⚔️ Join the Mission ⚔️

Ready to put your security skills to the test?

On February 25th from 12-1pm in ILSB 233, students will step into the role of a DevSecOps team in a choose-your-own-adventure tabletop exercise. Through guided discussion, you'll work through realistic software security scenarios and decide how to respond to emerging threats.

Hosted in collaboration with CyberDawgs!

Think strategically. Respond decisively. Secure the system.

Time: 11:00 AM - Bus Arrival/Loading

Time: 11:10 AM - Depart

Time: 11:30 AM - Arrive

Time: 1:30 PM - Bus Arrival/Loading

Time: 1:40 PM - Depart

Time: 2:00 PM - Arrive

Name: Jana Esmat

Pronouns: She/Her

Semester of Internship: Spring 2026

Major: Information Systems & Financial Economics

Current Class Level: Senior

This semester I completed a(n)...: Co-Op

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Red Bull North America, INC.

Location of the Organization (City, State): Santa Monica, California

Title of position: Baltimore Student Marketeer Team Lead

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

As the Red Bull Student Marketeer Team Lead for the Baltimore Team, I oversee recruitment, onboarding, and training while continuing to execute in-field marketing initiatives. I was promoted to Team Lead in September after serving as a Student Marketeer for over a year and am proud to be the first UMBC student to hold this role. In my day-to-day responsibilities, I coach team members, contribute ideas during weekly meetings, support new hire training, and ensure executional excellence in the field. I also continue actively sampling, organizing events, and engaging directly with consumers across Baltimore, D.C., and the nation, whenever there's a big Red Bull moment happening in any other state, through strategic activations and events, I have helped increase brand awareness, drive product trials, and expand Red Bull's presence on campus, while building meaningful connections with diverse communities and organizations.

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

I first learned about the Red Bull Student Marketeer position in May 2024 while attending a Red Bull Show run Formula 1 event in Washington, D.C. At the event, I met my now former Team Lead, who was sampling and representing the brand. We had a great conversation about Red Bull, campus involvement, and my interests, and she shared that they were actively recruiting Student Marketeers from UMBC. She took my contact information and later sent me the application through LinkedIn. I submitted my application shortly after in May, excited about the opportunity to represent a brand I had long admired.

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 have enjoyed most about my position is the opportunity to be part of unforgettable experiences while representing a global brand. Through Red Bull, I have had the chance to work at incredible events and concerts, and even travel to places like Boston, Massachusetts and Santa Monica, California to be part of major global moments such as the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Finale. It is inspiring to work for a company that is consistently ranked as having one of the best student jobs in the world, and I am especially proud not only to have been part of it, but to serve as the Team Lead for my city. Beyond the events, what stands out most is the community, teamwork, and connecting with Student Marketeers from across the country has given me a strong network and a sense of belonging within the organization.

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

I believe I've made an impact by extending Red Bull's reach to UMBC and in the Baltimore market while also building a motivated, high-performing team. As the first Student Marketeer and now Team Lead from UMBC, I helped expand brand visibility through strategic activations, increased product awareness, and ensured consistent in-field execution. Beyond driving results, I've supported recruitment, onboarding, and coaching to ensure my team feels confident and aligned, creating a positive and high-energy environment that reflects the brand.

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

My advice would be to put yourself in the right environments and not be afraid to start conversations. I found my opportunity by attending an event, introducing myself, and showing genuine interest. You never know which interaction can open a door. 

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

"Work hard, play harder" is a mindset that truly defines my experience with Red Bull. I love being part of a role that pushes me to perform at a high level while also allowing me to be part of exciting, unforgettable experiences. The UMBC Career Center supported me along the way by reviewing my resume.

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.

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.

Looking to gain real-world exposure in cybersecurity and expand your network?

The 3rd Annual Billington Cybersecurity Summit is looking for volunteers from the WiCyS Mid-Atlantic community. This is a great opportunity to get involved in one of the region's premier cybersecurity events and connect with industry leaders, government professionals, and innovators in the field.

Event Details:
Location: Ronald Reagan Building:  1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
Dates: March 9–11, 2026

All WiCyS Mid-Atlantic members are invited to volunteer, with priority given to WiCyS student chapter members. Volunteers are welcome to attend the Summit, including the exhibitions, once their shift is complete.

Please note that Billington will not provide accommodation or transportation for volunteers.

Interested? Sign up here: Please read the form carefully to ensure you meet the requirements.
https://forms.gle/S3SmdJAkAR5ndm5t6

Take advantage of this opportunity to build experience, expand your network, and represent WiCyS at a major cybersecurity event.