This week’s episode is a must-listen if you are feeling overwhelmed by your academics or the job search. We sat down with Dr. Rowena Winkler for an honest, vulnerable conversation about her academic and career journey, the mental health challenges she faced along the way, and the tools that helped her persevere. Are you burning out trying to land the “perfect” job? Struggling with self-doubt or feeling like your best is never enough? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to go through it alone either.

Dr. Rowena shares powerful insights on the emotional toll of academics and the job search, especially for high-achievers, and how embracing vulnerability can actually help you move forward. You’ll learn how to create your personal “care team”—including friends, mentors, therapists, and coaches—and how to tap into resources like UMBC’s Retriever Integrated Health to support your mental well-being.This episode is for anyone whose academic schedule feels overwhelming—or who has ever felt stuck, stressed, or silently spiraling while trying to figure out what’s next.

🔗 Resources: Retrievers Integrated Health (RIH) online tools

Didn’t land the internship? Feeling stuck or unsure of what to do next? You’re not alone.

In this episode, we’re talking directly to students who are early in their academic journey, facing hiring freezes, or just haven’t been able to secure the internship they hoped for. Maybe you’ve applied to a bunch of roles with no response—or maybe opportunities in your field seem limited right now.

Don’t stress. There are ways to keep growing, building skills, and boosting your resume—even when traditional internships aren’t available. This episode is packed with practical, flexible options to help you keep moving forward and become a stronger candidate for the future.

What You’ll Learn:

• Ways to gain experience outside of internships

• On-campus programs and short-term projects you can join now

• Free and low-cost tools to boost your skills and confidence

• How to turn small opportunities into standout resume wins

Resources & Tools Mentioned in the Episode:

1. Micro-internships

Parker Dewey: https://info.parkerdewey.com/umbc

Retrievers Connect: https://retrieversconnect.umbc.edu/v2/

UMBC Woolies: https://welcomeretrievers.umbc.edu/woolies/

URA/ Undergrad Research Website: https://ur.umbc.edu/ura/

Handshake: https://careers.umbc.edu/handshake/

Google Career Certificates, Coursera: https://googlecerts.umbc.edu/enroll/

LinkedInLearning: https://learning.linkedin.com/

4. Leadership and Projects @ UMBC

In addition to in-class experiences: 

UMBC CoLab: https://iaac.umbc.edu/co-lab/

Maryland Public Service Scholars Programs: https://publicservicescholars.umbc.edu/

Student Organizations: https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/studentorgs

Maryland Early Childhood Leadership Program: https://meclp.umbc.edu/

Institute for Extended Learning, Professional Development Courses: https://ixlcourses.umbc.edu/umbc/course/course.aspx?catId=11

UpWork: https://www.upwork.com/

Fiverr: https://www.fiverr.com/?source=top_nav

Medium: https://medium.com/

Contently: https://contently.com/register

Kaggle:https://www.kaggle.com/

Freelancer: https://www.freelancer.com/

UMBC Career Center

Inbox: [email protected]

Instagram link: https://www.instagram.com/umbccareers

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@UMBCcareers

Webpage: careers.umbc.edu

Personal Statement guide link: https://careers.umbc.edu/students/documents/personal-statement/

Career Guide Link: https://careers2.umbc.edu/tools/guide.pdf

LinkedIn Alumni Group:  https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-maryland-baltimore-county/people/

LinkedIn Search Strategy Guide and Template: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1k1b0nTTmGTdoTT9OYuO-BZiZ4DBIIvF6wxAkla-Eo7g/edit?usp=sharing

Common/ Challenging Interview Questions: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ckm1iB7jFecSia-0F0UJ6rlZ5LV9DeA0HAhk9P4Cuxg/edit?usp=sharing

Link to Big Interview: https://careers.umbc.edu/tools/big-interview

Retrievers Connect: https://retrieversconnect.umbc.edu/

https://careers.umbc.edu/students/find/

Handshake Appointments: https://careers.umbc.edu/aboutus

Ever dreamed of studying or interning abroad but weren’t sure how to make it work with your schedule—or your wallet? In this episode, we dive into the transformative experiences of students who’ve studied in South Africa, Finland, and Japan. Join us in an inspiring discussion on how they made it work with their class schedules, got funding, and even earned money while overseas. We’ll bust the myth that you have to speak another language, share tips on finding the right program for you, and talk about how taking advantage of winter and summer breaks can open doors to unforgettable global experiences. Whether you're passport-ready or just starting to explore the idea, this episode is your guide to going global. @umbc   @umbcDPS  #podcast #careerready #studyabroad ResourcesOffice of Education Abroad: https://studyabroad.umbc.eduStudy Abroad 101: https://studyabroad.umbc.edu/study-abroad-101/ Sondheim Public Affairs Program: https://sondheim.umbc.edu/Global Communities and Social Change course: https://goabroad.umbc.edu/_portal/tds-program-brochure?programid=40797ISEP Exchange : https://studyabroad.umbc.edu/isep-exchange/MLL 430 Internship Course: https://catalog.umbc.edu/preview_course_nopop.php?catoid=36&coid=109633Global (Abroad) Ambassador: https://isss.umbc.edu/global-ambassadors/#:~:text=UMBC's%20Global%20Ambassador%20Program%20brings,and%20undergraduate%2C%20current%20and%20future.Abroad Scholarships: https://studyabroad.umbc.edu/scholarships/Japanese Internships Abroad: https://mlli.umbc.edu/japanese-study-abroad/Thanks for listening to UMBC Careers Unleashed. If you have other questions about the job search or figuring out your career path, please comment, like, and subscribe. We are taking questions throughout the year and will be answering them here every other week. This podcast is sponsored by UMBC Career Center, Recording and Production by Judson Asomani, Directed by Marykate Conroy, Music and Intro by Isaiah Dunn, Hosted by Stephanie Taylor Okoukoni with co host and collaborator, Isaiah Dunn, Graphics by Dustin Eby, Sam Nguyen, and Tolulupe Ajabade.

🎙️ Inside Internships dives into real UMBC student stories—how Kayla and Anil navigated their internships in unexpected ways and turned them into game-changing career experiences. From graphic design at a top research lab to operations and political science at a major financial firm, they share how you can apply your major in creative and unconventional ways.

💡 Get inspired by real-world advice on landing internships, using transferable skills like communication, problem-solving, leadership, and Excel, and making the most of every opportunity—even if it’s not your dream job (yet).

Whether you're in STEM, social sciences, arts, or humanities, this episode offers practical tips for: ✔️ Finding internships without a 4.0 GPA ✔️ Building a powerful skill set (teamwork, adaptability, data analysis, and more) ✔️ Rethinking what your career path could look like

🔗 Plus, check out our article on unconventional internships for even more inspo.

Perfect for college students, transfer students, and early-career explorers looking to unlock the full value of their degree.

Continue the conversation with Kayla and Anil in Episode 5: Non-linear internships! https://youtu.be/RguJTgEijm0

@umbc @UMBCCareers

Thanks for listening to UMBC Careers Unleashed. If you have other questions about the job search or figuring out your career path, please comment, like, and subscribe. We are taking questions throughout the year and will be answering them here every other week. This podcast is sponsored by UMBC Career Center, Recording and Production by Judson Asomani, Directed by Marykate Conroy, Music and Intro by Isaiah Dunn, Hosted by Stephanie Taylor Okoukoni with co host and collaborator, Isaiah Dunn, Graphics by Dustin Eby, Sam Nguyen, and Tolulupe Ajabade.

Ever wonder why everyone keeps telling you to “get experience”—but no one tells you what that really means? In this episode, we’re diving into the world of experiential learning—what it is, why it matters, and how it can totally transform your education, your resume, and your confidence.

We bring you real stories, relatable examples, and plenty of laughs as we explore the power of learning through doing. Yes, internships are great—but they’re just the tip of the experiential learning iceberg.

Tune in for an energetic, down-to-earth conversation about some of the many ways to gain experience:

• Research opportunities

• Volunteering

• Student leadership roles

• Part-time jobs

• Service-learning projects

• Job shadowing

• Creative projects and portfolios

• Campus clubs and orgs

• Practicum courses and co-ops

• Freelance work or side gigs

• Hackathons and case competitions

Whether you’re just getting started or looking for your next opportunity, this episode will help you find a path that meets you where you are—and gets you where you want to go.

💡 Expect insights, inspiration, and a reminder that you don’t have to wait until you graduate to start building your future.

Resources:

Inbox: [email protected]

Instagram link: https://www.instagram.com/umbccareers

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UMBCcareers

Webpage: careers.umbc.edu

Shriver Center: https://shrivercenter.umbc.edu/

Mock Trials: https://politicalscience.umbc.edu/student-organizations/umbc-mock-trial/

CoLab: https://summer.umbc.edu/summer-at-umbc/beyond-the-classroom/colab/

PRAC Course to Support Experiential Learning: https://careers.umbc.edu/students/find/internship/earn-academic-credit/

Thanks for listening to UMBC Careers Unleashed. If you have other questions about the job search or figuring out your career path, please comment, like, and subscribe. We are taking questions throughout the year and will be answering them here every other week. This podcast is sponsored by UMBC Career Center, Recording and Production by Judson Asomani, Directed by Marykate Conroy, Music and Intro by Isaiah Dunn, Hosted by Stephanie Taylor Okoukoni with co host and collaborator, Isaiah Dunn, Graphics by Dustin Eby, Sam Nguyen, and Tolulupe Ajabade.

Hey Retrievers! 🐾 Did you know that Career & Self-Development is one of the top skills employers want? (Check out the full list in the report below!) But between classes, work, and life, finding time for career prep can feel impossible.

No time? No problem. The UMBC Career Center makes career growth accessible on your schedule, whether virtually or in-person (and is a big reason for starting this podcast!) In this episode, we’re bringing Career Center Appointments to you—appointments are your personalized way to get career guidance, job search support, and networking strategies without disrupting your busy life.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

🔎 How to maximize Career Center resources—on your time

📆 The different types of career appointments and how they help- what you can do to get started on your own today

💼 Job search, networking, and interview tips straight from career coaches

📈 How to start building your Career & Self-Development skills today

Buckle up—this episode is packed with insider advice, expert tips, and practical tools to get you moving. Save this episode so you can revisit these insights throughout your job search journey!

🔗 All career tools & resources linked below! 💼✨

Top Competencies for Career Readiness

Resources to Get Started:

📩 Contact us: [email protected]

📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umbccareers

▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UMBCcareers

🌐 Career Center Webpage: careers.umbc.edu

📝 Personal Statement Guide

📖 Career Guide

📄 LinkedIn Connection Guide

❓ Sample Interview Questions Worksheet

🎥 Big Interview Platform

💼 Retrievers Connect (Mentorship & Networking)

🚀Handshake Appointments & Job Listings

#UMBC #CareerSuccess #Networking #JobSearch #Internships #CareersUnleashed

Timestamps:

2:00 Controversy: Do you have to engage with the Career Center directly to get value from the Career Center? 

14:00 Unleashing Resume Appointment- what to expect and answers to common questions

18:30 Cover Letter and Personal Statement Appointment- tips and structure

27:00 Internship and Job Search Strategies Appointment

33:15 Interview Preparation Appointment

Thanks for listening to UMBC Careers Unleashed. If you have other questions about the job search or figuring out your career path, please comment, like, and subscribe. We are taking questions throughout the year and will be answering them here every other week. This podcast is sponsored by UMBC Career Center, Recording and Production by Judson Asomani, Directed by Marykate Conroy, Music and Intro by Isaiah Dunn, Hosted by Stephanie Taylor Okoukoni, Graphics by Dustin Eby, Sam Nguyen, and Tolulupe Ajabade.

Are you feeling nervous about interviews? Wondering what job and career options there are for you? Have you been applying for jobs and internships for months with no progress? 🎙️Welcome to UMBC Careers Unleashed!This episode is packed with practical advice and resources tailored for your career journey. You will walk away with top tips on navigating your nerves, networking and job searching, preparing or not preparing, figuring out what you can do, and tons of tools and resources you can access RIGHT NOW, wherever you are.📝Comment with other questions you have!We will do this segment every so often so we can tackle head on what you need answered now. Questions answered in this episode:  "What do I do if I’m nervous in an interview?" | “How do I answer ‘Tell Me About Yourself’ | “How do I figure out what I am interested in?” | “I have been applying for months online and still don’t have a job, what do I do?” 

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

📩 Questions and Inquiries?[email protected]

👩‍💻Interview Prep Platform:Big Interview 

💼Find Jobs & Internships: Career Center and On-Campus Recruiting |Handshake | LinkedIn | Idealist📚Explore Majors & Careers: FOCUS2 Assessment |Stepping Blocks|Additional Tools

🔍Network Like a Pro: Retrievers Connect | UMBC LinkedIn Alumni📅Career Appointments: Schedule Here

Episode Highlights:

⏰ 2:23 – "What do I do if I’m nervous in an interview?"

⏰ 6:00 - Preparing- what does that look like?

⏰ 9:00 - Answering “Tell Me About Yourself”

⏰ 14:45 - “How do I figure out what I am interested in?”

⏰ 23:10 - “I have been applying for months online and still don’t have a job, what do I do?” 

⏰ 33:00 - “How do I find and get a job or internship?”

Available now on YouTube, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Thanks for listening to UMBC Careers Unleashed. If you have other questions about the job search or figuring out your career path, please📝 comment, ❤️like, and 🔔subscribe. We are taking questions throughout the year and will be answering them here every other week. This podcast is sponsored by UMBC Career Center, Recording and Production by Judson Asomani, Directed by Marykate Conroy, Music and Intro by Isaiah Dunn, Hosted by Stephanie Taylor Okoukoni, Graphics by Dustin Eby, Sam Nguyen, and Tolulupe Ajabade.

Struggling to make networking feel natural? In this episode, Isaiah Dunn, Marykate Conroy, and Stephanie Taylor Okoukoni share their personal experiences and expert advice to help you navigate the world of networking with confidence. Learn how to approach professionals and peers authentically—whether at a career fair, in a coffee shop, or during everyday encounters. Packed with actionable tips and honest conversations, this episode will inspire you to overcome your fears, make meaningful connections, and take charge of your career journey. Don’t miss this must-listen guide to stress-free networking! Comment with your questions and share what approach to networking has worked for you.

Resources:

Link to Retrievers Connect: https://retrieversconnect.umbc.edu/

Handshake: https://careers.umbc.edu/handshake/

Political Science Mentor Program: https://politicalscience.umbc.edu/mentor-mentee-program/

Timestamps:

2:58: Controversy- Which is more important: Who you know, or what you know?

10:59: What is Networking...for real

31:46: "But it all feels so calculated..."

37:30: The pressure is on, time is of the essence– how to navigate the urgency

39:00: I’m underrepresented or I don’t know anybody, how to be strong in a position of disadvantage

50:55: I only have 1-2 min to interact with someone and make an impression (like at a career fair or mixer)

53:33: What someone appreciates when being "networked" with

55:00: Resources to reduce your stress and fear around networking

Thanks for listening to UMBC Careers Unleashed. If you have other questions about the job search or figuring out your career path, please comment, like, and subscribe. We are taking questions throughout the year and will be answering them here every other week.

This podcast is funded and hosted by UMBC Career Center, Recording and Production by Judson Asomani, Directed by Marykate Conroy, Music and Intro by Isaiah Dunn, Hosted by Stephanie Taylor Okoukoni with co host and collaborator, Isaiah Dunn, Graphics by Dustin Eby, Sam Nguyen, and Tolulupe Ajabade.

In this episode, we dive into the realities of job hunting for college students, tackling imposter syndrome, virtual interview challenges, and the frustration of applications that lead to silence. Get practical tips to build confidence, make the most of your interviews, and handle the dreaded 'no response' situation with resilience. Whether you're prepping for interviews or recovering from a tough job search experience, this conversation is packed with relatable insights and advice to keep you motivated.