Name: Rahma Ras

Pronouns: She/Her

Semester of Internship: Summer 2025

Major: Data Science

Current Class Level: Master's Student

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

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

Location of the Organization (City, State): Maryland

Title of position: Digital Marketing Co-Ordinator

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

During my internship at Amplify MedTech, I managed digital marketing and community engagement by developing LinkedIn campaigns, creating visual assets, and coordinating newsletters, using audience metrics to refine outreach strategy. I also supported the planning and execution of high-impact events, including NIH SBIR workshops and expert panels, gaining significant hands-on experience in stakeholder engagement and MedTech innovation within a fast-paced startup environment.

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

I first met Dr. Fehmida Kapadia during a UMBC Career Center event, where we had a brief but meaningful conversation about Amplify MedTech's mission and its work with early-stage healthcare startups. A few weeks later, during the summer, Dr. Fehmida reached out to me directly about an internship opportunity with Amplify MedTech. After expressing my interest, we scheduled a follow-up conversation to discuss the role and how my background could align with the organization's needs. The UMBC Career Center was incredibly supportive throughout the process, making everything—from communication to onboarding—smooth and straightforward. Shortly after our conversation, I was offered the position and began working as a summer intern, contributing to digital marketing, event coordination, and strategic outreach efforts.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

UMBC Career Center, Career Fairs, Networking events (UMBC Connects, Info Sessions, Arts With a Purpose, etc.), LinkedIn or other social media

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

What I've enjoyed most about my position at Amplify MedTech is the opportunity to contribute to meaningful work while learning in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. I loved being trusted with real responsibilities—from designing outreach campaigns to supporting educational events for MedTech founders—and seeing how my efforts made a visible impact. Working under Dr. Fehmida Kapadia's mentorship was especially rewarding; her guidance, along with the supportive culture of the organization, helped me grow both professionally and personally. The experience gave me a clearer sense of how innovation, strategy, and community engagement come together in the MedTech space.

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

I believe I made an impact at Amplify MedTech by helping the organization effectively communicate its mission and engage a broader audience of MedTech innovators. Through designing LinkedIn campaigns, creating clear and compelling event graphics, and coordinating email newsletters, I helped increase visibility for events and resources that support early-stage startups. My contributions played a role in streamlining outreach efforts, improving audience engagement, and enhancing the overall professionalism of Amplify MedTech's digital presence. By taking initiative and paying close attention to detail, I was able to support the team's goals and help amplify the impact of their work.

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

My advice to another student seeking an internship is to be proactive, stay curious, and take full advantage of the resources available—especially the UMBC Career Center. They were incredibly helpful in refining my résumé and preparing me for the application and interview process. I also recommend attending career fairs and networking events, even if you're unsure of what you're looking for. Sometimes, a brief conversation or connection can lead to an unexpected and rewarding opportunity. Be open to learning, ask thoughtful questions, and don't shy away from roles that challenge you—some of the most valuable growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone.

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

I loved being part of a mission-driven organization where my work made a real impact. The Career Center played a big role in helping me get there—guiding me through the application process and making sure my résumé stood out.

The Festival of Lights, Diwali, is a five-day celebration that began this year on Saturday, October 18, 2025.

The festival's main night of Lakshmi Puja is on Monday, October 20, 2025, and is a profound spiritual observance symbolizing the universal triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.

Diwali is primarily celebrated by those of the Hindu, Sikh, and Jain faiths, along with some Buddhists, but its message of hope and renewal is shared by communities worldwide. 

During this special time, homes are illuminated with colorful lights and traditional clay lamps, or diyas. The lighting of these lamps, along with celebratory fireworks meant to ward off evil spirits, signifies a spiritual awakening and the coming of prosperity. It is a time for family gatherings, sharing traditional sweets and savory foods, and strengthening bonds with loved ones.

The Five Days of Diwali 

1. Dhanteras (Oct 18)

2. Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali (Oct 19)

3. Lakshmi Puja (The main day: Oct 20)

4. Goverdhan Puja, Balipratipada, or Annakut (Oct 21 or 22, depending on region)

5. Bhai Dooj, Bhai Tika, or Bhai Bij (Oct 22 or 23, depending on region)

From all of us at the Mosaic, we wish you and your loved ones a Diwali that brings warmth, peace, and lasting prosperity. Have a joyful Festival of Lights!

Join us for Good Afternoon Commuters!

Enjoy lunch with other UMBC commuters and get connected with on-campus resources! 

GAC will be hosted on October 21, 2025 from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. It is complimentary with your Commuter Gold Card.

Gold Cards are a one-time per academic year purchase and are available to be purchased at every GMC and GAC with cash only.

Gold Cards at $5 for Commuters

$10 for Residential & Graduate Students

Reposted from UMBC News: Mark Benesch catalyzes UMBC’s partnership with drug maker AstraZeneca

Benesch has regularly brought his enthusiasm and energy to UMBC career fairs, first as a recruiter for ExxonMobil, where he worked immediately after graduating, and later for the Columbia, Maryland-based chemical company W.R. Grace. But it was after starting at AstraZeneca as the senior director of the capital projects portfolio for the Americas region in January 2023 that Benesch spotted the opportunity to take his connections with the university to the next level. 

Mark Benesch and other AstraZeneca recruiters talk with students at the UMBC Career Fair in September. (Photo courtesy of Miriam Friedman)

AstraZeneca employs thousands of people across the state of Maryland, including at a large scientific campus in Gaithersburg, a center in Frederick that manufactures a diverse class of drugs called biologics, and a newly opened facility in Rockville that will manufacture immunotherapy drugs to treat cancer. The company has announced plans to invest $50 billion in America by 2030 for medicines manufacturing and research and development. 

From the hundreds of UMBC alumni at AstraZeneca, Benesch has recruited and inspired a team of eight dedicated to forging stronger links to their alma mater. They, together with partners in AstraZeneca's Early Career Programs, have built a strong alumni-driven network linking UMBC students with opportunities at the company. 

"Mark is always thinking about innovative ways to connect," says Christine Routzahn, the director of the Career Center at UMBC who has worked with Benesch to expand the UMBC-AstraZeneca partnership. "He's very passionate about UMBC and ensuring our students are successful."

Benesch's efforts will be recognized when he receives the 2025 Distinguished Service Alumni Award this October. 

Mark Benesch and some members of the UMBC recruiting team he has brought together. [Above], Benesch, Matthew Schwarz '11, Shakir Muradymov '07, Chioma Ngobili '04, Tania Monterastelli '08, and Sara Rego in front of the AstraZeneca Gaithersburg campus. [Below], the team chats inside. Not pictured are team members Emily Elliott, M.S. '22, Asmaa Hasan '22, Moe Nayel '15, and Babacarr Lemon '23. (Brad Ziegler/UMBC)

A growing partnership 

The work of the AstraZeneca-UMBC recruiting team has gone far beyond career fairs. Under Benesch's stewardship, AstraZeneca played a key role at the UMBC-hosted 2024 Mid-Atlantic Student Conference for the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. The company sponsored the event and Pran Patel, the vice president of global engineering and real estate at AstraZeneca, served as a keynote speaker. Benesch met monthly with student organizers of the conference, helped lead a popular conference workshop, and mobilized other AstraZeneca employees to volunteer.

"From a five-minute conversation at the career fair, Mark took the initiative to follow up and create real collaboration opportunities," says An Dang '24, a student organizer who led the fundraising efforts for the conference.

Benesch and his team have also worked with UMBC to launch new collaborations such as dedicated on-campus information sessions and recruiting events, alumni happy hours, and tours and networking at the AstraZeneca Gaithersburg campus.

"UMBC On the Road" took students on a tour of the AstraZeneca facility under construction in Rockville in fall 2024. (Photo courtesy of Benesch)

The efforts have paid off, as the number of UMBC students applying to summer internships at AstraZeneca has increased by 31 percent in the past year, and the number of students accepting internships has grown from one in summer 2024 to seven in 2025.

On the research side, Benesch attended the College of Engineering and Information Technology's recent Research Day and is facilitating discussions of ways AstraZeneca may partner with UMBC faculty on joint projects. 

"Mark's ongoing dedication to serving his alma mater has been nothing short of extraordinary," says Mariajosé Castellanos, a teaching professor in the Department of Chemical, Biochemical, and Environmental Engineering who first met Benesch in her thermodynamics class in 2006. "As a faculty member who has been in the department for 20 years and served as the AIChE UMBC Chapter advisor for the past nine, I can confidently say that I have never seen this level of consistent engagement and support from any other undergraduate alumnus."

Building community and empowering individuals 

A mixer for UMBC alumni employees and interns at AstraZeneca. (Photo courtesy of Miriam Friedman)

Your network is one of the most powerful tools you have for building your career — and the best time to start using it is now. Networking isn't just about collecting contacts; it's about building meaningful relationships that can open doors, spark collaborations, and help you turn your potential into real opportunities.

Whether you're exploring career paths, preparing for graduation, or hoping to gain experience while in school, connecting with professionals can give you insights and confidence that no online search can match.

1. Explore: Learn from Conversations, Not Just Job Posts

Networking helps you discover career options and industries that might not be on your radar. By talking with alumni, recruiters, or peers at career events, you gain firsthand advice about what it's really like to work in specific fields — and what skills matter most.

2. Connect: Build Relationships That Last

Every handshake, LinkedIn message, or quick chat can plant the seed for future opportunities. Focus on authentic conversations rather than "pitching" yourself. Ask thoughtful questions, listen actively, and follow up after events to keep the connection alive.

3. Advance: Turn Conversations into Career Momentum

The most successful job seekers don't wait for openings to appear — they build relationships that lead to them. Networking gives you insider perspectives, referrals, and mentors who can help you grow into your next professional chapter.

Ready to Turn Potential into Power?

Tonight you'll have an amazing opportunity to build your network and take the next step in your career journey at the Discovery Recruitment Event. Join the Career Center and the UMBC Chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers for an exclusive networking event designed to help you make meaningful connections that can lead to an interview or career advancement.

There are only a few seats left, but still register, as there are usually cancellations and students on the waitlist should be able to attend.

Don't just show up — show who you are, what drives you, and where you're headed. Because when you connect with purpose, you turn your potential into power.

Name: Katelyn Kelly

Pronouns: She/her

Semester of Internship: Fall 2025

Major: Political Science & Media and Communications Studies

Current Class Level: Senior

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

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Baltimore County Council

Location of the Organization (City, State): Catonsville, MD

Title of position: Communications & Campaign Intern

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

During my internship with a Baltimore County Council campaign, I gained hands-on experience in local government and political communications. My day-to-day responsibilities included drafting social media content, creating graphics, and helping to manage the campaign's online presence to engage voters and increase visibility. I assisted with community outreach by coordinating events, distributing flyers, and interacting with constituents to share the candidate's platform and gather feedback. I also conducted research on local issues and voter demographics to help inform campaign strategy. In addition, I regularly attended events alongside the candidate, helping with setup, engaging with community members, and supporting the campaign's efforts to build strong connections with voters. This role allowed me to strengthen my communication, organizational, and teamwork skills while learning how grassroots efforts and digital media shape local elections.

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

I learned about the Baltimore County Council campaign internship through a campus announcement and word of mouth from my department. After researching the candidate and the campaign's goals, I reached out directly to the campaign team to express my interest and learn more about the opportunity. I submitted my application soon after, including my résumé and a brief statement about my experience in communications and political science. Following a short interview to discuss my skills and availability, I was offered the position and began preparing to join the team. The process was straightforward and moved quickly, allowing me to get involved early in the campaign season.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

Faculty Connections

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

What I have enjoyed most about my position is the opportunity to use my voice and discover my own in the process. Working on a local campaign has allowed me to share ideas, create content, and communicate messages that resonate with the community while also learning how to speak confidently about issues that matter to me. Being trusted to draft posts, engage with voters, and represent the campaign at events has helped me develop a stronger sense of my own perspective and how to express it effectively. This experience has not only strengthened my communication skills but also shown me the impact of using my voice to support meaningful change.

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

I believe I have made an impact by helping the campaign connect more effectively with the community and share its message in a clear, engaging way. Through creating social media content, assisting at events, and interacting with voters, I've helped raise awareness of the candidate's platform and encouraged more people to get involved in the local election process. My work in researching local issues and supporting outreach efforts has also contributed to shaping strategies that reflect the needs and concerns of constituents. Even in a behind-the-scenes role, I feel that my efforts have strengthened the campaign's visibility and helped build meaningful relationships with voters.

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

My advice to another student seeking an internship or similar experience is to be proactive and open-minded. Don't be afraid to reach out directly to organizations or campaigns that interest you, even if they haven't posted an official opening—many opportunities come from showing initiative. Highlight the skills you already have, but also express your willingness to learn and take on new challenges. Networking with professors, classmates, and campus organizations can also lead to valuable connections. Most importantly, choose an experience that aligns with your passions, because when you care about the work, you'll gain more confidence, develop your voice, and make the most of every opportunity. 

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

"I loved how this internship gave me the chance to use my voice and build confidence while supporting a local campaign. The Career Center's resources and guidance made it easier to find and pursue an opportunity that matched my interests and goals." 

Enjoy breakfast with other UMBC commuters and get connected with on-campus resources! There isn't a better way to start your day!

GMC will be hosted every Tuesday morning from 8:30am to 11:00am. It is complimentary with your Commuter Gold Card.

Gold Cards are a one-time per academic year purchase and are available to be purchased at every GMC with cash only.

Gold Cards at $5 for Commuters

$10 for Residential & Graduate Students 

Indigenous Peoples' Day: Honoring Community and History

Today, we celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, a time to honor and recognize the rich cultures, contributions, and histories of Indigenous communities across the United States. This day serves as a reminder of the ongoing impact of colonization and the resilience of Indigenous peoples. Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated on the second Monday of October each year. 

Indigenous communities have faced erasure and marginalization, often misrepresented through harmful stereotypes, media, and caricatures. They continue to confront systemic violence and disenfranchisement. Acknowledging their struggles and achievements requires more than a designated day. It is essential to elevate Indigenous voices, support their communities, and engage in practices that promote awareness of their joys and challenges. We must actively challenge injustices against Indigenous peoples.

About Indigenous Peoples' Day
In 2021, President Biden issued the first presidential proclamation of Indigenous Peoples Day. South Dakota was the first state to celebrate "Native American Day" in 1990 as a counter to "Columbus Day." Berkeley, California, was the first city to recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day in 1992, protesting the 500th anniversary of Columbus's arrival.

Despite the observance of Indigenous Peoples Day, many still refer to this day as "Columbus Day," celebrating Christopher Columbus and the self-proclaimed "discovery" of the New World. However, history reveals that Columbus was not the first to discover the Americas, and honoring "Columbus Day" overlooks the brutal treatment and genocide of Indigenous peoples. His voyages led to the near extinction of the Taino people and marked the beginning of widespread colonization in the Caribbean.

Uplifting Voices: We are called to elevate Indigenous voices, actively support their communities, uplift the untold histories, and challenge the injustices they continue to face. By doing so, we commit to promoting awareness of both their joys and challenges.

As we acknowledge the land our university occupies, we pay tribute to those who originally cared for it and confront the historical and ongoing injustices faced by displaced communities. This acknowledgment must serve as a foundation for genuine commitment and action to support Indigenous communities, past, present, and future. Land acknowledgments are just the first step in recognizing Indigenous peoples and their histories. We encourage everyone to honor the Indigenous peoples who came before us, those who are present today, and future generations, celebrating their rich legacies. 

We extend our deepest gratitude to all Indigenous faculty, staff, and students at UMBC.

Join us today as we celebrate and honor Indigenous Peoples Day for our Donuts & Dialogue event in collaboration with the UMBC Indigenous Peoples' Union. Stop by the Mosaic Center from 12-1pm. 

Join IPU on October 16 for their Interest Mixer. Learn more at their myUMBC page here.