York City, NY

Title of position: MBA Fellow (Strategy & Operations)

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

During my MBA Fellow (Strategy and Operations) internship at Presence, my day-to-day work focused on using raw data to support executive decision-making and improve cross-functional execution. I partnered closely with the Chief Financial Officer, the finance team, and product stakeholders to build automated reporting and dashboards, analyze trends, and surface insights that highlighted the highest-impact areas to prioritize. I also gathered stakeholder pain points through working sessions, translated them into clear problem statements and proposed solutions, and drove alignment by creating a standardized KPI glossary so teams used consistent definitions. Across the 10-week internship, I balanced four projects in parallel, delivered weekly updates to leadership, and kept execution moving by unblocking dependencies and clarifying requirements with each team.

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

I found the MBA Fellow (Strategy and Operations) role at Presence through my LinkedIn network while actively tracking high-growth startups. I first heard about the opportunity in early August 2025 and submitted my application shortly after, within the same week. After applying, I received the interview call in mid September and received the offer by late September to start my internship in early October 2025.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

LinkedIn or other social media

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

What I enjoyed most was having a great mentor and getting to work directly with executive leadership at a high-growth startup. Being trusted with real problems, moving fast, and collaborating closely across finance and product made the work both challenging and genuinely rewarding.

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

I made impact by turning raw data and stakeholder pain points into automation and decision-ready insights for leadership. I partnered closely with the Chief Financial Officer, finance, and product teams to streamline reporting and prioritize the highest-impact areas, delivering four projects in a 10-week internship. My proposed automation solutions were estimated to save about 200 hours per week, and I reduced cross-functional conflicts by establishing a standard KPI glossary that made definitions visible and consistent across teams.

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

My advice would be to tailor your resume for every role and treat the search like a consistent funnel, not a one-time push. Apply early, keep your applications high-quality, and pair them with daily outreach to alumni or team members using one specific reason you fit. For interviews, use SAR-M for product and analytics questions (Situation, Action, Result, with the Metric you helped improve) to show structured thinking and measurable impact, and use STAR for general behavioral questions to keep stories clear and credible. As a weekly target, aim for 20–25 tailored applications and 10–15 tailored outreach messages per day, with 6–8 reusable stories ready to go.

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 about my MBA Fellow role at Presence was working with raw data to automate reporting, surface clear insights, and help executive leadership, especially the Chief Financial Officer, focus on the highest-impact priorities. UMBC's Career Center supported me with practical resume and interview tips, which helped me land the internship and deliver across four projects in 10 weeks.