5 Ways to Network in School

Natalie Larocque
August 22, 2023
Newsletter Article

Professionally, networking is interacting with others to expand the number of connections you have. As a post-secondary or college student, you have enough on your plate, and the thought of trying to network while balancing everything else can seem daunting.

We’ve all heard we need to network, but what exactly is it?

Here are five ways that you can network while still in school:

Career Fairs

Most university and college faculties host several job fairs throughout the year, specific to students and their area of study. Take advantage of these opportunities when they arise. Remember that virtual career fairs are still an option and will take less time away from your already packed schedule. Some examples of how career fairs are useful when networking include:

Making an impression and connecting with employers and companies.
Getting a feel for a company and determining if it is one you might consider applying to.
Seeing the vast range of career opportunities.

Take Advantage of School Resources

You are investing a lot of time and money to pursue your post-secondary or college education, so get the most out of it by using the available resources. Career Services allows students to get job search ready by helping them fine-tune resumes and cover letters, practicing your interview skills and much more.

Career Services offices often have employer partners who may reach out and ask for qualified candidates. In working with career services, they may recommend you to the employer and, in turn, expand your network of connections.
Many Career Services faculty will have connections to specific industries. You may learn that a staff member is connected to the industry that you wish to pursue; this is an excellent opportunity to ask for advice and gain their insight into the industry.

Reach out to Dream Employers!

My favorite university professor was huge on chasing your dream job. His perspective changed how I now think about career goals.

Reaching out and expressing employment interest to major companies while still in school might seem like a shot in the dark, but it may pay off. Although they may not even get back to you, it is a valuable outreach when seeking future employment. Having that interaction and being able to say that you reached out previously demonstrates ambition and that you are passionate about the company and industry! This type of networking helps to make connections that would not exist if you didn’t take the risk of making the first step.

You never know; you may get a response!

Use Social Media

Social media is a great tool that has made it possible to network from anywhere in the world. Platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter are useful to stay up to date with trends and industry-specific news by:

Following related companies and professionals online.

Most companies often post updates on upcoming events they are attending.

Professionally connecting with industry representatives on LinkedIn.

Talk about your career goals!

Networking is often spontaneous and unexpected. Expanding your network can happen when you least expect it to!

Talk to your friends, family, and peers about your career goals and what you aspire to do. There is a good chance that someone you speak with will have connections in the industry you are passionate about and could give you their insight.

You never know, this simple chatter could lead to a connection that may land you an interview and potentially a great job.

Networking is an essential tool that helps foster your professional development and grow your connections. Hopefully, after reading this, you can try some of these tools to start networking during your time at school!

For more career advice on networking & to kick start your career search, visit AgCareers.com!

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