Sam Smith
When Sam Smith graduated from Loyola University Maryland in May 2026, he entered a job market he had been hearing about—and preparing for—since his junior year.
Sam knew finding that first job could be challenging, so he leaned into something he had heard throughout college: connections matter. With guidance from Knott Scholarship Funds leadership, Sam strengthened his resume, became more intentional about tracking applications and focused on building and using his network.
After applying to approximately 40 positions, Sam received two job offers—both of which were influenced by personal connections. He ultimately joined ST Engineering in Middle River as a Material Conversion Engineer in July 2026, just two months after graduation. Sam is now adjusting to professional life, including the transition from a college schedule to the structure of a full-time workday.
Undoubtedly, being a Knott Scholar played a role during the interview process.
“Knott Scholar is on my resume, and it was asked about during one of my interviews,” Sam shared. “It was a good icebreaker and a lead-in to talking about my other accomplishments.”
Looking back, Sam wishes he had started networking even earlier and encourages current Scholars not to underestimate the relationships available to them.
“Connections are more important than you think, and the Knott Scholar community is perfect for those connections,” Sam said. “Go to networking events and nurture those relationships. Don’t feel like you are annoying people by reaching out.”
For Sam, the lesson became clear as he transitioned from college to career: the Knott Scholar community is not just a network you belong to—it’s one you can continue to grow with long after graduation.
