Real World Experiences Today = Job Offers Tomorrow
Internships, Community Service and Other Opportunities
Freshmen and Sophomores: When should I start looking for internships, service learning or other types of experience?
UMBC: It is never too early to start! In fact, we recommend that you start exploring right away!
You may have heard the word “experiential learning” several times during your initial visits to UMBC, new student orientation, and other presentations. Experiential learning encompasses activities such as internships, shadowing experiences, study abroad, independent research, or service learning. In essence, experiential learning allows you to reflect on your experiences while doing the work that really matters. Learn more about Kolb’s experiential learning theory.
We take pride in our experiential learning opportunities here at UMBC. Below are ways that you can take your experiences to the next level. Gaining experience now can translate into future job opportunities.
UMBC is committed to undergraduate research and our Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarships has opportunities for students in STEM, Social Sciences, Humanities, international students, graduating seniors, and more!
The annual Undergraduate Research and Creative Achievement Day (URCAD) will take place on April 24th! Although the deadline to submit proposals has passed, we encourage you to check out the event for some future ideas!
Studying abroad is one of the best ways to acquire global and intercultural skills. Applications for Summer 2019 programs are currently being accepted. In order to get started, you must first attend a Study Abroad 101 session held by the Office of International Education Services. Sessions are held:
Mondays: 12:00 pm -1:00 pm
Wednesdays: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Thursdays: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
All sessions are in the Administration Building, Rm 301.
If you are living in the Baltimore area and looking for spring/fall opportunities, we encourage you to apply for the Bmore Abroad Scholarship!
Want to become a social change agent? The Shriver Center can connect you with opportunities for service learning and civic engagement. Scholarships for service are also available!
You can stop by the Career Center at any time, but keep an eye out for Career Month in April! The Career Center will host several opportunities to connect with prospective employers who are hiring UMBC students for internships and co-ops. In some cases, you can even earn academic credit!
Shadowing and Volunteer Opportunities
You can learn "on the job" skills and training through shadowing and volunteering as well. Whether you are tutoring middle school students or shadowing clinicians in a health care facility, you are gaining invaluable experience that can prepare you for the real world. If you find a place you would like to explore, we recommend reaching out and asking about these opportunities.
Remember, it is never too early to get a head start on your career! Take the first step today!
Posted: February 25, 2019, 2:37 PM
