Networking on Campus
Posted in Networking Tips
Networking is one of the most important tools in career exploration. As college students, you don't have to feel limited by that fact that you are in still in school. The fact is, college campuses are one of the most accessible networking venues.
Here are a few ways to network on campus.
Student organizations
Most colleges sponsor student organizations, including groups affiliated with national professional associations or state associations. Most of these affiliated organizations have chapters (some number in the hundreds) across the country.
These groups usually hold regular events on campus. These events usually feature working professional who talk to students about industry career options and trends. Attending or helping organize such events put you in direct contact with people who can direct you toward internship or job opportunities and/or career options.
Professors
University professors have career-related pursuits outside the academe. They are sure to have professional connections in various fields such as business or government agencies, etc. Some of your professors may be found or on the board of a company or government agency.
Also, keep in mind that professors in a particular department know which employers hire graduates from that department, and are likely in touch with alumni who are now accomplished in their field. A few minutes' worth of talk with your professors may do wonders for your career.
Student service professionals
Your college employs a number of student services professionals who work directly with you. These professionals include: residence life professionals, campus activities professionals, counseling professionals and health services professionals.
Not to mention career services professionals who work at your school's placement office or career center. Your school's career services professional interact with students and employers.
Fellow-students
Your fellow students know professionals/employers who matter from their internships. These professionals/employers hire college students recommended by students who already worked for them.
Terese Corey Blanck, director of student services for Student Experience, a suburban St. Paul company that places college students into internships says "Once we find a great student worker, we always turn to them first to see if they have any friends they can recommend."
