So I was recently talking to my older sister about how different our college experiences are so far- different majors, different age groups, different...
This post features 5 tips on networking in college.
You know, despite how annoying I find the whole phrase about your network being your net worth; it’s actually a pretty valid argument.
In this day and age who you know may be more important than what you know.
And as sleazy as it sounds, it’s important for us to make connections with lots of different people.
The good thing is, as college students we have access to all kinds of people for all kinds of backgrounds.
All you need to do is rub shoulders, smooch some cheeks and viola, you have a summer internship!
I’m kidding it’s not that easy.
But networking in college is not as hard as people make it seem either. So if you’re a bit intimidated; don’t be.
I’ll be giving you all the tips and tricks you need to schmooze your way through college!
Here are 5 tips on networking in college as a student.
Start with your professors
What most people don’t think about is the fact that professors aren’t just educators; they’re industry professionals who probably know a lot of important people.
And you don’t even have to kiss ass stroke their egos most of the time.
You can start by being participative and productive in class, or by going to office hours.
Either way, you can’t go wrong with being friends with your professors.
Befriend classmates and alumni
Your classmates are also gonna become professionals in a lot of different industries.
Try joining study groups, and actually making an effort when you have to collaborate on group projects.
If you’re up for it you can even join student government and other leadership initiatives.
Being friends with a few of your fellow students can’t hurt either.
Take advantage of Career Fairs and Networking Events
If there’s one thing colleges like to do it’s host career fairs! I don’t know if they lowkey compete over who can do it better or what; but that’s beside the point.
These fairs are pretty good opportunities to meet recruiters, alumni and to really put yourself out there.
Jot down a few questions, throw on your favorite business casual get-up, and go right ahead and work that charm…
Work that elevator pitch
If I asked you right now to tell me all about yourself in sixty seconds would you be able to?
That’s why you gotta work on that elevator pitch.
Having an interesting first impression is a surefire way to make sure you don’t get lost in the sea of people your potential connection meets daily.
People have short attention spans, and even less time to spare. So you gotta shoot your shot quickly and efficiently.
Tell them your major and about the experience you have that is useful to them.
This way it doesn’t feel like you’re selling something, but explaining how there can be mutual benefit in your relationship…
Keep in touch
Once the connection is made, you absolutely have to nurture it.
Networking doesn’t just stop after the first meeting; that’s not how people work.
You can start by sending thank you emails after networking events, and checking in maybe every few months to share updates or ask for advice.
If there’s something you think would be valuable to them don’t be afraid to share resources.
At the end of the day, the steps you take to main the relationship is just as important as what you do to build it. You shouldn’t be skimping on either of them..
What are your tips for networking in college? Let me know in the comments…
