hackUMBC is teaming up with STARS to bring you an Intro to React workshop! It's the perfect opportunity to get hands-on experience with one of the most popular front-end libraries out there!

📅 Date: April 8th

🕐 Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

📍 Location: ITE 227

Whether you're a beginner or just need a refresher, come ready to learn and level up your web dev skills. See you there!

Hungry for some treats? Stop by our table at the Commons Breezeway on Tuesday, April 7, from 11:00 Am to 2:00 PM to purchase some pastries and drinks! From cookies and brownies to matcha, we've got something for everyone. Grab a friend or two and enjoy!

See you then!

Welcome to Career Month, designed to help students from first-year to PhDs "Explore what's possible and create what's next." Join us each week for events such as industry-focused mini-fairs with employers/alumni, workshops, and employer site visits.

The transition from student to professional doesn’t happen overnight — it happens through a series of intentional conversations. Whether you are a first-year student exploring possibilities or a senior ready to launch, Career Month is your platform to build momentum.

Connect with Targeted Industries

Generic career fairs can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve curated Industry-Specific Fairs to help you find the right fit. By grouping employers by field, you can spend less time navigating a crowded room and more time having high-quality conversations with recruiters who are specifically looking for your skillset.

Practice Your Professional Pitch

A career event is the ultimate "low-stakes, high-reward" environment to practice how you introduce yourself. You don’t need a perfect set of skills to make an impression; you need a clear interest and a few thoughtful questions. Every conversation you have is a step toward normalizing the networking process and reducing the "fear factor" of the job search.

Discover the "Hidden" Roles

Keep in mind that some of the employers attending these fairs might have openings that aren't widely advertised on external job boards yet. By showing up in person, you position yourself at the front of the line. Remember: Preparation + Connection = Opportunity. These events are where the "hidden job market" can become visible.

Maximize Your UMBC Network

Some of the recruiters behind the tables are UMBC alumni who were once exactly where you are sitting. They aren't just looking for resumes; they are looking for fellow Retrievers to join their teams. This shared connection is a powerful tool — don't be afraid to lead with it and use that to your advantage.

Put This Into Action

Ready to see where your degree can take you? Mark your calendar for our specialized Industry Fairs and start building the connections that count.

• Technology & Engineering | April 1, 2026
• Art & Industry | April 7, 2026
• Humanities & Social Sciences | April 8, 2026
• Sciences | April 15, 2026

One conversation can change your trajectory. Reach for the stars and go!

Be sure to also check out careermonth.umbc.edu and our full list of events to keep you busy all month long. 

You've prepped for behavioral questions, researched the company culture, and polished your resume to perfection. But as the interview date approaches, a new challenge often surfaces: "What do I wear?" For many students, transitioning from a campus wardrobe of hoodies and tees to a professional "business" look feels like stepping into a costume where you're the impostor.

The truth is, professional dress isn't about hiding your personality — it's about projecting competence and respect for the opportunity. When you feel confident in your appearance, that internal shift translates into external momentum for you and your career prospects.

Understand the Professional Spectrum

Not every "business" look is the same. A creative tech startup might lean toward Business Casual (think khakis and a polo or a blouse and slacks), while a law firm or a federal agency might require Business Professional (a full suit and tie or a coordinated blazer and skirt). Before you choose your outfit, research the vibe of the organization. When in doubt, it is always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed at an interview. Once you accept an offer, you can then observe the dress code at your new workplace.

Focus on the "Power of Fit"

You don't need an expensive designer label to look professional. A $20 shirt that fits well will always look better than a $200 suit that is two sizes too large. Thrift stores are also a good option to find something affordable that looks appropriate. Ensure your clothes are clean, pressed, and tailored to your frame. A sharp silhouette signals attention to detail — a trait every recruiter is looking for.

Build a "Starter" Capsule Wardrobe

You don't need a closet full of suits to be successful. Start with a few versatile "anchor" pieces in neutral colors like navy, charcoal, or black. A single well-fitted blazer can be dressed up for a formal interview or paired with nice jeans for a networking mixer. By focusing on quality over quantity, you ensure you're always ready to dress for success when a last-minute opportunity arises.

Let Your Confidence Lead

The goal of business style is to make your outfit "disappear" so your talent and personality can take center stage. If you are constantly adjusting a tie or tugging at a skirt during an interview, you aren't focused on the conversation. It can also be distracting to the interviewer. That's why it's important to choose professional pieces that not only look nice, but also allow you to move comfortably and speak confidently.

See How UMBC Suits You

Don't let the cost of professional clothing stand in the way of your next big break. The UMBC Career Center is here to ensure every Retriever looks the part through our Professional Clothing Closet, taking place on Tuesday, March 31 (10 AM to 2 PM) and Wednesday, April 1 (1 to 6 PM) in the Community Room of the Apartment Community Center. Come browse our selection of pieces and find what you need to launch your career, absolutely free. Remember, clothes are only available while supplies last, so get there early and kick-start your unique business style. 

Want to make the most out of your hackathon experience? 

Join HackUMBC and the Career Center at UMBC for a workshop designed to help you level up your hackathon game! Learn how to build standout projects, collaborate effectively, and showcase your skills to impress recruiters!

📅 Date: March 30th 

🕛 Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM 

📍 Location: ILSB 233

Whether you're a first-time hacker or a seasoned competitor, this is a great opportunity to sharpen your skills and make your work stand out. Don't miss it!

Name: Krishna Chaitanya

Pronouns: He/Him

Semester of Internship: Spring 2026

Major: Geographical Information Systems 

Current Class Level: Masters Student 

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

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Baltimore Green Justice Workers Cooperative 

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

Title of position: GIS Fellow 

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

I am working as a GIS Fellow supporting community organizations in Baltimore. My role is to create GIS StoryMaps that highlight community conditions, environmental issues, and the work these organizations are doing in their neighborhoods. On a daily basis, I collect and organize data such as environmental hazards, vacant properties, community resources, and 311 service requests. I analyze this information and create maps and StoryMaps that clearly show patterns and community needs. I also work closely with the organizations to understand their priorities and present their work and impact through maps that can support community awareness and decision-making.

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

I first heard about the position through Handshake and applied last summer. I joined the organization as an unpaid intern and worked on a few GIS-related projects during that time. After the summer, the organization applied for AGU's Thriving Earth Exchange Cohort and was selected. Following that, I was brought back in October to continue working with the team. Since then, I have been supporting their work by doing spatial analysis, helping with GIS workshops for their staff and stakeholders, and preparing maps and StoryMaps that show community conditions and the impact of their work.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

Handshake 

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

What I have enjoyed most about my position is working with data in a way that supports community organizations and residents. I collect, analyze, and present data on maps for the organization and the communities they serve. I enjoy turning data into maps because it makes information easier to understand and supports planning and decision making. I also appreciate being involved in the full process, from planning the work to analyzing the data, creating the maps, and presenting the results. Another meaningful part of this work is that it relates to environmental and climate justice, and the maps and analysis I produce can be useful for the organization and community residents.

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

My work helps turn community data into clear visuals that people can easily understand. By mapping local conditions and resources, I help the organization and community members see what is happening in their neighborhoods and support efforts to improve environmental and community well-being.

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

Be open to learning and take initiative when opportunities come your way. Even small experiences can help you build skills and lead to bigger opportunities later.

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

"I appreciated the support the Career Center provides to students. Through career fairs, networking events, and opportunities shared on Handshake, it becomes easier to connect with organizations and find internships. Their tips on social media, podcasts, and informative videos are also helpful for learning about career paths and preparing for opportunities."

🌟 Has a professor or staff member gone above and beyond to support your career and job search journey, grad school dreams, or professional goals? Now’s your chance to show them some love!

In the spirit of kindness, take a few minutes to recognize someone as a UMBC Career Connector.

Did they inspire you to pursue a particular path? Write you an amazing letter of recommendation?Review your resume and make it shine? Connect you with alumni or employers? Just make a positive impact in your life?

Say THANK YOU in a meaningful way! Each nominee will receive a small gift, a recognition certificate with your note, and a spotlight on our Instagram and LinkedIn during Career Month in April and throughout the summer.

How to Participate:

• Complete this short recognition survey HERE (you can submit multiple recognitions—one for each awesome person!).

Let’s spread some kindness and celebrate those who’ve made a difference. ❤️

Follow us on Instagram @UMBCcareers and LinkedIn @UMBCCareerCenter to see your nominee featured!

Nominations will be received on a rolling basis until end of April.