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How can I properly network in college?
I am a rising sophomore currently on break. My first year in college I was successful when it came to making acquaintances and friends, but I lacked in my networking skills. Also, how can I network outside of school to start practicing?
10 answers
Updated
Maura’s Answer
Those people you are organically meeting in college- your roommates, your classmates, your TAs, your professors, can ALL introduce you to people and opportunities that can be helpful. But you've got to nurture those relationships. LinkedIn is an easy way to do this for professional relationships- and social media can be helpful for the more personal relationships. Knowing what's going on in people's lives and sharing with them what's going on in yours can keep the relationship alive and make it easier to make an ask down the road (for job search support, an introduction to someone etc.)
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Tracy’s Answer
There are several ways to network that will serve you well during college and beyond. Here are a few suggestions:
- Join a school club related to your major - these clubs often offer opportunities to network with other students, faculty and industry experts
- Attend office hours for your classes - even if you don't need extra help, it's a great way to form closer connections with your professors that can assist with networking and letters of recommendations
- Attend networking events at your college - most schools hold events within each respective program that allow you to network with professionals in your field of study
- Sign up on LinkedIn and then join the alumni group for your college - as well as industry groups related to your field of study - you may often hear "it's not what you know, it's who you know" so the more connections you make the better that can assist with internship and job opportunities
- Join a school club related to your major - these clubs often offer opportunities to network with other students, faculty and industry experts
- Attend office hours for your classes - even if you don't need extra help, it's a great way to form closer connections with your professors that can assist with networking and letters of recommendations
- Attend networking events at your college - most schools hold events within each respective program that allow you to network with professionals in your field of study
- Sign up on LinkedIn and then join the alumni group for your college - as well as industry groups related to your field of study - you may often hear "it's not what you know, it's who you know" so the more connections you make the better that can assist with internship and job opportunities
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Bryan’s Answer
Hi Jayla, I hope you enjoyed your freshman year at school! When it comes to networking, do not overthink it too much. While it is important to present yourself professionally and ask relevant questions to the professor/professional you are networking with, it is definitely ok to have friendly, non-professional conversations as well. People enjoy having normal conversations as well at networking events. In terms of places to practice networking, any social event is a great opportunity to practice networking. I think your school will be the best option for a variety of networking events. However, one way to practice in a low stakes environment is to go to a networking event for a field/career different than your major. You can refine your networking skills, continue to build your network, and learn something new about a unique career field!
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Melissa’s Answer
Hello Jayla,
Networking is an amazing way to meet new people and share what makes you unique. One of the best ways to do this is by becoming part of school groups such as clubs and labs. Joining sports teams or music programs is another fun way to find your a group. Remember, colleges and universities are full of opportunities to get involved. They usually have a wide range of clubs and organizations where you can find like-minded friends.
Networking is an amazing way to meet new people and share what makes you unique. One of the best ways to do this is by becoming part of school groups such as clubs and labs. Joining sports teams or music programs is another fun way to find your a group. Remember, colleges and universities are full of opportunities to get involved. They usually have a wide range of clubs and organizations where you can find like-minded friends.
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Quin’s Answer
You are doing great! As far as starting more official networking, go to the company info sessions that are hosted at your school. Make sure you hang around after an introduce yourself to whoever came to speak. When you get home, add them on LinkedIn and send them a message of thanks -- be sure to tell them if there are any positions you intend to apply for too!
Another route you can use takes into account the fact that your new college friends ARE your network! Make sure you all boost each other up and help connect dots for each other as you all get to go work for different companies. If you are part of any clubs or organizations, seek out the people who you admire and get their advice on ways you can get acquainted with various companies. When looking at LinkedIn, you can see if you have mutual connections with anyone so, for example, if you are applying to a job and you see the recruiter is connected to someone that is in the same club as you, you can reach out to that club member and ask for a recommendation or interview advice.
One valuable tip I learned about networking is that when you reach out to someone, you should ask them for advice or to learn about their career. Do NOT reach out and ask for help or a job -- showing genuine interest in someone is a better way to build your network, and takes you further in the long run.
I hope this helps. Good luck!
Another route you can use takes into account the fact that your new college friends ARE your network! Make sure you all boost each other up and help connect dots for each other as you all get to go work for different companies. If you are part of any clubs or organizations, seek out the people who you admire and get their advice on ways you can get acquainted with various companies. When looking at LinkedIn, you can see if you have mutual connections with anyone so, for example, if you are applying to a job and you see the recruiter is connected to someone that is in the same club as you, you can reach out to that club member and ask for a recommendation or interview advice.
One valuable tip I learned about networking is that when you reach out to someone, you should ask them for advice or to learn about their career. Do NOT reach out and ask for help or a job -- showing genuine interest in someone is a better way to build your network, and takes you further in the long run.
I hope this helps. Good luck!
Updated
Kevin P’s Answer
Jayla, great question. And I never realized this until my wife started doing this… chamber of commerce.
Join your local chamber of commerce. In your case, just to learn how to network. You aren’t going to build your business necessarily but you’re going to learn a life skill.
They have 4-6 different networking and get togethers per month. It’ll get you in a room with people who also want and need to network. So it’s win win. It’s not free. This has a small fee.
Another way to try and go about this is join clubs at school that are based on conversation and collaboration. Journalism, student council, debate. Pick any one of them to get your name and voice heard.
Best of luck!
Join your local chamber of commerce. In your case, just to learn how to network. You aren’t going to build your business necessarily but you’re going to learn a life skill.
They have 4-6 different networking and get togethers per month. It’ll get you in a room with people who also want and need to network. So it’s win win. It’s not free. This has a small fee.
Another way to try and go about this is join clubs at school that are based on conversation and collaboration. Journalism, student council, debate. Pick any one of them to get your name and voice heard.
Best of luck!
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Jayla !
It's great that you had a wonderful first year in college and if you want tips on networking for your career, you should mention what subject your major is in because networking takes on different ways for different careers or majors.
This advice is general and the usual type of advice in general, but you must discover your field of study and what venues would bring you into contact with people that you can connect with. I am also not sure of which college you are attending and what opportunities may be available on campus that you may not have tried yet. So, in general, attend Job Fairs, do volunteer work, attend conferences in your field of study, seek internships, apply for scholarships and grants and join groups and extracurriculars pertaining to your field of study.
Work Study would also possibly bring you in contact with people to network with. The next time you apply for federal financial aid, choose the Work Study option and once you receive confirmation that it was granted to you, go to your major department and let them know you want a work study job. It's really going to depend on what you're majoring in. You can also visit the Main Library in Manhattan to see if there are any free activities or trainings or events connected to your field of study. It is easy to network in New York City and you will no doubt find many venues.
So, you asked how you can start practicing outside of school - practicing what ? You'd have to be more specific, actually. Maybe a good way to "practice" beyond volunteer work or an internship would be to ask one of your professors on campus about specific opportunities. Visit your Career Center on campus for possible off-campus opportunities. Research online for any professional organizations or unions connected to your field of study and visit their offices. You may be able to obtain a part time job in your field of study until you go back to college in the Fall.
Register at Linked In and follow and connect with many people in your city that are also studying or working in your field of study. Also, consider that your particular college, as other colleges do in NYC, have specific Networking opportunities at the college, so ask about these on campus. The campus activities may have opportunities that outreach to off campus places that could give you a work/volunteer experience.
So this is just a general idea of some things that you can do to be active in your field of study and meet new professional contacts. I wish you all the best and I have left some links below for networking in your city.
PROFESSIONAL NETWORKING IN NEW YORK CITY https://blog.unpakt.com/tips-professional-networking-new-york-city/
NETWORKING GROUPS IN NEW YORK CITY https://www.meetup.com/find/us--ny--new-york/professional-networking/
NETWORKING EVENTS IN NEW YORK CITY https://www.eventbrite.com/d/ny--new-york/networking/
It's great that you had a wonderful first year in college and if you want tips on networking for your career, you should mention what subject your major is in because networking takes on different ways for different careers or majors.
This advice is general and the usual type of advice in general, but you must discover your field of study and what venues would bring you into contact with people that you can connect with. I am also not sure of which college you are attending and what opportunities may be available on campus that you may not have tried yet. So, in general, attend Job Fairs, do volunteer work, attend conferences in your field of study, seek internships, apply for scholarships and grants and join groups and extracurriculars pertaining to your field of study.
Work Study would also possibly bring you in contact with people to network with. The next time you apply for federal financial aid, choose the Work Study option and once you receive confirmation that it was granted to you, go to your major department and let them know you want a work study job. It's really going to depend on what you're majoring in. You can also visit the Main Library in Manhattan to see if there are any free activities or trainings or events connected to your field of study. It is easy to network in New York City and you will no doubt find many venues.
So, you asked how you can start practicing outside of school - practicing what ? You'd have to be more specific, actually. Maybe a good way to "practice" beyond volunteer work or an internship would be to ask one of your professors on campus about specific opportunities. Visit your Career Center on campus for possible off-campus opportunities. Research online for any professional organizations or unions connected to your field of study and visit their offices. You may be able to obtain a part time job in your field of study until you go back to college in the Fall.
Register at Linked In and follow and connect with many people in your city that are also studying or working in your field of study. Also, consider that your particular college, as other colleges do in NYC, have specific Networking opportunities at the college, so ask about these on campus. The campus activities may have opportunities that outreach to off campus places that could give you a work/volunteer experience.
So this is just a general idea of some things that you can do to be active in your field of study and meet new professional contacts. I wish you all the best and I have left some links below for networking in your city.
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Trung’s Answer
Here are some friendly tips to help you network effectively during your college years:
Get Involved in Clubs and Organizations: Find groups that match your passions or career dreams and become an active member.
Be Present at Events: Make sure to attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures. It's a great way to meet new friends and gain knowledge.
Make the Most of Social Media: Platforms like LinkedIn are your best friends. They help you connect with professionals and alumni who can guide you.
Connect with Your Professors: They are not just teachers, but also mentors. Build strong bonds with them for valuable advice and connections.
Become a Volunteer: It's a wonderful way to give back, meet peers who share your interests, and even find potential mentors.
By following these friendly strategies, you'll be able to build a strong network that will support your academic and career dreams. Wishing you all the best!
Get Involved in Clubs and Organizations: Find groups that match your passions or career dreams and become an active member.
Be Present at Events: Make sure to attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures. It's a great way to meet new friends and gain knowledge.
Make the Most of Social Media: Platforms like LinkedIn are your best friends. They help you connect with professionals and alumni who can guide you.
Connect with Your Professors: They are not just teachers, but also mentors. Build strong bonds with them for valuable advice and connections.
Become a Volunteer: It's a wonderful way to give back, meet peers who share your interests, and even find potential mentors.
By following these friendly strategies, you'll be able to build a strong network that will support your academic and career dreams. Wishing you all the best!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jayla!
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you establish a strong online presence:
1. Harness the Power of the Internet: The internet is a vast platform that can help you reach out to a global audience. Start by setting up a YouTube Studio site, similar to my Diet Wizard showcase.
2. Create Your Own Website: Having a personal website can significantly boost your online presence. It's a platform where you can showcase your work, skills, and services.
3. Start a Blog: A blog is a great way to share your thoughts, ideas, and experiences. It can also help you establish yourself as an expert in your field.
4. Establish a Company: Consider forming a company and getting it registered. This will give your business a formal structure and make it more credible.
5. Leverage Social Media: Social media platforms can help you reach out to a large audience. Use them effectively to promote your business and engage with your audience.
6. Build Your Network: Start compiling a list of contacts. These could be potential customers, partners, or mentors. Networking is key to business success.
7. Define Your Mission Statement: A mission statement clearly outlines the purpose of your business. It guides your actions and decisions, and communicates your business's goals to your audience.
8. Pray for Success: Believe in yourself and your business. Have faith that your hard work and dedication will lead to success.
9. Be the CEO: As the CEO, you're the driving force behind your business. Make strategic decisions, manage resources, and lead your team towards achieving your business goals.
10. Optimize SEO: SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is crucial for improving your online visibility. Use relevant keywords, create quality content, and follow other SEO practices to rank higher in search engine results.
Remember, building a strong online presence takes time and consistent effort. But with determination and the right strategies, you're sure to succeed. Good luck!
Best,
JC.
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you establish a strong online presence:
1. Harness the Power of the Internet: The internet is a vast platform that can help you reach out to a global audience. Start by setting up a YouTube Studio site, similar to my Diet Wizard showcase.
2. Create Your Own Website: Having a personal website can significantly boost your online presence. It's a platform where you can showcase your work, skills, and services.
3. Start a Blog: A blog is a great way to share your thoughts, ideas, and experiences. It can also help you establish yourself as an expert in your field.
4. Establish a Company: Consider forming a company and getting it registered. This will give your business a formal structure and make it more credible.
5. Leverage Social Media: Social media platforms can help you reach out to a large audience. Use them effectively to promote your business and engage with your audience.
6. Build Your Network: Start compiling a list of contacts. These could be potential customers, partners, or mentors. Networking is key to business success.
7. Define Your Mission Statement: A mission statement clearly outlines the purpose of your business. It guides your actions and decisions, and communicates your business's goals to your audience.
8. Pray for Success: Believe in yourself and your business. Have faith that your hard work and dedication will lead to success.
9. Be the CEO: As the CEO, you're the driving force behind your business. Make strategic decisions, manage resources, and lead your team towards achieving your business goals.
10. Optimize SEO: SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is crucial for improving your online visibility. Use relevant keywords, create quality content, and follow other SEO practices to rank higher in search engine results.
Remember, building a strong online presence takes time and consistent effort. But with determination and the right strategies, you're sure to succeed. Good luck!
Best,
JC.
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
Going to networking events, even if you're by yourself, can be a truly empowering experience. These events could be social mixers, work-related gatherings, or personal get-togethers. Building connections, particularly in today's social media-driven world, can offer immediate benefits and also prove invaluable in the future. The knowledge and perspectives you'll gain from others will invigorate your mind and fast-track your personal and professional development.
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