Advising Updates

Good afternoon, CS Students!

With the Fall 2026 Computer Science Career & Internship Fair happening this Monday, September 28, we want to make sure you’re fully prepared to make a great impression.

Fair Details

• When: Monday, September 28, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM EDT - Check the website for timed-entry info based on your class year!

• Employers Attending: 58 CS-focused companies - Research them in advance via Handshake!

• Help at the fair: UCC@CMNS advisors will be on-site throughout the event at our Help Booth. Stop by if you need last-minute advice or a quick confidence boost! They will also do elevator pitch practice sessions every 15-minutes to help you warm up with your peers.

• Where: STAMP Student Union | Check in will take place on the 2nd floor of STAMP in the Colony Ballroom

What to Bring

• Legible Physical picture ID for check-in on the day of the fair

• ~20 Copies of Your Resume: Print these out in advance so you're ready to hand them directly to recruiters. Be sure you also have your updated resume uploaded to your Handshake account for recruiters to access virtually as you check in at their booth during the fair!

• A Pen & Notepad: To jot down recruiter names, notes on roles, or follow-up details right after you chat.

• A Tote Bag or Backpack: To hold company swag, flyers, and your extra copies of your resume.

Quick Tips for Success

1. Research Key Employers: Pick 5–10 must-visit companies in advance and review their open roles on Handshake. Take notes on what you'd like to ask them!

2. Practice Your Elevator Pitch: Keep it under 60 seconds: state your name, major/year, key technical skills or projects, and what roles you’re seeking.

3. Follow Up: Collect business cards or LinkedIn names and send quick thank-you emails within 24 hours to stand out. This is essential!

Fair Prep Resources

• CMNS Resume Guide (with samples): go.umd.edu/cmnsresumeguide

• Fall Career & Internship Fair Guide: go.umd.edu/cmnsfairguide (Note: this has some information on the University Career Center's Fall Career and Internship Fair as well, but the general tips apply to all fairs!)

• CS Job Search Workshop Slides: go.umd.edu/csfairprep

• CS Resume Samples: go.umd.edu/techresumes

Good luck with your prep, and we look forward to seeing you Monday!