33 answers
Ivalani
Student
Woodside, NY
1
Question
Asked
1045 views
What are some ways I can meet people in the field that I want to create a career in?
Extra:
What are some good questions to ask about a field we might be interested in?
What is the best first step to take when you don’t have any clue on what to do for your future?
p.s. I know it was only one question but I had to take space.
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33 answers
Rachel Engleman Merin, PHR, SHRM-CP
Human Resources Business Partner
3
Answers
Cherry Hill, New Jersey
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
Networking is so important. Have your 'elevator pitch' ready where you can introduce yourself and share information in ~20 seconds or less. Ask how they got started in their career, what has been challenging and rewarding, what advice would they give to their younger selves, etc. Finding a way to connect on a personal level is important too!
Lolita Driscoll, ACC
Executive Sales Coach
3
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Lolita’s Answer
Hello,
Start by exploring what motivates you and holds your attention.
Which classes do you enjoy the most?
Which activities do you lose yourself in/lose track of time?
Next, leverage a chatGPT to explore careers that might leverage these passions.
Seek out people in one or more of these fields through LinkedIn, your parents and parents of friends, those you may know in your church or community and ask them about their careers.
Talk with your school guidance counselor about your interests and related careers and courses.
Best of luck as you take the next actions to find your purpose!
Start by exploring what motivates you and holds your attention.
Which classes do you enjoy the most?
Which activities do you lose yourself in/lose track of time?
Next, leverage a chatGPT to explore careers that might leverage these passions.
Seek out people in one or more of these fields through LinkedIn, your parents and parents of friends, those you may know in your church or community and ask them about their careers.
Talk with your school guidance counselor about your interests and related careers and courses.
Best of luck as you take the next actions to find your purpose!
S I
Finance
24
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
S’s Answer
Meeting people in a field you're interested in can be exciting and rewarding. Start small and focus on your goals. Use LinkedIn to find people in roles you admire and ask for brief chats. Attend events like happy hours, virtual panels, alumni talks, industry meetups, and join online groups. These are great ways to listen, learn, and start conversations without pressure. Internships, volunteering, and part-time jobs offer wonderful opportunities to make real connections and gain experience.
When talking to people, consider asking questions like: What does a typical day look like? What skills are most important in your role? What surprised you about this field? What would you do differently if starting today? If you're unsure about your future, start by exploring. Talk to people, try new experiences, and notice what excites you or drains you. Clarity often comes from taking action, not from having everything planned out.
When talking to people, consider asking questions like: What does a typical day look like? What skills are most important in your role? What surprised you about this field? What would you do differently if starting today? If you're unsure about your future, start by exploring. Talk to people, try new experiences, and notice what excites you or drains you. Clarity often comes from taking action, not from having everything planned out.
Kimberly DeWeese (Jenkins)
National Tax Pursuit Team Coach, PwC
3
Answers
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Improving your networking skills can open many doors for you. Try spending time on LinkedIn or connecting with teachers and family friends. Arrange casual meetings, like "coffee chats," with them. You can say something like, "I'm interested in your field. Could we chat for 30 minutes?" Make it a habit to reach out or have these chats every week. These meetings can be over coffee, lunch, or even dessert, and they can be in-person or online.
Prepare a list of questions that genuinely interest you and are relevant to the person you’re meeting. Find out more about them—did they attend a certain university? What does a typical day look like for them? If they could start over, what advice would they give themselves? Ask big, open-ended questions. After a few meetings, this process will become more natural, and you'll gain a lot from it.
Consider keeping a journal to track your progress. The connections you make now could help you land a job in the future.
Remember to listen carefully and keep practicing!
Prepare a list of questions that genuinely interest you and are relevant to the person you’re meeting. Find out more about them—did they attend a certain university? What does a typical day look like for them? If they could start over, what advice would they give themselves? Ask big, open-ended questions. After a few meetings, this process will become more natural, and you'll gain a lot from it.
Consider keeping a journal to track your progress. The connections you make now could help you land a job in the future.
Remember to listen carefully and keep practicing!
Maura Hickey, SPHR
Learning and Development
1
Answer
Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Updated
Maura’s Answer
This is a great question! I echo what the others have said. In terms of your last question around helping to determine what you would like to do in the future, I have two ideas. The first is thinking about your strengths. What comes easy to you and what do you enjoy? If you can find a role that leverages these areas would be idea. I would also suggest trying a lot of different things such as different volunteer activities and projects at school and/or internships. This can help you to be exposed to lots of different experiences early on and then you can start to narrow down the first one of what you like and start to weed out what you don't like! Good luck!
Samantha Dennis
Global Sales Account Manager
2
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Samantha’s Answer
There are some awesome ideas here! I also suggest trying internships. Check out what's available, send out your resume, and see how you can get involved, whether it's full-time or part-time, paid or unpaid. Internships are a fantastic way to meet people in the industry you're interested in and learn a lot. Plus, they often lead to job offers or help you meet more people, which can really grow your network.
Corey King
Solution Architect
7
Answers
Bainbridge Island, WA
Updated
Corey’s Answer
Agreeing with Wong is a great start, and here are some encouraging steps you can take:
- Reach out to a career counselor at a local college. They are usually eager to help you explore career options and discuss the education you might need. You can simply share your interests and dislikes, and they'll guide you on possible career paths to consider.
- Although I can't provide links, there are many excellent websites where you can take career quizzes. These quizzes ask questions to help you discover careers that might suit you. Once you have some ideas, check out the education requirements for those jobs and see how you feel about them. It's a chance to learn what excites you.
- Another easy step is to talk to your friends' parents about their jobs and what people do at their companies. They can offer valuable insights and advice. If something catches your interest, ask if you can meet someone in that field to learn more and ask questions.
- Reach out to a career counselor at a local college. They are usually eager to help you explore career options and discuss the education you might need. You can simply share your interests and dislikes, and they'll guide you on possible career paths to consider.
- Although I can't provide links, there are many excellent websites where you can take career quizzes. These quizzes ask questions to help you discover careers that might suit you. Once you have some ideas, check out the education requirements for those jobs and see how you feel about them. It's a chance to learn what excites you.
- Another easy step is to talk to your friends' parents about their jobs and what people do at their companies. They can offer valuable insights and advice. If something catches your interest, ask if you can meet someone in that field to learn more and ask questions.
Kerry Stakem, CPC, ACC
Northeast People Leader at PwC
3
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Kerry’s Answer
Great advice has already been shared, and I completely agree! You might also want to join a professional organization at a student rate, as some offer free memberships for students. Many CPA organizations host events for students interested in the field and offer mentoring opportunities. Joining these events, whether virtual or in-person, can help you learn a lot about the business world. Best of luck!
Jessica Rivera
HR Manager
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
Hi! Networking is key, although it may seem intimidating it will all come full circle. During my summer internship, my manager previously worked at PwC and kept in touch with several folks at the firm. I successfully completed the summer internship and received a full time offer. However, I continued to go through interviews with the Big 4 and by coincidence my PwC interviewer had previously worked with the manager I met over the summer. Small world!
At school, I encourage you to talk to your professors about their professional experience and ask specific questions (ie. walk me through a day in your previous career? the challenges? )
Reflect on what brings you joy and how you can make an impact locally/globally. This may take some time, don't rush the process and wishing all the best!
At school, I encourage you to talk to your professors about their professional experience and ask specific questions (ie. walk me through a day in your previous career? the challenges? )
Reflect on what brings you joy and how you can make an impact locally/globally. This may take some time, don't rush the process and wishing all the best!
Michelle Bharmal
Deployment/Resource Management
2
Answers
Ellicott City, Maryland
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
To add to all the great advice already provided: Connect with people who work in similar fields in LinkedIn. I would also suggest your browse the websites of companies you would like to work with to see what kind of roles they have/if those roles are of interest to you and then reach out to people in similar roles on LinkedIn to get a better idea. If you are able to message them, let them know that you would like to know more about their field, the route they took to get to where they are and that you would appreciate any pointers. Good luck!
Sue Kay
Partner Affairs/HR
3
Answers
Fort Collins, Colorado
Updated
Sue’s Answer
The answers from others here are great. Your future is all about what you like and what interests you. The last thing you want to do is to go into a field that you would hate to do. Keep thinking about what energizes you and find people on those areas that you ask quesitons about the good, bad and the ugly in that field. This will helpy out a lot. Example, if you want to be be a doctor, but you don't ike the sight of blood, that may not be a good choice. :-) And that is a okay.
Be true to yourself and keep asking yourself and others, and through that exercise you will figure out the best choice for you.
Be true to yourself and keep asking yourself and others, and through that exercise you will figure out the best choice for you.
Kathleen Keeley, SHRM-CP
Product Analyst Senior Manager at PwC
4
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Kathleen’s Answer
Networking is really important, so try to attend career days and job fairs. Connect with your professors, classmates, and people on LinkedIn. Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions. The more you ask and get involved, the more you will learn and grow.
Tiffany Long
Executive Concierge
1
Answer
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
Tiffany’s Answer
Such great advise and suggestions provided already! A couple of additional things you can do to meet people in a field you're interested in include the following:
- Look for local non-profit organizations that focus on career development for young adults such as yourself. See what networking and career expo events they have throughout the year and try to attend at least 1 or 2. This will put you directly in front of a number of different organizations that are looking to mentor and recruit future professionals within their industries
- Look for internships in the career field that your interested in. Many organizations will start their recruiting processes well in advance, and may even recommend or require 1 or 2 semesters worth of an internship which could lead to a job offer!
- Don't be afraid to reach out to organizations in the field your interested in and ask if someone from the company is willing to do a shadow day with you or a zoom/teams call to pick their brain.
- Networking is very beneficial in today's job market. The more people you are able to get in front of and build a strong relationship with, the greater the chance/opportunity for a mutually beneficial introduction.
- Look for local non-profit organizations that focus on career development for young adults such as yourself. See what networking and career expo events they have throughout the year and try to attend at least 1 or 2. This will put you directly in front of a number of different organizations that are looking to mentor and recruit future professionals within their industries
- Look for internships in the career field that your interested in. Many organizations will start their recruiting processes well in advance, and may even recommend or require 1 or 2 semesters worth of an internship which could lead to a job offer!
- Don't be afraid to reach out to organizations in the field your interested in and ask if someone from the company is willing to do a shadow day with you or a zoom/teams call to pick their brain.
- Networking is very beneficial in today's job market. The more people you are able to get in front of and build a strong relationship with, the greater the chance/opportunity for a mutually beneficial introduction.
Amanda A
2
Answers
Lewes, Delaware
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
Hi!
-Attend career fairs at nearby colleges or universities.
-Meet with career counselors every few months.
-Join LinkedIn groups related to your field of interest.
-Connect with people on LinkedIn who work in roles or fields you want to explore. (Don't hesitate to send them a message to introduce yourself and ask about any internship opportunities.)
-Attend career fairs at nearby colleges or universities.
-Meet with career counselors every few months.
-Join LinkedIn groups related to your field of interest.
-Connect with people on LinkedIn who work in roles or fields you want to explore. (Don't hesitate to send them a message to introduce yourself and ask about any internship opportunities.)
Isaac Joseph
IT Data & Analytics
5
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Isaac’s Answer
You've received some great advice, Ivalani. When I was in college studying Engineering, the job market wasn't great for my field, but IT was booming. I spent months at career fairs and spoke with career counselors to learn more about the job market for my graduation year. Start by reaching out to them and ask if they can connect you with people who have interned in your area of interest. This is a fantastic starting point. Best of luck!
Jenna Parzivand
Recruiting Senior Manager
3
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Jenna’s Answer
Great question! So many great answers already but I would emphasize networking - this is a skill that you will use throughout your career in so many ways. Whether you're trying to learn more about a certain career through informational interviews or looking to get your resume in front of a hiring manager via referral. The good news is - there are so many different ways to do this if you're proactive. Attend career fairs, join LinkedIn , mentorship programs, alumni network (more recent alumni tend to be responsive and eager to help)! The key is to not be afraid to reach out and ask - the worse that can happen is someone says they're not available but overall people tend to enjoy talking about careers/interests they're passionate about. Good luck with your next steps!
Layna Dugan
Program Director
1
Answer
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Updated
Layna’s Answer
What a smart question to ask! I echo what a lot of people here have already said, but it bears worth repeating... it today's digital age, anything you can do to make in person connections will give you a leg up! For my first job out of college, I pinpointed a few local companies I was interest in interning for and then found out what local charity or networking event they were sponsors of. From there, armed with research on that company, I attended those events and looked for people who had a name tag from that company! I walked up with a smile and firm handshake. "Hi, my name is Layna, I'm in final year of school with degree in Communications. I'm really interested in learning more about ABC company because I like XYZ about it. Would it be ok if we exchanged information and I schedule time to connect with you outside of this event?" No one ever told me no!
Sending you lots of good vibes! You got this!
Sending you lots of good vibes! You got this!
Jennifer Balta
Acceleration Center Leader
9
Answers
Rochester, New York
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Professors, advisors, and guest speakers often have real industry connections and are usually happy to make introductions if you ask thoughtfully. Student organizations, academic clubs, and honor societies tied to your major are also great low-pressure spaces to meet people who share your interests and may already have internships or early career experience to learn from.
Outside of campus, informational interviews are incredibly effective and less intimidating than they sound. Reaching out on LinkedIn to alumni or professionals with a short, genuine message asking for 15–20 minutes to learn about their path often leads to meaningful conversations. Career fairs, local meetups, professional associations, and conferences, including virtual ones, give you exposure to people at different stages of the field. The goal isn’t to ask for a job right away. It’s to build familiarity, ask good questions, and slowly grow a network that feels human and supportive rather than transactional.
Outside of campus, informational interviews are incredibly effective and less intimidating than they sound. Reaching out on LinkedIn to alumni or professionals with a short, genuine message asking for 15–20 minutes to learn about their path often leads to meaningful conversations. Career fairs, local meetups, professional associations, and conferences, including virtual ones, give you exposure to people at different stages of the field. The goal isn’t to ask for a job right away. It’s to build familiarity, ask good questions, and slowly grow a network that feels human and supportive rather than transactional.
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Ivalani. If you want to start a career in a field you like, meeting the right people is very important. You can do this by going to events, workshops, or small local meetups. Big conferences are great, but smaller groups are often easier for talking to people. You can also use LinkedIn or other online networks. Through LinkedIn, you can join groups, comment on posts, and send polite messages to people in your field. Another great idea is to do informational interviews, where you ask someone about their job and how they got there. Most people like helping someone who is curious and serious.
When you talk to people in a field, it helps to have some questions ready. You can ask: "How did you start in this field?" or "What advice do you have for someone new?" You can also ask what their day-to-day work is like, what the hardest part of their job is, and what skills are most important. Another good question is: "What changes do you see happening in this field in the next few years?" Asking these kinds of questions shows you are interested and paying attention. Always listen carefully and try to make the conversation friendly, not just a list of questions.
If you don't know what to do with your future, you need to think about what you enjoy, what you are good at, and what matters to you. You can try volunteering, doing internships, or shadowing someone at work for a day. You can also read about different careers online or watch webinars. The goal is to learn and try new things. Wishing you all the best.
When you talk to people in a field, it helps to have some questions ready. You can ask: "How did you start in this field?" or "What advice do you have for someone new?" You can also ask what their day-to-day work is like, what the hardest part of their job is, and what skills are most important. Another good question is: "What changes do you see happening in this field in the next few years?" Asking these kinds of questions shows you are interested and paying attention. Always listen carefully and try to make the conversation friendly, not just a list of questions.
If you don't know what to do with your future, you need to think about what you enjoy, what you are good at, and what matters to you. You can try volunteering, doing internships, or shadowing someone at work for a day. You can also read about different careers online or watch webinars. The goal is to learn and try new things. Wishing you all the best.
Alex Crispino
Inclusion Networks Senior Manager
21
Answers
Sayreville, New Jersey
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Hi!
First, when you're thinking about what field to study, think about what classes or situations at school get you excited or give you energy. I would write those down and keep a journal as you have new experiences. Also, what classes/assignments/projects drain your energy? Make note of those too.
I also think visualization is important too! Where do you want to live after you're finished with school? What are some of your bucket list items that you want to make happen? It's important to think about this too when selected a career.
You can use LinkedIn to search different careers. I would also recommend attending career fairs at local colleges too. You'll learn a lot and can ask questions! If there's aren't any to attend, you can look at different majors and see the classes you'd have to take. It's okay if you don't plan on attending the college you're looking at.
Once you decide on a path, networking is really important. You can attend industry events or local colleges might have some opportunities too. As far as questions to ask, get curious! What would you want to know about? My go-to is how they handle high stress situations and/or challenges.
First, when you're thinking about what field to study, think about what classes or situations at school get you excited or give you energy. I would write those down and keep a journal as you have new experiences. Also, what classes/assignments/projects drain your energy? Make note of those too.
I also think visualization is important too! Where do you want to live after you're finished with school? What are some of your bucket list items that you want to make happen? It's important to think about this too when selected a career.
You can use LinkedIn to search different careers. I would also recommend attending career fairs at local colleges too. You'll learn a lot and can ask questions! If there's aren't any to attend, you can look at different majors and see the classes you'd have to take. It's okay if you don't plan on attending the college you're looking at.
Once you decide on a path, networking is really important. You can attend industry events or local colleges might have some opportunities too. As far as questions to ask, get curious! What would you want to know about? My go-to is how they handle high stress situations and/or challenges.
Robyn Libertiny
1
Answer
Updated
Robyn’s Answer
Hi Ivalani!
Great question as it is always hard to find a place to start, here are a few thoughts on what may work for you.
Ways to meet people in your desired field:
- Attend industry events, conferences, or workshops.
- Join professional associations or online communities (e.g., LinkedIn groups).
- Reach out for informational interviews or seek internships/volunteering opportunities.
Good questions to ask about a field:
- What skills and qualifications are most important to succeed?
- What does a typical day or common challenges look like in this job?
- How did you get started, and what advice would you give to someone new?
Best first steps if you’re unsure about your future:
- Reflect on your interests and strengths or take career assessments.
- Explore different fields through classes, part-time work, or talking to professionals.
Best of luck!
Great question as it is always hard to find a place to start, here are a few thoughts on what may work for you.
Ways to meet people in your desired field:
- Attend industry events, conferences, or workshops.
- Join professional associations or online communities (e.g., LinkedIn groups).
- Reach out for informational interviews or seek internships/volunteering opportunities.
Good questions to ask about a field:
- What skills and qualifications are most important to succeed?
- What does a typical day or common challenges look like in this job?
- How did you get started, and what advice would you give to someone new?
Best first steps if you’re unsure about your future:
- Reflect on your interests and strengths or take career assessments.
- Explore different fields through classes, part-time work, or talking to professionals.
Best of luck!
Nicole C. Wong
2
Answers
Updated
Nicole C.’s Answer
LinkedIn is an easy and effective way to meet people in a field that you want to work in. Search LinkedIn for people who are writing Linkedin articles about that field and engage with their content -- react to it, comment on it, and reshare it with your own thoughts (perhaps one of your key takeaways from reading it or a question it stirred up in you). The author will appreciate it -- because we are all motivated to share our thought leadership with people who appreciate it -- and after you become a familiar name to them then you may want to message them saying you've read, commented, and shared #X of their articles and would appreciate the opportunity to chat with them for 15 minutes to learn more about their career journey and the field because you are interested in working in it.
James Scollick
Human Resources
4
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
James’s Answer
Some something I did while in college and early in my career was, I joined the Rotary Club. It's a professional group of local individuals from all sorts of different professional backgrounds. Most of the clubs meet like once a month and usually invite other professionals to come and share their working experiences. This really helped me learn about different fields of work as I was able to meet and hear directly from so many people in my area and what they did for work.
I know Rotary isn't the only club like this, so I'd encourage you to look for something that is maybe near your home at hours that are most convenient for you.
I know Rotary isn't the only club like this, so I'd encourage you to look for something that is maybe near your home at hours that are most convenient for you.
Caitlin Canton
Human Resources Manager
15
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Caitlin’s Answer
Hi Ivalani! It's great that you're thinking about this now. To connect with people in your desired field, try attending related events. Check if your school offers any opportunities, like a career night, to start building relationships. Research companies in your field to find those that match your values and interests. Look at their mission statements and philanthropic activities to see how they treat people.
Here are some good questions to ask:
1. How did you choose this field?
2. What do you enjoy most about your work?
3. What sources do you recommend for staying updated on trends or news in this area?
If you're unsure where to start, don't worry. You have plenty of time, and your interests might change once you begin working full-time. Look for networking events, join clubs related to your interests, or volunteer with organizations that share your values. Introduce yourself and learn from others to discover possible career paths. You'll do great!
Think about areas of interest for a potential career.
Research organizations within that field/fields to identify some that resonate with you.
Try to find ways to get involved or connected to other people.
Here are some good questions to ask:
1. How did you choose this field?
2. What do you enjoy most about your work?
3. What sources do you recommend for staying updated on trends or news in this area?
If you're unsure where to start, don't worry. You have plenty of time, and your interests might change once you begin working full-time. Look for networking events, join clubs related to your interests, or volunteer with organizations that share your values. Introduce yourself and learn from others to discover possible career paths. You'll do great!
Caitlin recommends the following next steps:
Shannon Zulauf
Risk & Independence
25
Answers
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Updated
Shannon’s Answer
A little late to the party here with all of these wonderful responses already!
Meeting people in your field doesn’t have to start with formal networking events. Many of the strongest connections come from curiosity and conversation, not job hunting.
Start close to where you already are:
- Your school – professors, guest speakers, alumni events, career panels
- Internships, part-time jobs, or campus involvement – even roles that aren’t directly related can introduce you to people with valuable perspectives
- Reaching out intentionally – it’s okay to message someone more senior and ask about their career path or experience
As your career progresses, networking becomes more formal—through conferences, client work, and professional organizations—but it still relies on the same underlying skills: communication, curiosity, and follow-through.
Some questions that I think are helpful in using curiosity to grow and network:
- What does a typical day look like?
- What surprised you most about your career?
- What was a hard decision that shaped your career path?
When you don’t know what you want to do, the best first step isn’t choosing a career—it’s gaining exposure. Careers are rarely linear. Clarity comes from movement, not having all the answers upfront. Every experience—even the ones that don’t feel perfect—becomes another tool in your belt.
If there’s one thing I’d emphasize, it’s this: you don’t need to have your future figured out to take a meaningful next step. Stay curious, build relationships, and trust that your path will come together over time.
Meeting people in your field doesn’t have to start with formal networking events. Many of the strongest connections come from curiosity and conversation, not job hunting.
Start close to where you already are:
- Your school – professors, guest speakers, alumni events, career panels
- Internships, part-time jobs, or campus involvement – even roles that aren’t directly related can introduce you to people with valuable perspectives
- Reaching out intentionally – it’s okay to message someone more senior and ask about their career path or experience
As your career progresses, networking becomes more formal—through conferences, client work, and professional organizations—but it still relies on the same underlying skills: communication, curiosity, and follow-through.
Some questions that I think are helpful in using curiosity to grow and network:
- What does a typical day look like?
- What surprised you most about your career?
- What was a hard decision that shaped your career path?
When you don’t know what you want to do, the best first step isn’t choosing a career—it’s gaining exposure. Careers are rarely linear. Clarity comes from movement, not having all the answers upfront. Every experience—even the ones that don’t feel perfect—becomes another tool in your belt.
If there’s one thing I’d emphasize, it’s this: you don’t need to have your future figured out to take a meaningful next step. Stay curious, build relationships, and trust that your path will come together over time.
Alex Shapero
Volunteer Event Host
18
Answers
Helsinki, Finland
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Hi Ivalini!
Lots of good advice here already, but one that has worked really well for me and many of my colleagues is coffee calls - you can think of them as informational interviews, but lots of professionals are used to this as a space where you can "pick people's brains" - ask questions about how they got to where they were, what steps they are happy with and what they would change, etc. The important thing is that you shouldn't use these ask a way to ask a job. It goes against the whole ethos. Instead, it's a way to share what you know and what you want to know.
Lots of good advice here already, but one that has worked really well for me and many of my colleagues is coffee calls - you can think of them as informational interviews, but lots of professionals are used to this as a space where you can "pick people's brains" - ask questions about how they got to where they were, what steps they are happy with and what they would change, etc. The important thing is that you shouldn't use these ask a way to ask a job. It goes against the whole ethos. Instead, it's a way to share what you know and what you want to know.
Sarah Koenig
Corporate Responsibility
26
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
Try using ChatGPT to find job titles in a field you're interested in. Then, check LinkedIn to see the experience of people in those roles. Another advantage of LinkedIn is that if you find someone in your network with relevant experience, you can contact them directly to learn more.
Danielle Bryan
Talent Acquisition Manager
3
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Danielle’s Answer
Hi Ivalani! Great question. Meeting people in the field you are interested in is a great way to build your network and learn more about the work. A lot of companies will attend career fairs at your school or will host events, presentations, etc. Going to events like this will often allow you to meet recruiters and/or professionals in the field. If you meet a campus recruiter, they can often can you connected to professionals in the line of work you are interested. I would recommend you speak with your campus career services team to learn more about dates of Career Fairs or if they know of specific companies coming to campus.
If you are unable to attend campus events due to your schedule, you can also look on company websites to see if the recruiter information is available. I would then encourage you to email the recruiter and ask for them to setup a phone call with you. From there you can ask to get connected to professionals in the field and learn more about upcoming events.
Lastly, the questions you ask will depend on the line of work you are seeking more information on. Some general helpful questions might be: Why did you choose this line of work?, What advice would you give to yourself when you were in my shoes?, What college course was the most beneficial to the work you are doing today?
Best of luck!
If you are unable to attend campus events due to your schedule, you can also look on company websites to see if the recruiter information is available. I would then encourage you to email the recruiter and ask for them to setup a phone call with you. From there you can ask to get connected to professionals in the field and learn more about upcoming events.
Lastly, the questions you ask will depend on the line of work you are seeking more information on. Some general helpful questions might be: Why did you choose this line of work?, What advice would you give to yourself when you were in my shoes?, What college course was the most beneficial to the work you are doing today?
Best of luck!
Alixandra Arroyo
Human Resources
5
Answers
Dix Hills, New York
Updated
Alixandra’s Answer
Try reaching out to people you meet daily and let them know you want to make new friends. This can create many opportunities for you, as these connections can introduce you to their own networks.
Hi Alixandra, I agree with this advice in general, but would add a few tweaks. For instance, reaching out to people they already know is great but they should be clear that they are looking for industry professionals to speak with, not necessarily friends. As a learner, this is an important distinction because it forces the other person to make thoughtful introductions (versus introducing this learner to their best friend, who is another student). For example, if the student is interested in becoming a doctor, they can ask their friends if they know any adults (like parents or other family members) who are doctors that they can speak with.
Gurpreet Lally, Admin
Lisa Burnison
Human Resources
6
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
To meet people, actively look for chances to network. You can do this through job fairs, LinkedIn, or local community events. One connection often leads to another. Don't be shy about reaching out and asking questions; people usually enjoy talking about their work. Remember, your first job doesn't have to be your last. Gaining experience is important. For example, I started as an accountant at a big firm, switched to HR after three years, and now, 30 years later, I'm in a leadership role in HR at the same company. Stay open to new opportunities, and keep asking questions. Good luck with your journey!
Brooke Morgenstern
Human Resources
4
Answers
Newtown, Pennsylvania
Updated
Brooke’s Answer
It's great that you're thinking about this! Networking is important, and getting started is a big step. Begin by checking out student organizations related to your major or field of interest on campus. Recent alumni are often eager to help, so don't hesitate to connect with them. Professors can also introduce you to helpful alumni. Use LinkedIn or other social media to reach out directly. Attending conferences or industry events is beneficial too, but starting with your school network is a smart move. Keep going, you're on the right path!
Kristen Dennis
Communications
3
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Kristen’s Answer
Hi, Ivalani! Try using LinkedIn to follow people in the career you want. If you feel okay with it, send them a message and ask if they have time to talk about their experiences. Many people enjoy helping and will be glad to chat with you! You can also join professional groups and go to networking events.
Sherry Anarella
Human Resources Manager
2
Answers
Webster, New York
Updated
Sherry’s Answer
Ask lots of questions and go to as many career days as you can to discover what interests you. Connect with professors, classmates, and people on LinkedIn. Look for volunteer opportunities. Talk to your parents, relatives, and friends to see if they can help you find people for informational interviews in your areas of interest.