Career Exposure
We understand it can be confusing to know which direction you’re headed when you haven’t even been exposed to different fields and industries. Our Center helps students of ALL majors observe varied industries through many programs throughout the semesters. We also have programs to allow you to connect with UMD alumni working in your field(s) of interest.
The University Career Center's popular Intern for a Day program connects UMD students with alumni, parents, and employers for either in-person job shadowing experiences or virtual informational interviews to explore potential career fields. After participating in a mandatory orientation and completing an application, University Career Center staff match you with an employer of interest for either a 1) half-day or full-day job shadowing experience or 2) a one-hour informational interview. This program is held in both the Fall and Spring semesters.
UMD Alumni are terrific sources of career advice for students, and they should serve as initial points of contact for you in exploring careers and industries. Often you will hear the term, “Informational Interviews” wherein you are supposed to find someone willing to have a conversation with you about their careers, and you probably wonder how to find these people who are so willing. UMD Alumni are there for you!
As a student, you can use Terrapins Connect to connect with UMD alumni employed in a variety of fields! This confidential service is free to students. Once you sign-up, you can view over 1,000 alumni profiles and reach out to them for a career conversation (or informational interview) or for feedback on your resume. Additionally, there is a library of videos that can also provide you with insightful information from alumni on career and job search.
Engage in an online module that walks you through how to find professionals to connect with and how to prepare for an informational interview.
Check our events calendar for upcoming employer events.