Name:Sherin Feno Kumaresan

Pronouns:He/Him

Semester of Internship:Spring 2024 to Present

Major:Engineering Management

Current Class Level:Master's Student

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

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name):Maryland Technology Internship Program

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

Title of position:MTIP Intern

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

During my internship at the Maryland Technology Internship Program, I gained hands-on experience in data analysis, marketing, and database management. Since the role is very dynamic, there is no set day-to-day activity, allowing me to work on a variety of tasks. 

My responsibilities included creating and posting content on LinkedIn to promote internship positions and provide resources for employers. I also designed intern spotlight and employer spotlight graphics using Canva and published them on the MTIP website using WordPress, as well as on LinkedIn. 

On the data side, I assisted in analyzing data and deriving insights using pivot tables and charts. Additionally, I helped analyze data from previous years to create the annual report and a three-year report. I also contributed to creating intern experiences in Handshake.

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

During my first semester, I actively searched for internships and focused on networking with a variety of professionals. Through this process, I connected with someone from the career center, which initially led to an interview for a student assistant position. However, that position was later discontinued. Despite this, the person who interviewed me for the student assistant role referred me for the Maryland Technology Internship Program position. Shortly after, I received an interview call for this role, went through the interview process, and was ultimately offered the position.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

Career Fairs, Networking events

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

What I enjoy most about my position is the dynamism of the role and the wide range of opportunities it offers. The flexibility allows me to work on different tasks, keeping each day engaging and insightful. Additionally, this role provides the chance to attend promotional and networking events, where I can represent the organization and connect with brilliant individuals who are making a significant impact on society.

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

I believe I have made a meaningful impact on the organization through my work. By actively posting and engaging with content on LinkedIn, I have helped increase the organization's reach and visibility. Additionally, I have contributed to the systematization of processes, such as data collection and analysis, making them more efficient. My support in the day-to-day activities of MTIP has also helped streamline operations and enhance overall productivity.

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

My advice to any student seeking an internship or similar experience is to always network and engage with people. You never know—someone you have a conversation with could become your next supervisor or colleague. Building connections and having meaningful discussions can open unexpected doors. Taking the initiative to connect with others can significantly increase your chances of finding valuable opportunities.

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 feels like my second classroom, where I’ve learned so much and met incredible people who are always kind and willing to help. They’ve been very supportive, answering every question—no matter how small.

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!

The Career Center will be closed on Tuesday, May 13, for a staff professional development planning day. We will reopen on Wednesday, May 14, at 8:30 AM.

Thank you for your understanding. We look forward to assisting you when we return.

Best wishes on your exams.

Name: Ramya Sri Tellakula

Pronouns:She/her

Semester of Internship: Fall 2024

Major: Data Science

Current Class Level: Master's Student

This semester I completed a(n)...:Co-op

Company/Organization Name:Novelis

Location of the Organization (City, State): Atlanta, Georgia 

Title of position:Data Scientist 

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

During my internship, I collaborated with teams to tackle business challenges by gathering and preprocessing structured and unstructured data from mobile apps, IoT sensors, and databases using Python and SQL. I developed NLP models with LLMs like BERT and GPT to predict workplace hazards and fine-tuned generative AI models for text analytics. Additionally, I built and deployed ML pipelines on Azure, leveraging vector databases for semantic search. To support decision-making, I designed Power BI dashboards and implemented automated ETL workflows for efficient data handling and model monitoring.

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

I found the internship on the company’s careers page and applied. I had worked with them before as a client while at TCS in India, which helped me understand their work. My experience in AI and machine learning made me a good fit for the role.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

Career Fairs, LinkedIn or other social media

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

I enjoyed developing code for various manufacturing plants, tackling challenges related to data. The work involved solving real-world problems using machine learning while working closely with data science and engineering experts. The team was supportive, and the environment fostered innovation, allowing me to experiment with new ideas and improve my skills in handling complex data from manufacturing operations.

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

I believe my work has made an impact by improving decision-making in manufacturing. I developed code and used machine learning to solve data challenges, making processes more efficient. Working with experts allowed me to create solutions that helped optimize operations and improve productivity. This experience has sharpened my technical skills and showed me how technology can solve real-world problems in manufacturing.

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

I’d advise focusing on hands-on experience, even through small projects. Build strong technical skills, network with professionals, and seek mentorship. Be proactive, stay curious, and take on challenges. Lastly, showcase your work to potential employers.

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 enjoyed most about my position was solving real-world problems using new technologies. The Career Center was a big help by guiding me with my resume, preparing for interviews, and giving me the confidence I needed to land the role.

Name: Shraddha Kumar
Pronouns: She/her
Semester of Internship: Spring 2024
Major: Engineering Management
Current Class Level: Master's Student
This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship
Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Amplify MedTech
Location of the Organization (City, State): Columbia, MD
Title of position: Marketing Intern

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
During my internship at Amplify MedTech, I have been actively involved in various aspects of marketing and market research, contributing significantly to the company's growth and visibility in the MedTech sector. My primary responsibilities include creating and implementing strategic digital marketing initiatives aimed at enhancing brand awareness and fostering community engagement. On a daily basis, I manage and optimize our social media presence by curating impactful content designed to expand audience reach and strengthen our digital presence. Additionally, I produce essential marketing research insights that inform strategic decision-making, facilitating both audience expansion and improved market positioning. This experience has allowed me to develop valuable skills in research analytics, digital content strategy, and professional communication, all of which align closely with my career goals and academic background.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?:
I first discovered the internship opportunity with Amplify MedTech through Handshake, UMBC's career and internship platform. After submitting my application, I went through the selection process and was subsequently connected with Amplify MedTech through the UMBC Career Center's Shattuck Family Internship Program for Entrepreneurship. The Career Center provided exceptional support during the onboarding phase, ensuring a seamless transition into my role. Their guidance and resources made the onboarding process smooth and effective, enabling me to quickly integrate into the team and actively contribute to Amplify MedTech's initiatives.

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 role at Amplify MedTech is the opportunity to directly contribute to meaningful projects that impact the MedTech community. I've particularly valued engaging in creative marketing initiatives and insightful market research, supported by a team that encourages innovation. The collaborative environment at Amplify MedTech has continuously inspired me to learn, explore new ideas, and enhance my professional skills.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?:
Through my internship at Amplify MedTech, I've made a tangible impact by supporting the company's participation in the Maryland Tech Council's Tech Transformation Conference 2025. My contributions helped effectively showcase our vision, and mission to industry leaders and potential partners, elevating our visibility within the tech community. Additionally, my market research insights and strategic marketing efforts have strengthened Amplify MedTech’s presence, driving audience engagement and contributing directly to the organization's growth.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?:
My advice to students seeking internships is to proactively engage with resources like Handshake, attend career fairs, and take the support provided by UMBC’s Career Center. Tailor your application to highlight skills relevant to the position and organization, and don't hesitate to network with industry professionals.

Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center:
My internship at Amplify MedTech has been truly fulfilling, allowing me to actively contribute to exciting projects and directly support the growth of an innovative organization, and simultaneously collaborate closely with industry leaders in the MedTech space. UMBC’s Career Center was pivotal in helping me secure this role through Handshake, offering guidance that ensured a smooth onboarding experience.

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!

Name: Hiya Patel

Pronouns: She/Her

Semester of Internship: Spring 2024

Major: Double Major in Information Systems and Financial Economics with An Accounting Certificate

Current Class Level: Senior

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

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)

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

Title of position: External Audit Intern

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:
As an External Audit Intern at PwC, I assist with audit procedures such as reviewing financial statements, testing account balances, and evaluating internal controls. I attend team meetings to discuss progress, collaborate with clients to gather information, and help prepare workpapers. This role provides hands-on experience in auditing, enhancing my technical skills and client interaction.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?:
I learned about the PwC External Audit Internship in summer 2024 when the application opened for the winter/spring 2026 session. I applied as soon as the application became available, submitting my resume and cover letter. After that, I waited for an interview to showcase my skills and interest in the position.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?:
PwC website

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?:
I’ve enjoyed most about my position as an audit intern at PwC is the opportunity to collaborate and communicate effectively with my team and clients. I’ve appreciated the supportive environment, where everyone is willing to help and guide me. Building connections with colleagues and learning from their experiences has been a valuable part of my internship.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?:
I believe I’ve made an impact through my work by contributing to the efficiency and accuracy of the audit process. By carefully assisting with audit procedures, reviewing financial statements, and collaborating with my team, I’ve helped ensure that clients receive thorough and reliable audit results. My attention to detail and proactive approach have allowed me to support the team effectively, allowing for smoother client interactions and timely project completion.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?:
My advice to student seeking an internship or similar experience is to focus on making connections rather than thinking you need to know everything. Attend career fairs, network on LinkedIn, and build relationships with professionals in your field. It’s not just about having the knowledge, but also about demonstrating your ability to connect, learn from others, and show your enthusiasm for the role. Building a network can open doors and provide opportunities that go beyond just your technical skills.

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 help me prepare for the application process, offering valuable resources, and providing the confidence to pursue this opportunity. Additionally, they supported me in adjusting to the challenge of balancing a full internship while taking six classes, helping me manage my time effectively and stay on track with both my academic and professional goals.

Come join us for our Certification Event!

We will be discussing how to get certifications at a lower cost, which certifications are the most beneficial, and other helpful information.

Date: April 29th
Time: 12:00–1:00 PM
Location: ILSB Room 233

Hope to see you there!

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!