The job market moves fast — and waiting until you "feel ready" can mean missing out on opportunities. Staying ahead of the curve isn't about doing everything at once; it's about being intentional, prepared, and proactive long before deadlines and job postings pile up.

Whether you're just starting your search or actively applying, a forward-thinking approach can give you a major advantage.

Start Earlier Than You Think You Should

Many employers recruit months in advance, especially for competitive internships and entry-level roles. Use the academic calendar to your advantage by starting your search early and tracking timelines so you're not scrambling later.

Build Skills While You Search

Waiting to hear back from employers doesn't mean waiting on growth. Use online courses, certifications, micro-internships, and personal projects to strengthen your technical and professional skills. Employers value candidates who continue learning — even between opportunities.

Be Strategic with Networking

The strongest opportunities often come through connections, not cold applications. Start building relationships early with peers, alumni, faculty, and employers. Use platforms like Retrievers Connect to find mentors in your field. Ask questions, stay curious, and follow up — networking is about conversation, not perfection.

Refresh Your Materials Regularly

Your resume, LinkedIn profile, and portfolio should evolve as you do. Revisit them each semester to add new skills, more relevant projects, or key accomplishments. Small updates now can save time and stress later — just be sure you're tracking outcomes data tied to your work to showcase on your materials.

Use Data to Guide Your Search

Pay attention to trends in your industry — job titles, skills in demand, and emerging roles. In Steppingblocks, select the Search360° tool from the Tools menu on the left to access data and insights related to specific careers or majors. Let that information guide what you learn, apply for, and pursue next. A targeted search is always more effective than a scattered one. Be intentional with your exploration. 

Keep Momentum, Even When It's Hard

Job searching can feel unpredictable and out of your control. Set weekly goals, celebrate small wins, and remember that progress isn't always immediate. Staying consistent is often what separates those who succeed from those who stall.

What's Next?

If you want support staying proactive and prepared, consider setting up an appointment with a Career advisor on Handshake to get a jump start on your next steps. 

Attention all UMBC student employees!  

What could be better than having an on-campus job?

Having an on-campus job and getting a notation on your transcript that tells employers you made the effort to enhance your professional development!

Interested in gaining a competitive edge in the job market? Sign up for PRAC 102- Building Skills for Career Success this Spring semester. Don’t worry, it’s not a formal class! With the minimal commitment of attending a few workshops and career events, you will be better prepared for the world of work and have the proof on your college transcript to show your employer.

DEADLINE TO REQUEST ENROLLMENT: Friday, February 27, 2026

Make your campus experience count! Enroll TODAY! Enrollment is limited to the first 40 student employees. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by!  

Open to all levels and majors. You must be a UMBC student employee working at least eight hours per week on campus. 

How to Register Online

1. Log in to Handshake, then navigate to Career Center > Experiences.

2. Click “Submit an Experience” and select “Career Center – On-Campus Student Employment (PRAC 102- Building Skills for Career Success)” as the Experience Type. Fill in the required fields and submit.

3. Your registration will be reviewed within two business days. The Career Center will enroll you directly upon review along with sending you additional details.

QUESTIONS, please get in touch with Stephanie Taylor Okoukoni (staylor18@umbc.edu) 

Name: Aditya Kulkarni

Pronouns: He/Him

Semester of Internship: Summer 2025

Major: Computer Science 

Current Class Level: Master's Student 

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

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Brillio LLC

Location of the Organization (City, State): Remote

Title of position: AI Engineer Intern

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

During my internship as an AI Engineer at Brillio, I was part of a team working on building an automated customer care system leveraging Generative AI. My day-to-day responsibilities involved integrating Figma with a React-based application to streamline how customer interactions were captured and processed. I developed workflows that automatically extracted file IDs and node IDs from FigJam URLs, enabling seamless retrieval and processing of customer journey maps. I also worked on setting up automated surveys within FigJam, which generated structured user stories that will later serve as training data for AI models powering the customer care platform. Additionally, I explored the potential of AWS Bedrock and its foundation models for future deployment, documenting how they could enhance scalability and efficiency for the project. Beyond the technical aspects, I collaborated with the design and development teams, managed local plugins, and gained experience in using tools like Figma for product integration. This role allowed me to build a strong foundation in AI-driven application development while contributing to a project with meaningful real-world applications in the healthcare domain.

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

I obtained my internship at Brillio through proactive networking and outreach on LinkedIn rather than a traditional job portal. I came across the opportunity while exploring AI-related roles and decided to directly connect with professionals at Brillio to learn more about the company's work in Generative AI. Through these conversations, I was able to understand how my background in process engineering and programming could align with their projects. After establishing those connections, I was encouraged to apply and submitted my application in early May 2025. This was followed by an interview process where I discussed my technical skills, problem-solving ability, and interest in AI-driven automation. Shortly after, I received an offer and officially started my internship in July 2025.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

LinkedIn or other social media

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

What I enjoyed the most about my internship at Brillio was the opportunity to work on a project that had both real-world relevance and future scalability. I particularly valued the collaborative environment, where I was able to interact closely with cross-functional teams including designers, developers, and AI specialists. This not only exposed me to diverse perspectives but also helped me understand how different pieces of a project come together to build an end-to-end solution. I found it rewarding to see my contributions—such as integrating Figma with the React application and setting up automated workflows—directly add value to the larger project vision of creating an AI-driven customer care platform. Additionally, the organization fostered a culture of continuous learning, where I had the flexibility to explore emerging tools like AWS Bedrock and gain exposure to cutting-edge AI applications. Overall, the combination of technical growth, teamwork, and the chance to contribute to a meaningful innovation made the experience both enjoyable and enriching.

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

I made an impact through my work at Brillio by helping lay the foundation for an AI-driven customer care platform that can eventually transform how organizations interact with their clients. By linking Figma with the React application and creating workflows to capture and process user journey maps automatically, I streamlined a process that would have otherwise required manual intervention. Setting up automated surveys within FigJam that generated structured user stories also provided the project team with a scalable method of building training data for future AI models. These contributions not only saved time for the design and development teams but also ensured that the project moved one step closer to achieving its long-term vision of an entirely automated customer center. Beyond the technical work, I contributed to documentation and knowledge-sharing, which will help the team continue building upon the systems I helped integrate. While my internship was short, the tools and processes I implemented will have lasting value for the project.

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 would be to focus on proactive networking and showcasing genuine curiosity about the work being done at an organization. Many opportunities don't come solely through job portals but through reaching out directly to professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, starting conversations, and demonstrating how your skills align with their projects. It's also important to tailor your application materials to highlight both your technical expertise and your ability to work collaboratively, since employers value problem-solving and communication as much as hard skills. During the internship, stay open to learning beyond your immediate tasks—sometimes exploring a new tool or contributing to documentation can make a lasting impact. Finally, don't hesitate to ask questions and seek feedback; showing initiative and a willingness to learn often leaves a stronger impression than having all the answers.

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

I really enjoyed the collaborative environment at Brillio, where I could see my work directly contributing to an impactful AI-driven project. The Career Center's guidance on refining my application materials and networking strategies gave me the confidence to reach out on LinkedIn and ultimately secure this opportunity.

Name: Harshal Chauhan

Pronouns: He/Him

Semester of Internship: Fall 2025

Major: Information Systems (Health Informatics)

Current Class Level: Doctoral Student

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

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Maryland Department of Health (MDH) – Public Health Workforce Internship Program Money Follows the Person (MFP) Demonstration Team

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

Title of position: Public Health Intern (Quality Measure Set (QMS) Survey and Data Research Intern)

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

As a Quality Measure Set (QMS) Survey and Data Research Intern with the Maryland Department of Health, I support statewide quality improvement initiatives focused on Medicaid beneficiaries receiving Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). My day-to-day responsibilities include administering and analyzing the Experience of Care Survey for participants enrolled in programs such as Community First Choice, Brain Injury Waiver, and Community Personal Assistance Services. I conduct participant outreach, track survey responses, and ensure compliance with federal and state guidelines. Additionally, I assist with data analysis to identify trends and performance gaps, contribute to the development of quality metrics, and help prepare summary reports and recommendations used for internal planning and policy decision-making. This role allows me to work at the intersection of data analytics, public health research, and health policy implementation.

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

I first learned about the Maryland Department of Health during a UMBC career fair in 2023, where I spoke with a representative and was introduced to the Public Health Workforce Internship Program. I applied for the internship in January 2025. In August 2025, I received two follow-up calls for 2 internships from MDH to confirm my interest and availability, followed by a second-round virtual interview with my direct supervisors. I received my formal acceptance later that same month. The process reinforced the importance of persistence and staying engaged, even when opportunities take time to materialize.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

UMBC Career Center, Career Fairs

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

What I have enjoyed most about this position is the flexibility and genuinely supportive work environment. My team has been welcoming, understanding, and deeply committed to mentorship and learning. I have been encouraged to ask questions, contribute ideas, and grow both technically and professionally. The organization values collaboration and provides meaningful exposure to real-world public health challenges, making this an exceptional learning experience. 

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

I believe I have made a meaningful impact through my work. By supporting survey administration, response tracking, and data analysis, I have contributed to improving the accuracy and usability of quality measurement efforts within Maryland Medicaid's HCBS programs. The tracking tools and analytical support I provided helped ensure timely follow-up, better data integrity, and actionable insights that can inform quality improvement and policy decisions affecting vulnerable populations.

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

My advice to other students is to remain persistent and patient. Continue applying and believing in your goals, even if responses take longer than expected. I initially applied for this role for Spring 2025 and did not hear back until Fall, but staying consistent paid off. Networking, following up, and trusting the process are just as important as submitting applications.

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

Favorite Quote: "You worry about the results, but have you ever paused to ask—what if?" What I valued most about my internship was the supportive and flexible environment that allowed me to apply my academic training to real public health impact. The UMBC Career Center played a vital role by connecting me to this opportunity and supporting me early on with resume formatting and career guidance.

Name: Manogna Rayasam

Pronouns: She/Her

Semester of Internship: Fall 2025

Major: Data Science

Current Class Level: Masters Student

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

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): UMBC Career Center

Location of the Organization (City, State): Baltimore County

Title of position: Data Visualization & Reporting Analyst

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

In my internship as a Data Visualization & Reporting Analyst with UMBC's Career Center, I work closely with student data to support decision-making and improve the visibility of student career outcomes. My day-to-day responsibilities include analyzing career outcomes data, preparing accurate metrics for the center's outreach materials, and assisting in the migration of reporting processes. I also build interactive Tableau dashboards that help staff easily understand trends, employer engagement through Handshake, and overall student success after graduation. Through this role, I've been able to combine data analysis with visualization to create tools that make a meaningful impact across campus.

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

I learned about this position through Handshake and quickly submitted my application because the role aligned well with my interests in data analysis and visualization. In addition to applying online, I reached out to Christine Routzahn with a cold email to express my enthusiasm for the position and to learn more about the opportunity. Shortly after, I was invited for an interview. The interview went well, and I was selected for the role, giving me the opportunity to join the team this semester.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

UMBC Career Center, Handshake

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

What I've enjoyed most about my position is the strong guidance and mentorship I receive, especially from Christine Routzahn. Her clear expectations and weekly task planning help me stay organized and confident in my work. I also appreciate the flexibility within the role, which allows me to approach tasks in an innovative and unique way while still having support whenever needed. This combination of structure, clarity, and creative freedom has made the experience both meaningful and motivating.

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

I believe I've made a meaningful impact through my work by transforming complex career outcomes data into clear, accessible insights that support decision-making across campus. The Tableau dashboards I created help staff quickly understand trends, employer engagement, and student success, enabling them to better communicate UMBC's career outcomes. I've also contributed to improving reporting processes and ensuring accurate data for flyers and outreach materials. By combining analysis with effective visualization, I've helped the Career Center present information in a way that is both actionable and easy to interpret.

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 and intentional throughout the process. Most importantly, stay confident and open to feedback. Opportunities often come to those who take initiative, show curiosity, and aren't afraid to put themselves out there.

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

The Career Center guided me at every step, helping me grow both technically and professionally.

HackUMBC is giving away a record player to 2 lucky winners! Follow the rules below and check out our Instagram @hackumbc so you can register. Only those who register on Instagram will be entered into the giveaway! We will announce the winners via Instagram on January 23rd. The giveaway will last 2 weeks and it's open to UMBC students!

What You Need to Know:

1. Duration: 2 weeks

2. Eligibility: UMBC students, 16 years or older

3. Prize: A record player

4. How to enter: Like the post, comment your favorite coding language, and follow the account

Name: Umme Kulsum

Pronouns: She/Her

Semester of Internship: Fall 2025

Major: Information Systems

Current Class Level: Master's Student

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

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): UP Robotics

Location of the Organization (City, State): Bethesda, Maryland

Title of position: AI & Interactive Learning Intern

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

 During my internship as an AI & Interactive Learning Intern with UP Robotics, I had the opportunity to work on developing innovative, AI-powered educational experiences. My main project for the semester focused on creating an immersive Space Explorer Chatbot, designed to introduce middle- and high-school students to Python, AI concepts, and problem-solving through a fun, space-themed storyline. My day-to-day responsibilities included designing interactive lesson components, writing Python logic for chatbot behaviors, testing user flows, and refining activities to be both educational and engaging. I collaborated regularly with my mentor to review design ideas, improve the learning experience, and ensure the activities aligned with curriculum goals. This experience strengthened my skills in AI-driven design, interactive learning development, and translating technical concepts into accessible, meaningful educational content.

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

I first learned about the internship opportunity through Handshake, where UP Robotics had posted the opening for an AI & Interactive Learning Intern. The position immediately stood out to me because it aligned closely with my interest in the intersection of AI, education, and user-centered design. After submitting my application through Handshake, I was contacted for an interview and later selected for the role. The process was smooth, and I appreciated how clearly the position matched my career goals. This opportunity allowed me to gain hands-on experience in a field I am passionate about and reinforced my desire to continue working on impactful, engaging AI learning experiences.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

Handshake

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

What I enjoyed most about my position at UP Robotics was the opportunity to blend creativity with technology. I loved being able to design interactive learning experiences that made AI and programming approachable for younger students. The organization encouraged innovation, collaboration, and experimentation, which made the work environment truly inspiring. I also appreciated the mentorship I received having guidance while still being trusted with meaningful responsibilities made the experience both supportive and empowering.

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

I believe I made an impact by helping students feel excited not intimidated about learning technology. Working on the Space Explorer Chatbot allowed me to take something as complex as AI and transform it into an experience that feels playful, welcoming, and achievable for beginners. It felt meaningful to know that something I built could be a student's first positive interaction with coding or AI. I also contributed new ideas and creative elements that UP Robotics incorporated into their lessons, which helped strengthen their educational programs. Knowing that my work might inspire curiosity or confidence in even one student makes the experience truly rewarding for me.

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

My advice is to apply early, stay open to learning, and don't be afraid to pursue opportunities slightly outside your comfort zone. Look for positions that align with your strengths and the areas you want to grow in. Use resources like Handshake and the UMBC Career Center, attend career fairs, and tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills. Most importantly, be proactive, reach out to mentors, ask questions during interviews, and choose environments that support your learning and creativity.

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

What I liked most was designing AI experiences that truly engage students, and I'm grateful to the Career Center for connecting me with this opportunity.

You made the connection at an event — now what? Following up after a networking conversation can feel uncomfortable, especially if you're worried about saying the wrong thing or coming across as pushy. The truth is, thoughtful follow-up is not awkward — it's professional. It's also one of the most effective ways to turn a short interaction into a lasting relationship.

Why Follow-Up Matters

Networking doesn't end when the event does. A follow-up message shows appreciation, reinforces your interest, and helps people remember who you are. Most professionals these days expect a follow-up — and many are happy to continue the conversation if you take the initiative.

Keep It Simple and Timely

You don't need a long or perfectly worded message. Aim to follow up within 24–48 hours with a brief note that:

• Thanks them for their time
• Mentions something specific from your conversation
• Expresses interest in staying connected
• Shares information or resources

A few thoughtful sentences can go much further than silence.

Focus on Connection, Not Asking for a Job

The goal of a follow-up isn't to ask for a job — it's to build rapport. Instead of jumping straight to requests, focus on continuing the relationship. Over time, strong connections naturally lead to opportunities, referrals, and advice, which is crucial given that you're now 20x more likely to get a job from a referral than a cold application.

Use Retrievers Connect to Follow Up with Confidence

Not sure how to reach out? Retrievers Connect makes following up easier and less intimidating. The platform is designed specifically for UMBC students and alumni, creating a supportive space for career conversations, informational interviews, and mentorship.

Because everyone on Retrievers Connect is there to connect, you can reach out knowing the expectation is conversation — not perfection. And if you're hoping to take things a step further and participate in a Retrievers Connect-powered mentorship program, graduate students can check out the Graduate Student Mentoring Network, or the GSMN.

Consistency Builds Confidence

The more you practice following up, the easier it becomes. Each message builds confidence, strengthens your professional presence, and helps you develop a networking style that feels authentic to you. It also tends to sting less when you don't hear back right away. Just go down your list and reach out to the next person. It can start to feel that easy.

Ready to Build Connections That Last?

Start turning conversations into career momentum by using Retrievers Connect to follow up, stay connected, and grow your professional network — without all the awkwardness. Good luck – you got this!

BEYA STEM Career Fair and Conference (Both In-Person or Virtual) 

The 2026 BEYA STEM Career Fair and Conference, hosted by Career Communications Group, Inc., is taking place February 12- 14 at the Baltimore Convention Center with options to participate either in-person or online. The conference features a free career fair (Friday, February 13 and Saturday, February 14) where top national and local companies in the STEM fields are actively recruiting STEM interns and professionals in addition to career workshops, and leadership and professional development programs. 

Open to ALL Students (undergraduate and graduate)

Registration is required. The UMBC Career Center will provide a free shuttle bus to the Career Fair on Friday. If you would like to the free shuttle bus, you must register with both BEYA and the UMBC Career Center by Tuesday, February 10th. 

UMBC students are now able to register for the entire conference for free. Use this promotional code PCIMMWC and follow the REGISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS. 

 Contact Diane Crump-Fogle (crump@umbc.edu) or Chrisi Giannakaris (chrisig@umbc.edu) at the UMBC Career Center for additional information.