Resources for Terps Impacted by Federal Government Changes
Support for current or former federal employees
The Alumni Association knows that many of our Terp alums, both here in the DMV and across the country, are feeling direct impacts from the ongoing changes within the federal government. In times of uncertainty, your Alumni Association is here to help you remain Fearless Forever.
The resources on this page are not exhaustive, but some of the many available to you whether you're:
- making an unexpected career transition and need help figuring out next steps,
- sourcing advice and insights from fellow Terps,
- or just looking to stay involved with the Terp community.
Stay tuned for continued updates with new resources or information.
Terrapins Connect
With over 23,000 users, Terrapins Connect is our online platform that allows Terps to network, find mentors and explore new job opportunities with fellow alumni. If you're already a current user, be sure to refresh your profile with the most up-to-date information. As a new user, you can sync your Terrapins Connect profile with your LinkedIn account to help streamline the process.
When you're ready, use Terrapins Connect to:
- Explore the job board for new opportunities
- Join the Terps in Government group for discussions and insights
- Check out the Career Paths to discover roles you may not have considered before
Free Spot Coaching Sessions with Lauren Springer '82
Are you a current federal employee with over 10 years of experience in government? Are you questioning your next move, whether inside or outside government, due to the current environment? Are you ready to retire but unsure how to take the next step or when the right time is?
Lauren Springer ‘82 is offering pro bono spot coaching sessions for UMD alumni. These one-on-one, virtual sessions last about 50 minutes and are confidential. As a career federal employee and an ICF Professional Certified Coach, Lauren supports clients in bridging the gap between their current situation and goals in a safe, nonjudgmental space. Although coaching is not counselling or therapy, her role does include providing support, structure, and accountability, helping clients overcome obstacles and take action.
Sessions from May 19 through June 29, 2025. Sign up today for the next available session.
We're incredibly grateful to Lauren for generously volunteering her time to provide these sessions for fellow Terp alums. To ensure everyone has a fair chance to participate, and out of respect for her time, please do your best to attend the session you sign up for. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give at least 24 hours' notice.
Featured Events
Recent Alumni Mentorship Program
June 4 - 25
Virtual & In-Person
Are you interested in helping mentor the next generation of Terps? Do you have knowledge and expertise that a recent graduate might find useful, such as learning how to launch a career, navigating the transition from college to the workforce, or how to utilize professional development or a graduate degree for upward mobility? If so, consider joining the Recent Alumni Mentorship Program (RAMP) as a mentor!
The program runs for the month of June, with virtual one-on-one meetings with mentees each week, closing with an in-person networking event. Open to alumni who live in the DMV area only. Mentorship spots are limited, so sign up today and help build a Fearlessly Forward Terp Network.
Connect with fellow Terps and expand your professional network at Terps in Your Town—our regional alumni networking events bringing UMD graduates together in cities across the country. Whether you're looking to make new connections, spark career opportunities or just share your Maryland pride, this is your chance to stay connected!
Upcoming Locations & Dates:
- Pennsylvania
EnTERPreneur Mentoring Program
July 14 - August 8, 2025
This four-week mentorship program is designed to bring together talented Terps and connect them with experienced alumni entrepreneurs. Mentorship offers many opportunities, including promoting career and scholarly success, helping in career exploration, and building important, lasting relationships with others. If you have a background or interest in entrepreneurship, then this program is for you! Registration opens on June 1.
Other Resources
Coaches Corner - Connect with top-level Terp Coaches who can help you restart, advance, or pivot your career.
Career Guides - Review these informative guides to help you stay up-to-date with best practices and industry trends, no matter your career stage.
EnTERPreneur Network - Ready to start a new business or expand a venture to a new level? Connect with like-minded Terps to reach new heights.
Upcoming Events - Check out future events in your area and virtually.
Terp Elected Officials - Want to contact an elected official for help or guidance? Consider contacting a fellow Terp from this list.
MD State Site for Workers Impacted by Federal Actions - Check out this site for additional resources available to Maryland residents.
Communications from President Pines - Review recent campus communications about this issue and others impacting the UMD Community.
Pathway's Forward Resource Hub - Additional resources provided by UMD available to all Marylanders, including special resources for UMD alumni.
Robert H. Smith School of Business Resources - The Smith School is offering tuition discounts for current and former federal civil service workers on qualifying graduate programs and executive education courses. Additionally, the Smith School is offering a free Online Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Career Empowerment. Visit their site for more information.
Need a Professional Headshot? - The University Career Center is excited to offer the Professional Photo Booth. Located at the University Career Center (3100 Hornbake Library, South Wing). UMD Alumni are welcome to drop by during operating hours (M-F, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.) but priority is given to students with appointments.