RAMADAN IFTAR DINNER

Join us for a special evening filled with good food, meaningful conversation, and community!

MARCH 4, 2026 5:30PM - 8:00PM THE SKYLIGHT ROOM

RSVP HERE: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf6nSsfrah3ohltnnMCDcLg7zu6cn5-P6dz0IgGWcZRfhODpw/viewform

This event is open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.

You went to the career fair. You collected business cards. You had a few great conversations. Now what?

Making contacts is only the first step — what really matters is what you do after the introduction. Turning contacts into opportunities requires intention, follow-up, and a willingness to continue the conversation beyond the initial meeting.

Here's how to transform a quick interaction into something meaningful.

1. Follow Up Within 48 Hours

After meeting a recruiter or professional, send a short thank-you email or LinkedIn message. Mention:

• Where you met (e.g., the UMBC Career Fair)
• Something specific you discussed
• The role or opportunity that interests you

This small step helps them remember you — and signals professionalism.

2. Connect the Conversation to Action

If you discussed a specific position, apply soon after following up. In your application or message, reference your conversation. For example:

"I enjoyed speaking with you at the UMBC Career Fair about the XYZ position and have submitted my application."

This reinforces your interest and keeps your name top of mind.

3. Show Continued Interest

Opportunities don't always happen instantly. Stay engaged by attending events like employer info sessions, recruitment events, and workshops. Seeing you show up more than once demonstrates genuine interest and persistence.

4. Ask Smart, Specific Questions

If you attend a recruitment session, ask questions that show you've done your research. Instead of asking, "What do you do?" try:

• "What skills make someone successful in this role?"
• "What does the first year typically look like?"
• "What advice would you give someone preparing to apply?"

Thoughtful questions deepen the connection and leave a stronger impression.

5. Keep Building Momentum

Not every contact will lead to an immediate offer — but every interaction builds your network and strengthens your confidence. Networking is a long game. The more consistently you engage, the more opportunities will surface over time. Having an interconnected network across industries can become one of your greatest career assets. 

Take the Next Step

Ready to turn your connections into real opportunities? Join the IBM Z and Social Security Administration Recruitment Session to meet recruiters, learn about open roles, and continue building relationships that can move your career forward.

A single conversation can change your trajectory — but make sure you follow through.

Happy Monday! Take a look at the events that will take place at The Mosaic Center this week: 

Monday, 2/23/2026 | Chai Chats 11:30 AM  - 12:30 PM (Cancleed, will be rescheduled) 

Wednesday,  2/25/2026 | Donuts & Dialogue 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM 

Thursday, 2/26/2026 | SistaCare (Center for Social Justice Dialogue): 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM 

We hope to see you at our upcoming events and sponsorships! Questions regarding Mosaic programming can be sent to our email: themosaic@umbc.edu. 

The Mosaic Center and all events are open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.