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. 

CADVC presents the INTERMEDIA AND DIGITAL ARTS (IMDA) Masters Program exhibition "despite // bất chấp" the 2026 IMDA MFA Thesis Exhibition. Opening to the public on Wednesday, April 1st with an artists reception on Thursday, April 2nd, 6-8 pm, the thesis exhibition features four graduate student presenting a range of artistic approaches: Taylor Goad, Nia Hampton, Bao Nguyen, and Lynn Nguyen.

Since the inception of the IMDA MFA Program at UMBC in 1992, this exhibition has become an annual favorite featuring installation, performance, film, video, photography, animation, interactive art, sculpture, audio works, painting, drawing, and print media.

Taylor Goad uses humor, the abject, and playful tufted rugs to humanize medical spaces, depicting illness while bridging craft, graphic design, and fine art.
Thesis defense: April 9, 10am-12pm

Nia Hampton (b.1991) is a West Baltimore native whose conceptual art and cultural work grapples with identity and power. Thesis defense: April 6, 10am-12pm

Bao Nguyen traces the materiality, community and ecology surrounding vacant lots. "I have been standing here for a long time" stems from from fieldwork in Southwest Baltimore. Thesis defense: April 7, 10am-12pm

Lynn Nguyen is a Vietnamese American interdisciplinary artist and wood sculptor whose practice explores the intersection of traditional craftsmanship, digital technology, and cultural memory. Thesis defense: April 13, 10am-12pm 

Note: While thesis defenses are open to the public, gallery doors will remain locked during the proceedings. Please arrive a few minutes early to be seated and plan to stay for the full first hour of the defense

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!

This summer course presents a special opportunity for students to investigate technology and science in their social context. The course has a special focus on race and gender while exploring medical and scientific research, bioethics, Henrietta Lacks, Black maternal health in Baltimore and the US, and values in experimental research. 

• Session 1
• Online Asynchronous
• GEP: AH, WI
  
• Cost-free Course Materials
• Instructor: Dr. Chris Blakley (they/them/theirs) 
• Questions? Email: cblakle1@umbc.edu

Calling all graduate students!

Presenting Your Research Poster to an Interdisciplinary Audience