TechStart

Application Deadlines

Applications for TechStart are now open! Apply by 5 p.m. ET on Monday, June 30, for best consideration. Applications close on Monday, July 7.

Apply Now

TechStart (formerly known as Guild) is a paid opportunity for students designed to ignite interest in tech by teaching them how to code real-world, mission-driven applications. It’s your low-risk, high-reward chance to explore tech.

In one week, you’ll gain hands-on experience tackling a real-life challenge tailored to our local community. With the help and support of tech professionals, you’ll have the chance to figure out if you can picture a career in tech. The TechStart program is funded by Break Through Tech.

The 2025 TechStart sessions will run from August 11 to 15 (virtual) and August 18 to 22 (in-person).

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the eligibility requirements?

TechStart is open to all students with a focus on women and nonbinary individuals who are first- and second-year students at UMD. You can be enrolled in any major— or not have even decided on a major yet. No prior experience is required.

Incoming first-year or rising second-year degree-seeking undergraduate at the University of Maryland, College Park (UMD)
Enrolled in at least 1 course at UMD during the Fall 2024 semester
Good academic standing (2.0+ GPA)
No prior major coursework in computing (non-major courses are OK)
If you have taken CMSC131 or higher, INST126 or higher, or IMDM127, you are not eligible for TechStart. Preference will be given to students who have not taken CMSC122, CMSC125, ENME202, GEOG276, PHYS165 or PHYS265.
Open to all, with a focus on underrepresented groups in tech

Does it cost money to participate in TechStart?

TechStart is free of charge! In addition, we provide each participant with $200 after the conclusion of the program.

What does the program look like—and how does it work?

Applicants can choose between two TechStart sessions—the first is virtual, and the second is in person. There are optional social and office hour gatherings for both sessions.

Session I: August 11-15, 2025 (virtual, synchronous)
- Session I of TechStart will run from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. EST each day
Session II: August 18-22, 2025 (in-person)
- Session II of TechStart will run from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. EST most days

What will we be doing during a typical day in TechStart?

Community-building: With so much work and study being online, how can we make meaningful connections to others?
Design thinking: How can we work with others to understand and work on solutions to real-world problems?
Programming: How do I use programming tools to solve problems through reading user input, processing information, and providing meaningful output?
Careers: What do industry professionals advise in their roles as mentors? What does it look like to have a job in tech?
Study: What are the next steps for me to explore a career in tech at my current school? What is the pathway to graduate with a major in computing at UMD?

Is prior experience in tech required?

No—in fact, TechStart is the perfect program for students who have no prior experience but want to explore their interest in tech.

How can I access the TechStart application?

Log in with your UMD Directory ID and password to access the application. If you are a new student and have not yet activated your Directory ID, you may do so at identity.umd.edu. If you have any questions, please refer to #3 on the Admitted Student Checklist.