Advertise on podcast: UMBC Mic'd Up

What does it take to turn a passion for geography into the technical skills needed for a career in GIS? And what if you don't have a background in coding? In this episode of UMBC Mic'd Up, host Dennise Cardona, M.A. '23, talks with Drishti Gandhi, a student in UMBC's Geographic Information Systems (GIS) master's program, about her journey from a geography background to confidently working with programming, spatial data, and artificial intelligence. Drishti shares how hands-on projects, supportive faculty, and real-world applications have helped her develop new technical skills and a deeper understanding of the impact GIS professionals can make. From analyzing Baltimore's 311 service requests and neighborhood income data to using satellite imagery to study environmental change, Drishti offers a firsthand look at what learning GIS at UMBC is really like. She also discusses how faculty are helping students use AI responsibly, building both technical capabilities and the critical thinking skills needed to make informed decisions. Whether you're considering a career in GIS, looking to expand your technical skills, or curious about how geospatial technology is shaping our world, Drishti's experience offers valuable insight into what's possible. Learn more about UMBC's GIS graduate program: https://professionalprograms.umbc.edu/geographic-information-systems/ #UMBC #GIS #GeographicInformationSystems #GraduateEducation #UMBCMicdUp

Artificial intelligence is making it easier than ever to write, research, brainstorm, and create. But at what point does helpful technology begin replacing our own thinking?  In this episode of UMBC Mic’d Up, host Dennise Cardona, '23, M.A., explores how to embrace the benefits of AI without losing the creativity, critical thinking, and individuality that make our work distinctly human.  From the beauty of imperfect human expression to the risks of becoming overly dependent on AI-generated content, this episode invites graduate students and working professionals to think more intentionally about how they're using these powerful tools.  You'll also hear practical ways to keep your own voice at the center of your work, including starting with your own ideas, using AI for refinement rather than replacement, questioning its responses, and taking time to reflect on what you're learning.  AI can help us work more efficiently, but the meaning, judgment, and originality we bring to our work still matter. The question isn't whether we should use AI. It's how much of our own thinking we're willing to hand over to it. #UMBC #ArtificialIntelligence #CriticalThinking #GraduateSchool #ProfessionalDevelopment

Group projects in graduate school can bring up plenty of concerns: uneven workloads, communication challenges, conflicting personalities, and the feeling that your success depends on someone else. But what if group work is actually preparing you for something much bigger than the assignment? In this episode of UMBC Mic’d Up, host Dennise Cardona, M.A. '23, explores why group work is an intentional part of the graduate school experience and how it can help you develop skills that matter well beyond the classroom. From communication and accountability to conflict resolution, adaptability, and leadership, the challenges of working with others can become opportunities for professional growth. You’ll also hear practical strategies for becoming a stronger group member, setting expectations early, creating a group charter, and building a team environment grounded in trust, respect, and accountability. Because group work isn’t just about getting the project done. It’s practice for how you’ll collaborate, contribute, and lead in the professional world.

What exactly is industrial-organizational (I-O) psychology—and what can you do with a career in the field?  In this episode of UMBC Mic’d Up, host Dennise Cardona, M.A. '23 talks with Dr. Henri Maindidze, Interim Graduate Program Director of UMBC’s I-O Psychology Graduate Program, about how I-O psychology uses research, data, and evidence-based practices to improve the workplace.  They explore the difference between I-O psychology and human resources, career opportunities for I-O psychology graduates, and the growing role I-O psychologists can play as organizations navigate generative AI and other changes shaping the future of work.  Dr. Maindidze also discusses UMBC’s applied approach to graduate education, including the capstone experience, where students put their skills to work solving real organizational challenges.  Learn more about UMBC’s graduate program in Industrial-Organizational Psychology through the links below. #IOPsychology #IndustrialOrganizationalPsychology #FutureOfWork #PsychologyCareers #UMBC  Connect with Dr. Henri Maindidze:  LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/henri-maindidze  Website: https://www.henrimaindidze.com/

Your personal brand is more than your LinkedIn profile. It’s what people know you for, what they remember about you, and the expertise and perspective you bring to your field. In this episode of UMBC Mic’d Up, host Dennise Cardona, M.A. '23, explores how to build your personal brand beyond LinkedIn through podcasting, public speaking, sharing your ideas, and developing thought leadership. But building a professional presence doesn’t mean you have to become a full-time content creator—or try to be everywhere at once. Instead, start with one approach that feels natural to you and gives others an opportunity to experience what you know and how you think. Because ultimately, personal branding isn’t just about promoting yourself. It’s about making your expertise easier to find. If you’re looking to strengthen your professional presence, share your knowledge, and become known for the value you bring to your field, this episode offers a practical place to start.

What does a career in GIS really look like—and how can graduate education help you grow in a field that’s constantly evolving? In this episode of UMBC Mic’d Up, host Dennise Cardona, M.A. '23, talks with Meghan Arnold, a current student in UMBC’s Geographic Information Systems master’s program and a GIS technician working in local government.  Meghan shares how she uses GIS to map and maintain critical storm water infrastructure, how skills from the classroom have translated directly to projects at work, and why communicating complex geographic data to non-GIS audiences is just as important as creating the maps themselves. She also discusses balancing graduate school with a full-time career, the flexibility she has found in the program, and her long-term goal of becoming a GIS manager.  Tune in for a student’s perspective on the real-world impact of GIS—and why this growing field is about much more than maps.  Learn More: https://professionalprograms.umbc.edu/geographic-information-systems/

What does it really mean to be authentic in today's workplace? In this episode of UMBC Mic'd Up, host Dennise Cardona, M.A., '23, sits down with Timothy Olivella, a graduate student in UMBC's Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Leadership (EIL) program, to explore the role authenticity plays in professional success, leadership, workplace culture, and personal fulfillment. Learn more about UMBC Professional Programs and the Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Leadership (EIL) program: https://professionalprograms.umbc.edu/entrepreneurship-innovation-leadership/masters-of-professional-studies-entrepreneurship-innovation-and-leadership/ #UMBCMicdUp #UMBC #Authenticity #Leadership #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment

What separates a good leader from a truly effective one? In this episode of UMBC Mic'd Up, host Dennise Cardona, M.A. '23 sits down with Karl Douglas, L.H.D. (Hon.), Graduate Faculty in UMBC's Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Leadership (EIL) Graduate Program, to discuss leadership, communication, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and entrepreneurship in today's workplace. Karl shares lessons from his journey from sales and marketing to Director of Talent Development, where he supports the growth and development of thousands of employees. Together, they explore what it means to invest in people, create psychologically safe workplaces, embrace change, and lead with purpose. Learn more about the Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Leadership Graduate Program at UMBC #UMBC #LeadershipDevelopment #CommunicationSkills #EmotionalIntelligence #ProfessionalDevelopment #Leadership

What separates people who act on ideas from those who stay stuck in overthinking? In this episode of UMBC Mic'd Up, host Dennise Cardona, M.A. ’23, sits down with Shawn Wolf, D.S.L., graduate faculty member in UMBC's Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Leadership program, to explore the entrepreneurial mindset and why it matters far beyond starting a business. Shawn shares lessons from his own entrepreneurial journey, discusses the power of curiosity, explains why successful entrepreneurs view failure differently, and offers practical strategies for developing innovative thinking in any career. Topics discussed include: • The role of curiosity in entrepreneurship and innovation • Why failure is a valuable source of learning • Entrepreneurship vs. intrapreneurship • Taking calculated risks and navigating uncertainty • How innovation drives continuous improvement • Practical habits that help people move from ideas to action • Why entrepreneurial thinking is especially important during periods of technological change Whether you're a business owner, a leader, or simply someone looking to solve problems more effectively, this conversation offers practical insights you can apply immediately. Learn more about UMBC's Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Leadership program.

How should colleges prepare students for an AI-driven world? In this episode of UMBC Mic’d Up, Dennise Cardona, M.A. ’23, sits down with Professor Ron Wilson from UMBC’s Geographic Information Systems Master’s program to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping education, critical thinking, and the future workforce. Wilson shares the powerful moment that inspired him to develop a structured AI framework for his students and faculty—one that treats AI as an assistant, consultant, collaborator, and even tutor. Together, Dennise and Ron discuss how educators can responsibly integrate AI into the classroom while still preserving creativity, critical thinking, and authentic human voice. Listen now and discover how AI can empower—not replace—human potential. #AIinEducation #ArtificialIntelligence #HigherEducation #CriticalThinking #UMBC #Podcast #EdTech #Learning #AI #GraduateSchool

Manikanta Sirumalla, a graduate student in UMBC’s Data Science program, shares the story behind Rep Track Pro — an AI-powered fitness app designed to bring workouts, nutrition, recovery, and progress tracking into one place. In this conversation, he discusses how his own fitness journey inspired the idea, the challenges of building and launching an app as a solo founder, and how coursework in UMBC’s Data Science program helped shape the technology behind it. From machine learning models to real-world user feedback, this is a story about innovation, persistence, and building something meaningful from the ground up. Learn more about UMBC’s Data Science graduate program: https://professionalprograms.umbc.edu/data-science Learn more about RepTrack Pro App: https://reptrackpro.org/

In this episode of UMBC Mic’d Up, we sat down with Gordon Quach, M.S. ’25, to talk about his journey through the Systems Engineering graduate program at UMBC. Gordon shares what led him to pursue a master’s degree, how he balanced work and graduate school, and why systems engineering stood out among other paths. He offers practical insights on career growth, real-world application, and the value of thinking beyond individual tasks to see the bigger picture. The conversation also explores how systems thinking prepares professionals for an AI-driven world—where tools are evolving quickly, but strong problem-solving and big-picture thinking remain essential. Whether you’re considering graduate school or looking to advance your career, this episode offers a thoughtful look at what it means to build skills that last. Learn more about UMBC’s Systems Engineering Graduate Program!  https://professionalprograms.umbc.edu/systems-engineering/ms-systems-engineering/

Asking for a letter of recommendation can feel awkward—but it doesn’t have to be rushed or uncomfortable. In this episode of UMBC Mic’d Up, Dennise Cardona, M.A.’23, shares a simple, thoughtful approach to requesting a strong letter that actually supports your goals. From choosing the right person to giving them the right information, it all comes down to preparation and clarity. You’ll learn how to: Select someone who can truly speak to your workGive enough time for a meaningful letterProvide the context and materials they needMake a professional, thoughtful requestStrengthen your network before you even need to askA strong recommendation doesn’t happen by chance. It starts with how you ask. If you’re preparing for your next step, this is one you’ll want to hear.

What does it take to grow your career in today’s evolving job market? In this episode of UMBC Mic’d Up, host Dennise Cardona, M.A. '23, sits down with Rex Jarrett, Director of Professional Programs at UMBC, to explore how graduate education continues to open doors for working professionals. From building practical, real-world skills to learning how to work alongside AI, this conversation highlights how the right program can help you move forward with confidence and purpose. You’ll hear insights on: How graduate programs are adapting to today’s workforceThe skills that help professionals stand out and leadThe value of applied learning and industry-connected facultyWays to balance school with work and family lifeWhy taking the first step matters more than perfect timingIf you’re thinking about what’s next in your career, this is a great place to start. 🎓 Learn more about UMBC Professional Programs: https://professionalprograms.umbc.edu

What happens when you decide it’s finally time to finish what you started?  In this episode of UMBC Mic’d Up, Dennise sits down with Samantha Drummond, B.A. ’25, Individualized Study, who returned to UMBC after several years away to complete her degree through the Finish Line program. Samantha shares what it was like balancing full-time work, family responsibilities, and school—and how she stayed motivated through the challenges. From self-doubt to walking across the stage, her journey is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to invest in yourself.  If you’ve ever thought about going back to school, this conversation will meet you right where you are.  👉 Learn more about the UMBC Finish Line program: https://finishline.umbc.edu/