Looking to strengthen your networking skills in a supportive, low-pressure environment? Join the UMBC Career Center and the Division of Professional Studies for The Dos and Don’ts of Networking, a fun and informative workshop designed specifically for graduate students who want to make better connections and feel more confident in professional settings.

The event will kick-off with a welcome and icebreaker to help you warm up and meet fellow grad students. Then, we’ll dive into a practical presentation covering what to do (and what not to do) when building professional relationships, whether at conferences, career events, or casual mixers.

You’ll leave with:

✅ A clearer understanding of effective networking techniques

✅ Tips for avoiding common mistakes

✅ Practice connecting with others in a relaxed, peer-to-peer setting

We’ll end the evening with guided networking practice, giving you a chance to apply what you’ve learned in real time — and yes, there will be light fare and drinks to keep the conversation flowing!

To guarantee your seat, you must RSVP in Handshake.

Who Should Attend: Graduate students from any discipline who want to improve their networking skills and feel more at ease in professional conversations.

Come for the insights, stay for the snacks, and walk away with stronger networking skills and new connections.

This educational, networking-focused event is proudly funded by the Janet C. Rutledge Graduate Student Well-Being Award, which focuses on the critical link between social connection, professional confidence, and graduate student well-being.

Please note: UMBC is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment for all faculty, staff, students, and visitors. If you would like to request accommodations for this event due to a disability, please notify us at least two weeks prior to the event. Requests received after that time cannot be guaranteed, but we will do our best to make arrangements for program access. Please contact the event host (careers@umbc.edu) with your specific request and be sure to include the event title, date, and time.

Ready to practice networking without the pressure?

We all know networking is key, but it can feel intimidating. Skip the standard presentation and join the UMBC Career Center, Division of Professional Studies, and the GSA (Graduate Student Association) for our latest "Pop-Up" Networking Practice Session!

The Game Plan: We will open with a quick connection icebreaker to warm everyone up. The rest of the evening is focused entirely on safe, structured practice. Whether you are preparing for a conference or a job interview, this is your chance to rehearse conversations, test your "elevator pitch," and get real-time feedback from fellow grad students

You’ll leave with:

✅ Multiple, real-time practice repetitions with different students.

✅ Clearer understanding of how to articulate your experience.

✅ Boosted confidence in starting professional conversations.

We know that great conversation and practical skills are always better when food is involved! Join us for structured connection, actionable practice, and plenty to eat to keep the conversation flowing.

Who Should Attend: Graduate students from any discipline who want to feel more prepared and at ease in professional settings.

Space is limited for this pop-up! RSVP on Handshake Today!

This special pop-up event is proudly funded by the Janet C. Rutledge Graduate Student Well-Being Award, focusing on the critical link between social connection, professional confidence, and graduate student well-being.

Please note: UMBC is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment for all faculty, staff, students, and visitors. If you would like to request accommodations for this event due to a disability, please notify us at least two weeks prior to the event. Requests received after that time cannot be guaranteed, but we will do our best to make arrangements for program access. Please contact the event host (careers@umbc.edu) with your specific request and be sure to include the event title, date, and time.