CSM students find success and support through the Center for Career Development and Success

For College of Southern Maryland (CSM) students Nathan Ihama and Sehode Klidje, the Center for Career Development and Success (CCDS) is helping them build the skills and confidence to turn classroom learning into professional opportunities.  

Ihama, a second-year engineering student, is completing a four-week internship with Energetics Technology Center (ETC), a non-profit research and engineering organization.  

“At ETC I’m working on a rocket project making our own model rocket, and I’m helping out with an ETC robotics summer course for high school students at the Velocity Center,” Ihama said. “It’s really nice to see what’s happening at the Velocity Center and also learn from the students.” 

Ihama landed his internship with support from the CCDS Work-Based Learning program. The CCDS provides professional training and connects students with employers in Southern Maryland for internship and apprenticeship opportunities.  

Students begin with a competency quiz to assess career-readiness skills and to provide individualized guidance. Through one-on-one support, students receive support in mock interviews, resume building, creating an ‘elevator pitch’ to highlight their strengths, and making connections for future professional opportunities.  

Klidje is a computer engineering student and recently completed a two-week internship assisting a summer robotics course for high school students at the Velocity Center. She said the CCDS prepared her to enter a professional environment and gain valuable experience while following her passion of robotics.  

“They walked me through all the steps and the interviews so I could be prepared for how to behave in the workplace,” Klidje said. “It was really helpful and the internship gives me some experience in the field.”  

Industry Engagement Director Ralph Critten said having a support system to develop professional skills can make a significant difference in helping a student reach their goals.  

This year, the CCDS has helped connect 29 students with internships.  

“Our students will go on to fill critical positions in the Southern Maryland workforce,” Critten said. “This program is a great way for students to connect the dots between what they have learned in the classroom and how it will apply after they graduate. When our students build these skills, it builds up our entire region.”  

For Ihama, the Work-Based Learning program and support he received is already preparing him for the next step in his career. On track to graduate in May 2027, Ihama plans to transfer to West Virginia University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in engineering.  

“I got one other offer and another interview, all of which the CCDS helped me get,” Ihama said. “We had multiple Zoom calls between interviews. It’s not something you realize until you put it into practice, but building your communication skills is so important. All the resources are there if you just seek the help.”  

Students can still apply for fall semester internships through HawkJobs.