At the start of a new academic year, many students arrive at UMBC hoping to land an on-campus job right away. These roles can be a great way to earn income, build experience, and connect with the campus community. But before getting too caught up in the excitement of applying, it’s important to understand the reality: on-campus jobs are limited and highly competitive.

Why On-Campus Jobs Are Limited

On-campus roles are in high demand at UMBC, and the number of positions is usually much smaller than the number of students who apply. Many jobs open only at certain times of year, and some positions prioritize students who are work-study eligible. For international students in particular who are typically only eligible to work on campus their first year, this means the competition is even tougher.

How to Stand Out as an Applicant

While you can’t control the number of jobs available, you can control how you present yourself:

• Polish Your Resume: Make sure it’s clear, concise, and highlights skills relevant to the position.
• Be Flexible: Consider a variety of roles across campus — from administrative offices to research roles to tutoring. The more flexible you are, the more opportunities you’ll find.
• Show Initiative: Demonstrate reliability, professionalism, and a willingness to learn. Employers want students who will show up on time and contribute positively.
• Leverage Connections: Talk to peers, faculty, and staff who might know of openings. Sometimes opportunities are shared through word of mouth.

Other Ways to Gain Experience

If you don’t land an on-campus job right away, don’t lose hope. There are many other ways to build skills that employers value:

• Volunteer with campus organizations or community groups.
• Join student clubs to practice leadership and teamwork.
• Consider programs and initiatives at The Shriver Center that focuses on community-engaged, applied learning.
• Work on personal or research projects that showcase your talents.
• Explore short-term, project-based experiences like micro-internships from Parker Dewey. 

Remember: not having an on-campus job doesn’t mean you’re falling behind. Employers care about the skills and experiences you bring — not just where they came from.

Take the Next Step

Missed this week’s On-Campus & Part-Time Jobs Expo? It’s not too late to reach out to employers. Check out the Directory to see who’s hiring, and find their positions on Handshake. Ask questions and make connections along the way. Good luck, and reach out to the Career Center for more support as needed.  

As we kick off a new academic year, it's the ideal time to gear up for the fast-approaching fall recruiting season. Many industries — especially competitive ones like finance, consulting, and tech — begin hiring soon after the semester starts. Whether you're aiming for an internship or a full-time role, early preparation can make all the difference between being overlooked and landing an offer.

Why Being Proactive Matters

In sectors like tech and finance, applications often open in August/September, with interviews and offers coming as early as November or December for May graduates (1, 2). Missing this window could mean losing out on top opportunities before you even begin. In fact, many employers convert a significant portion of their interns into full-time hires, meaning your summer internship strategy can shape your future career path (3).

Get Ready Now

1. Clarify Your Career Goals
   Knowing what careers and roles interest you is the foundation of effective prep. This does not mean that you need to know every applicable job title. Reflect on your strengths and skillsets, and map out your internship or job preferences. Companies will be more interested and engaged when you can articulate why you're a strong match.
2. Target Companies Strategically
   Don’t cast a wide net without intentionally considering your options. Identify organizations that align with your values, culture, skill sets, and industry goals. Think about the kinds of problems you want to help an employer solve as well. Develop a shortlist of companies to follow closely. Tailoring your approach based on how your experience is relevant to an organization makes a stronger impression than generic outreach.
3. Polish Your Documents
   Your resume and LinkedIn profile should highlight tangible evidence and leadership  — whether that’s through academic projects, extracurricular achievements, or internship experiences. Use the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame how to best showcase successes and skills. Quantify impact as much as possible.
4. Network Thoughtfully
   Since the Fall semester brings job fairs and info sessions the groundwork starts now. Reach out to alumni for informational interviews on LinkedIn or Retrievers Connect. Attend relevant workshops and events to build rapport and relationships before hiring ramps up.
5. Practice Interview Skills
   From behavioral questions to technical interviews, preparation for what’s ahead builds confidence. Use mock interviews through a Career Center appointment or Big Interview to improve your delivery and composure. Early practice ensures you're ready when opportunities surface. 

The Timeline: Fall Recruiting in Context

• August–September: Recruiters post internship and entry-level positions, especially in tech and consulting.
• September–October: Networking and career fairs are in full swing.
• November–December: Offers begin rolling out — often before the semester wraps up.

By following these tips and being proactive, you'll be ahead of the curve when competition heats up.

Act Now: Join Resume Rescue

Need help getting your resume polished and interview ready before all the action starts? Join us at Resume Rescue on September 2^nd or 9^th for tailored help on your resume. 

And be sure to subscribe to the Career Center’s myUMBC group to get notified of all our recruitment events.

Final Thought
Fall recruiting doesn’t wait — and neither should you. By setting clear goals, targeting the right organizations, and refining your materials and network now, you’ll be well-positioned to stand out and succeed. Make the most it and lay the foundation now for future success. You won't regret it. 

(1)   https://yello.co/blog/planning-your-fall-recruitment-season-and-heading-back-to-campus

(2)   https://www.levelall.com/blog-posts/fall-internship-recruiting-timeline-land-a-corporate-internship

(3)   https://www.naceweb.org/talent-acquisition/trends-and-predictions

Summer might feel like a time to slow down, but when it comes to your career, it’s actually the perfect season to build and maintain your professional network. Without the pressures of class schedules, midterms, and group projects, you have more flexibility — and let’s be honest, brain space — to invest in making meaningful connections that could help shape your future.

Here are a few simple (and stress-free) ways to stay professionally connected this summer:

1. Reach Out and Reconnect

Think about professors, classmates, or supervisors you haven’t talked to in a while. A quick message to say hi and share a brief update can go a long way in keeping your name fresh in their mind. Consider sharing an article or video that made you think of them. Networking isn’t just about asking for favors like a job — it’s about maintaining relationships over time.

2. Use Steppingblocks to Explore Options

If you're not sure where to start, check out Steppingblocks — UMBC’s data-driven tool where you can research jobs and look at alumni career paths. Steppingblocks is able to provide you with a list of companies that you can research and connect with. You also can get a better sense of how alumni got to your career of choice, allowing you to craft a more informed series of questions for informational interviews.

3. Conduct Informational Interviews

Have some free afternoons? Use that time to learn more about your field of interest. Reach out to someone on LinkedIn or Retrievers Connect to set up a virtual coffee chat. Ask about their career path, day-to-day responsibilities, and any advice they have for students like you. If you’re not sure about what to ask, you can check out our sample questions here. And if you need to practice before making the ask, hop onto Big Interview and practice answering questions.

4. Attend Events or Join Groups Online

There are tons of webinars, virtual meetups, and discussion groups happening year-round. Summer is a great time to drop in on a professional association event or follow an industry panel on LinkedIn Live. You can also go to Handshake and search for events that are relevant to your interests and open to all students. You never know who you’ll meet or what you’ll learn.

5. Follow Up (Even If It’s Just to Say Thanks!)

Did someone review your resume or give you helpful advice during the semester? Circle back with a thank-you message and a quick update on what you’ve been doing. Comment specifically on how their act of kindness positively impacted your career exploration. Small gestures like this can turn a one-time interaction into a lasting professional connection.

This summer, let networking work for you. Even just one new connection can lead to inspiration, insight, or opportunity. Log into Retrievers Connect today and start building relationships that matter — one DM at a time. 

Summer break is the perfect time to recharge — but it’s also a golden opportunity to invest in yourself. Whether you’re a graduate student working through coursework or heading into your final year, using the summer months to build skills can help you feel more confident and career-ready when you return to campus.

Here are a few ways to use your summer wisely:

1. Learn Something New (at Your Own Pace)

Just because class is out doesn’t mean learning has to stop. Try taking a free or low-cost online course to explore a new skill or deepen one you already have.

• Interested in coding? Check out the UMBC Training Centers’ courses on programming and software development.
• Want to improve your data skills? Explore LinkedIn Learning or Coursera.
• Thinking about graduate school? Practice GRE vocabulary or sample problems.

Even committing just a few hours a week can make a noticeable difference.

2. Volunteer or Freelance

Giving back is a great way to gain real-world experience — plus, it looks great on a resume. Find a nonprofit, community group, or campus department where you can offer your help. You can also explore small freelance projects to build your portfolio — especially if you're in writing, design, or tech. Check out the Forage’s job simulations as another way to build skills that replicate real work in the field.

3. Work on a Personal Project

Have a passion you’ve been putting off? Now’s your time. Create a blog, design an app, start a podcast, or build something hands-on. Employers love to see initiative and creativity—especially when you can explain the “why” behind your work.

4. Update Your Materials

Use this time to refresh your resume, update your LinkedIn profile, and complete your Handshake profile. Add new experiences, clean up formatting, and make sure your materials reflect the kind of opportunities you want moving forward. Depending on the roles you are applying for, you may also want to consider create separate resumes to better match job positions.

5. Reflect and Plan

Summer is a great time to take a step back and reflect on your goals. What did you learn last semester? What kind of work excites you? Where do you want to grow? Journaling or creating a simple vision board can help you stay focused and intentional about the year ahead. And should something change during the academic year, it’s ok to continue to hone and revise your career plan as needed.

Looking for Summer Career Inspiration?

Check out the UMBC Career Center’s podcast, "UMBC Careers Unleashed — featuring real stories, tips, and advice from the Career Center’s staff and UMBC students. It’s perfect for a walk, commute, or summer chill session.

Listen here and get inspired to make this summer your most strategic one yet. And if you need help kicking off your plans, the Career Center is open during the summer with drop-ins and 1:1 virtual and in-person appointments.

You've got time — and you’ve got options. Let summer be your launchpad, and good luck!

Searching for a job takes more than just sending out resumes and hoping for the best. It’s a strategic process that involves preparation, research, networking, and follow-up. Whether you’re searching for your first internship, your first full-time role, or a new opportunity, having a clear plan can make all the difference. Here’s how to make your job search more targeted and effective:

1. Know What You’re Looking For

Before diving into applications, take time to define your goals.

• What job functions align with your skills and strengths?
• What industries interest you? (Think outside of the box here and consider different industries)
• What locations are you open to?
• What type of environment do you prefer (onsite, remote, hybrid)?

Having a clear focus will help you tailor your search and stay motivated.

2. Build a Strong Foundation

A polished resume, an updated LinkedIn profile, and a compelling 30-second commercial are all must-haves before you start applying. Make sure your materials highlight not only your experience but also your skills, accomplishments, and the value you bring to potential employers. You never know when an opportunity presents itself and you’re being asked to share your materials. Don’t be caught off guard and have all your materials ready.

3. Research Target Employers

Don't just apply to every open position you find. Research companies that align with your goals and values. Make sure that you can actually see yourself working there. Use resources like Buzzfile, that allow you to search for employers in Maryland by major, helping you identify companies you might not find through a basic online search. Or you can check out The Vault, where you can gain access to company rankings, industry guide books, career articles, tips, and more.

4. Use Data to Guide Your Search

Take advantage of platforms like Steppingblocks to explore where alumni from your major are working, what skills are in demand, and what career paths are most common. With Steppingblocks, you’re able to explore how professionals landed positions related to your interests, which can be helpful information as you prepare your applications. These insights can help you focus your search, schedule informational interviews, and prepare for job interviews with a clear understanding of market trends.

5. Network, Network, Network

Networking remains one of the most effective ways to find job opportunities. Connect with alumni, attend career fairs, participate in professional associations, and don’t be afraid to reach out to people for informational interviews. Many opportunities come from conversations, not job boards. Sign up for Retrievers Connect to gain access to alumni who are willing to help UMBC students.

6. Stay Organized and Persistent

Treat your job search like a project or course assignment. Keep track of applications, deadlines, follow-ups, and networking contacts. Consider using tools like Huntr to help you automatically organize your job search. Set weekly goals for how many jobs to apply for or how many new connections to make. Rejections will happen, but persistence is key. Keep going. You got this!

Take the Next Step!
Ready to take charge of your job search? Start exploring opportunities today by checking out our full list of job search tools. With a strong strategy and the right resources by your side, your next opportunity may be closer than you think!

If you’re a student looking for jobs, internships, or career connections, Handshake is your go-to platform. Whether you’re just starting your college journey or preparing to graduate, Handshake offers personalized job and internship recommendations, relevant employer events, and career-building tools tailored to your specific interests and goals. But are you using it to its full potential?

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Handshake account:

1. Complete Your Profile

The more information you include, the better your job and internship matches will be. Add your major, graduation year, interests, relevant experience, and skills. Handshake uses this information to recommend jobs and events that are aligned with your career goals.

2. Upload Your Resume

Having a resume uploaded to your profile allows you to more easily apply to opportunities. It also makes it easier for employers to find you during their own candidate searches.

3. Explore and Follow Employers

Handshake gives you access to thousands of employers, many of whom are specifically looking to recruit students from UMBC. Follow companies you’re interested in so you can stay updated on their events, job postings, and application deadlines. Go to the “Explore” tab on Handshake and follow the UMBC collections that are applicable to your interests.

4. Attend Events and Fairs

Career fairs, information sessions, and workshops (in person and virtual) are all listed under the "Events” tab. Attending these not only helps you learn about industries and employers but also puts your name in front of recruiters. You can search and filter events by sponsor — for example, hosted by UMBC or by employers.

5. Use Filters and Keywords

Speaking of filters, you can customize your job search using filters such as location, job type, and industry. Save searches and favorite roles you’re interested in, so you can come back to them later or get alerts when similar ones are posted. This can help reduce the amount of time you spend searching for opportunities in order to fully take advantage of them.

6. Activate Your Profile

Make your profile public so employers can reach out to you with opportunities. You can also create a public profile link and create an email signature to further your reach. Taking these additional steps increases your visibility and could lead to an unexpected offer or new connection.

7. Make an Appointment with Us

Need help with all this and more? You can use Handshake to schedule a 1:1 appointment with the Career Center. Not only can we help you search for jobs and internships via Handshake and other platforms, but we can also help you build your resume, prepare for interviews, apply for graduate school, and explore careers and majors of interest.

Ready to Get Started?

Don’t miss out on the tools and opportunities waiting for you. Sign up for a Handshake account today and start exploring the platform — your future career connections are just a few clicks away!

In today's job landscape, distinguishing yourself from a sea of applicants requires more than just a polished resume. It's about strategic branding, proactive engagement, and showcasing your unique value. Here are some strategies to help you shine:

1. Define and Own Your Personal Brand

Your personal brand helps communicate your strengths, passions, and what you bring to an organization. Crafting a compelling personal brand involves identifying what you’re good at and aligning them with your career goals. A well-articulated brand can set you apart and make you memorable to potential employers.

2. Go Beyond the Application Portal

While online applications are standard, they often place you among countless other candidates. To stand out, engage in proactive outreach by connecting with professionals in your desired field through networking events, LinkedIn, and Retrievers Connect. Personal connections can lead to referrals, which has shown to increase your chances of being hired significantly.

3. Master the Art of Storytelling

Employers are drawn to candidates who can effectively communicate their experiences and achievements. Utilize techniques such as STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) in your interviews to convey how you've overcome challenges and contributed to previous organizations. This approach makes your experiences more relatable and impactful.

4. Demonstrate Your Value Before You're Hired

Showcasing your skills through tangible examples can leave a lasting impression. Consider creating a portfolio of work, writing industry-related articles or blog posts, or developing digital content that highlights your expertise. By providing evidence of your capabilities, you position yourself as a proactive and valuable candidate.

5. Cultivate Resilience and Stay in Motion

The job search process can be challenging, with rejections and setbacks along the way. Maintaining a resilient mindset and continuously seeking opportunities for growth, such as through the Paws & Pivot webinar series, can keep you motivated. Remember, each experience is a stepping stone toward your ultimate career goals.

Next Steps to Stand Out

Ready to put these strategies into action? Attend the Keys to Success virtual workshop on "Standing Out” on Monday, April 28 at 12 noon to learn actionable strategies on how to build exposure and enhance your skills. Register here and take a proactive step toward standing out in the job market!

Building a robust professional network is essential for career advancement, providing opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and job prospects. To effectively network involves intentional relationship-building that aligns with your career goals. Here are key strategies to help you develop a meaningful and effective professional network:

1. Define Your Networking Objectives

Begin by identifying what you aim to achieve through networking. Whether it's exploring career paths, seeking mentorship, or discovering job opportunities, clear objectives will guide your efforts and help you connect with the right individuals.

2. Leverage Existing Connections

Start with your current network, including family, friends, professors, and classmates. These individuals can provide introductions to professionals in your desired field, expanding your network organically. Consider networking with people outside of your industry as well, so they can pass your name along to more relevant contacts. You can also give them permission to forward your resume to others.

3. Utilize Online Platforms

Platforms like LinkedIn and Retrievers Connect are invaluable for professional networking. Create a compelling profile that highlights your skills and experiences, along with information on what you’re looking for. Engage with content relevant to your industry, join professional associations, and connect with both alumni and industry professionals to broaden your reach.

4. Engage in Informational Interviews

Reach out to professionals in your field for informational interviews to gain insights into their career paths and industries. These conversations can provide valuable information and potentially lead to mentorship or job opportunities. If you’re not sure what questions to ask, take a look at our website and/or Career Guide for suggestions.

5. Attend Industry Events

Participating in industry events allows you to meet professionals and learn about current trends. Engaging in these settings demonstrates your commitment to your field and helps establish your presence within the professional community.

6. Offer Value to Your Network

Networking is a two-way street. Be willing to assist others by sharing information, offering support, or providing introductions. This reciprocity strengthens relationships and builds a supportive professional community.

7. Follow Up and Maintain Relationships

After initial meetings, send personalized follow-up messages expressing appreciation for the conversation and reiterating your interest in staying connected. Regularly engage with your contacts to maintain and strengthen these relationships over time.

Put it All into Practice

During Career Month, we are hosting events all month long that could provide you with an opportunity to practice your networking skills. These events include an Art & Industry event on April 16 and an Industry Fair in the Sciences on April 23. Register now for one (or both!) of these events and take a proactive step toward advancing your career through strategic networking.

Your business style is more than just what you wear — it’s how you present yourself with confidence and poise. Whether you’re heading to an interview, attending a networking event, or starting a new job, dressing the part can make all the difference. But building a professional wardrobe doesn’t have to break the bank.

Here are some tips on how to develop your unique business style:

1. Understand Dress Codes

Different workplaces have different expectations. Business professional typically includes suits and dress shoes, while business casual allows for more relaxed pieces like slacks and blouses. Research the industry standard so you can dress appropriately.

2. Invest in Versatile Pieces

A few key wardrobe staples can go a long way. Blazers, dress shirts, neutral-colored pants, and comfortable dress shoes are great starting points. Stick to classic styles that can be mixed and matched for different occasions.

3. Prioritize Fit and Comfort

Clothes that fit well not only look better but also help you feel more confident and less self-conscious. Avoid anything too tight or too loose, and choose breathable fabrics that allow you to move comfortably.

4. Express Your Personal Style

While professionalism is key, your attire should still accurately reflect who you are. Add small touches like a unique accessory, a pop of color, or a signature piece that makes you feel authentic.

5. Build Your Wardrobe for Free

Looking for professional attire? Visit the UMBC Suits You: Professional Clothing Closet on April 1 from 10 AM to 6 PM! With support from our partner T. Rowe Price, the Professional Clothing Closet provides business-ready clothing to help you feel prepared for interviews and career events.

Don’t wait — stop by the Professional Clothing Closet and start building your business style today!

Searching for a job as an international student can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. According to Farhan Nadeem, International Student Career Advisor at the UMBC Career Center, the key to finding success is first shifting your mindset and remembering “it’s not a problem, it’s a process.” From finding on-campus jobs to navigating work authorization, here are some practical tips to help international students confidently approach their job search.

1. Think Outside the Box for On-Campus Jobs

Finding an on-campus job is often the first challenge international students face. The trick? Don’t limit yourself to obvious places. Explore different departments, talk to faculty, and connect with peers who might know of job openings. With over 200 student organizations on myUMBC, a simple conversation today could lead to an opportunity tomorrow.

2. Get Comfortable Talking About Work Authorization

Many international students worry about discussing their visa status with employers, but the key is to be clear and confident. No sponsorship is required as a student under CPT, OPT, or STEM OPT, just an offer letter — so let them know upfront that you already have U.S. work authorization. Once you've built rapport and demonstrated your skills, you can discuss H-1B sponsorship later in the process.

3. Use Smart Filters to Find International-Friendly Employers

Instead of applying randomly, target companies that have a history of hiring international students. Websites like MyVisaJobs and H1B Grader allow you to filter employers based on past sponsorships. The more informed you are, the better you can focus your applications.

4. Network Your Way to Opportunities

Networking doesn’t mean forcing awkward conversations — it’s about engaging in spaces that interest you. Whether it's student clubs, research projects, conferences, or LinkedIn, start conversations and build relationships. Employers often hire based on trust and referrals, so making connections now can lead to job opportunities later.

5. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

Would you hire yourself based on your resume? Try the 6-second resume challenge: If an employer only glanced at your resume for a few seconds, would they immediately see your value? Highlight your unique skills — such as multilingual abilities and cross-cultural experience — and format your resume to align with U.S. hiring standards.

6. Ace the Interview and Ask Questions

Interviews aren’t just about answering questions — they’re also your chance to ask them to gain clarification from employers. Be transparent about your work authorization, research company policies in advance, and use the conversation to gauge if the employer is a good fit for you.

7. Stay Motivated and Keep Going

Job searching can be tough, but remember: you are not alone. UMBC has a strong support system, and international students bring unique skills that employers value. Use LinkedIn, Retrievers Connect, and Handshake to track job openings, connect with alumni, and find success stories to inspire you.

More Job Search Tips Ahead!