Four Step Process
Through career-related education and programming, UMBC’s Career Center provides Veteran students with opportunities to develop and realize their professional and career potential by maximizing their transferable skills. As students who are in the process of making a major career change, our primary goals are to help Veteran students think about where they have been (i.e., skills and experiences obtained through their military career), identify future career interests that make the most of skills currently possessed, and identify steps to take to successfully achieve their career goals.
Throughout the year we offer a variety of services including one-on-one career guidance and support, career preparation workshops, networking and recruiting events, and employer panels that can help Veteran students successfully transition from military to civilian life. We have identified a four step career readiness process for our Veteran students. By following this step-by-step process and with the support of UMBC’s Career Center, Veteran students can get on the right track toward pursuing a fulfilling career.
Step 1. Evaluate Yourself and Your Career Options
Career planning is critical to finding a good fit between you as a unique person and the work environment that’s right for you. It is important to first identify your motivations, interests, and strengths. In a tough job market, it can be tempting to jump into the job hunt feet first, but the most effective searches start with thoughtful preparation. Answering the questions “Who am I?,” “Where am I going?,” and “How am I going to get there?” are important questions to ask when preparing for a successful search.
An ongoing dynamic process, career planning will continue throughout your career as you learn and adapt to change, whether it be within yourself or within the organizations for which you work. We are here to help! Stop by the Career Center (Math/Psych, Room 201) or call 410-455-2216. You can also make an appointment online through Handshake.
In the meantime, these resources can help you evaluate your career options:
- Gain Knowledge About Your Strengths, Skills and Interests
- Gain Knowledge About Careers that Interest You
- Make Contacts
Step 2. Create a Career and Academic Plan of Action
Step 3. Prepare To Take Action
- Translate Your Military Experience to a Civilian Skill Set and Prepare Your Resume
- Prepare to Interview
- Attend Professional Development Workshops such as PRAC102 Workshops, Dining Etiquette Dinner, Dress for Success, UMBC Suits You, Senior Success Seminar, Skills4Success, and Keys to Success Workshop sessions.
- Create an Internship or Job Search Strategy
- Create a LinkedIn Account
Step 4. Take Action
- Obtain Valuable and Relevant Experience
- Find an Internship or Job
- Make Contacts
- Attend Networking Programs and Events such as Career Fairs, UMBC Connects, Internship Success Week, On the Road Employer Site Visits, Diversity Recruitment Event, and Information Sessions
- Veteran Student Services, hosted by Off-Campus Student Services, in the Division of Student Affairs
- Pursue Graduate School
Additional Resources for Students with Military Experience
Career Services Information
- DOL Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS)
- Veteran Resources: NATIONAL INITIATIVE FOR CYBERSECURITY EDUCATION (NICE)
Document and Interview Preparation Resources
Career Workshops and Seminars
Employment/Job Search Websites