13 answers
Chelsea
Student
Moline
1
Question
Updated
485 views
How do I start networking as someone who is preparing to go to college?
I'm going into business management, and I'm trying to gain experience and prepare for the future, but I feel like a lot of opportunities (internships, jobs, other experiences, etc.) are based off of connections. How can I improve my connections both now and while I attend college?
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13 answers
Jason Xu
Consultant
6
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Use LinkedIn and your alumni network to reach out and request virtual coffee chats. You might not get every meeting you ask for, but it's important to try. Many people are happy to share their experiences and advice.
Sowmya N
IT
2
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Sowmya’s Answer
LinkedIn is a fantastic place to make new connections. If you already have an account, that's great—start building your network. If not, create an account to begin connecting with others. This will benefit you both as a student and as a growing professional.
Thank you, Sowmya!
Chelsea
Guillermo Martinez
Manager
2
Answers
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Updated
Guillermo’s Answer
You’re right—many internships and opportunities come from connections, but the good news is you can start building those before you even set foot on campus. Start With What You’re Already Doing
Most advice around networking focuses on:
Volunteering
Clubs and student organizations
Campus events and career fairs
Part-time jobs or internships
All of those are great starting points—and they work because they put you in front of people. The key is what you do after you meet them.
Use LinkedIn to Turn Meetings Into Relationships
My recommendation is to actively use LinkedIn to extend those in‑person interactions.
After you meet someone through your networking send a LinkedIn connection request within a day or two.
Keep it simple:
Mention where you met
Thank them for the conversation
No need to ask for a job right away
This small step turns a brief interaction into a long‑term connection.
Most advice around networking focuses on:
Volunteering
Clubs and student organizations
Campus events and career fairs
Part-time jobs or internships
All of those are great starting points—and they work because they put you in front of people. The key is what you do after you meet them.
Use LinkedIn to Turn Meetings Into Relationships
My recommendation is to actively use LinkedIn to extend those in‑person interactions.
After you meet someone through your networking send a LinkedIn connection request within a day or two.
Keep it simple:
Mention where you met
Thank them for the conversation
No need to ask for a job right away
This small step turns a brief interaction into a long‑term connection.
Thank you, Guillermo!
Chelsea
Jennifer Judy
Enablement, Sales, Data
3
Answers
Milpitas, California
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Chelsea, starting out can absolutely feel overwhelming and you don't know where to start. There are so many resources you can tap in to - like LinkedIn. This is a great tool where you can explore jobs, professions, sign up for free webinars to learn more about a given topic. Explore areas that seem interesting you and your career path. As you gain more insights, you may find yourself leaning towards specific jobs. Connect with individuals. Send them messages and ask to gain more knowledge from them as a young adult. You may be surprised how many people would be open to talk with you. Use these connects and your exploration of companies, jobs, skills ect... to look for potential internship opportunities.
Don't be afraid to also tap into friends and family and their networks to learn more about a specific role, company or job. Be persistent!
Don't be afraid to also tap into friends and family and their networks to learn more about a specific role, company or job. Be persistent!
Thanks for the advice.
Chelsea
Francie Starnes
CEO emeritus
9
Answers
New Jersey, New Jersey
Updated
Francie’s Answer
I completely agree with the comprehensive answers above.
My additional advice would be to get involved with volunteer opportunities at college and this summer at home. It’s a win-win situation for everyone. I have met extraordinary people doing volunteer work including many successful executives.
Set yourself apart: invest in some high quality note cards with your full name on top. When you meet someone you would like to network with write them a handwritten note. I promise you they will never forget you! The note should be short, to the point and reference where you met them. Close with a next step such as it was very interesting to hear about your career I would very much appreciate the opportunity to stay in touch.
Good luck and much happiness & success in college and your career.
Research volunteer opportunities in your community
Research volunteer opportunities at college
Purchase quality note cards for follow up notes to send to executives you meet.
My additional advice would be to get involved with volunteer opportunities at college and this summer at home. It’s a win-win situation for everyone. I have met extraordinary people doing volunteer work including many successful executives.
Set yourself apart: invest in some high quality note cards with your full name on top. When you meet someone you would like to network with write them a handwritten note. I promise you they will never forget you! The note should be short, to the point and reference where you met them. Close with a next step such as it was very interesting to hear about your career I would very much appreciate the opportunity to stay in touch.
Good luck and much happiness & success in college and your career.
Francie recommends the following next steps:
Thank you, this is amazing!
Chelsea
Eddy H
Consultant
56
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Eddy’s Answer
It is great that you are already thinking about networking because it is one of the most effective ways to take ownership of your career early on. When you get to college, make an effort to attend career fairs since they are one of the easiest ways to meet recruiters and professionals, and even if a conversation feels small it can sometimes lead to introductions to people within a company if you show genuine interest.
Starting now, you can also begin using LinkedIn by reaching out in a low pressure way, such as asking thoughtful questions about someone’s role or requesting a short video call to learn about their experience, which helps you build confidence over time.
Additionally, many companies host recruiting events specifically for universities, so when you attend those it is important not just to show up but to follow up and stay in touch with the people you meet. The key is to approach networking as building genuine relationships rather than just asking for opportunities, and if you stay consistent with small efforts over time, those connections will naturally grow and open doors for internships and future roles.
Starting now, you can also begin using LinkedIn by reaching out in a low pressure way, such as asking thoughtful questions about someone’s role or requesting a short video call to learn about their experience, which helps you build confidence over time.
Additionally, many companies host recruiting events specifically for universities, so when you attend those it is important not just to show up but to follow up and stay in touch with the people you meet. The key is to approach networking as building genuine relationships rather than just asking for opportunities, and if you stay consistent with small efforts over time, those connections will naturally grow and open doors for internships and future roles.
Thank you for the advice, Eddy.
Chelsea
Brendan Smith
Tax M&A
2
Answers
Cincinnati, Ohio
Updated
Brendan’s Answer
Check your college website for a list of clubs before you start. When you arrive, you'll find many welcome week events and information about what's available. There are clubs and Greek organizations focused on business, but consider joining anything that interests you, even if it's new to you. Getting involved will help you make connections.
Krystal Saldivar
Circulation Specialist
4
Answers
Beeville, Texas
Updated
Krystal’s Answer
Hello Moline,
I would try to reach out to your college institution, if you are a current college student or taking dual credit classes. I would ask to see if they may have any work-study jobs in the business office for students to get the feel of the business aspect and knowing more a less what they do, how you can help, and if it’s something you would still be interested in.
I would try to reach out to your college institution, if you are a current college student or taking dual credit classes. I would ask to see if they may have any work-study jobs in the business office for students to get the feel of the business aspect and knowing more a less what they do, how you can help, and if it’s something you would still be interested in.
Thank you, Krystal!
Chelsea
Shawndra Winter
Content Strategist, Organizational Development
22
Answers
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Updated
Shawndra’s Answer
Hi - Great question! A good way to start now is by talking to people you already have access to. That could be teachers, coaches, family friends, neighbors, alumni from your high school, or anyone you know who works in business. You do not have to ask them for a job. Just ask simple questions about what they do, how they got started, and what advice they would give someone entering business management. That alone helps you practice professional conversations.
Once you get to college, the biggest mistake is waiting until junior or senior year to start connecting with people. Go early to career fairs, join business-related clubs, attend guest speaker events, introduce yourself to professors, and actually visit the career center. A lot of opportunities come from people remembering you as someone engaged, curious, and reliable.
Another important part of networking is your reputation. Show up on time, be respectful, follow through, and say thank you. A strong reputation creates opportunities because people are more likely to recommend someone they trust and enjoy working with.
So really, the goal is not to “collect connections.” It is to build a small group of real relationships that can grow over time.
Once you get to college, the biggest mistake is waiting until junior or senior year to start connecting with people. Go early to career fairs, join business-related clubs, attend guest speaker events, introduce yourself to professors, and actually visit the career center. A lot of opportunities come from people remembering you as someone engaged, curious, and reliable.
Another important part of networking is your reputation. Show up on time, be respectful, follow through, and say thank you. A strong reputation creates opportunities because people are more likely to recommend someone they trust and enjoy working with.
So really, the goal is not to “collect connections.” It is to build a small group of real relationships that can grow over time.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Chelsea
Katrina Olson
Marketing, Advertising, Communications, Writing, Business
10
Answers
Urbana, Illinois
Updated
Katrina’s Answer
While it is true that many opportunities are based on connections, so start making them now. Connect with people on LinkedIn, and better yet, in person. Whenever alumni come back to speak at a workshop, or guest lectures in a class, be sure to attend. Introduce yourself afterwards, say hello, ask a question, and ask if you can connect with them on LinkedIn. Ask for a business card.
When you're assigned interview projects for class, don't ask your dad's best friend. Instead, find a company you're interested in or may want to work for and contact someone there. They'll likely be flattered. There's another connection for you.
Talk to the man sitting next to you at the football game, in the concession line, at the gym. Get off your phone and interact with people. You'll never know who you might meet. I've made connections by chatting with my seatmate on an airplane. Be open to opportunities.
As your instructors if they know someone you can meet. Be specific about your interests. And be sure to make a good impression in class by first, showing up. Participate in class, ask intelligent questions, and take the subject matter seriously. Hand in assignments on time. Don't be a whiner. Don't ask for extensions. Attend office hours.
Practice your "small talk" beyond weather and last night's game. Read books and be an interesting and knowledgeable person. Keep current on the news. Know what's going on in the world and how it impacts your field of study.
It's not just about who you know, you have to be a good candidate as well.
When you're assigned interview projects for class, don't ask your dad's best friend. Instead, find a company you're interested in or may want to work for and contact someone there. They'll likely be flattered. There's another connection for you.
Talk to the man sitting next to you at the football game, in the concession line, at the gym. Get off your phone and interact with people. You'll never know who you might meet. I've made connections by chatting with my seatmate on an airplane. Be open to opportunities.
As your instructors if they know someone you can meet. Be specific about your interests. And be sure to make a good impression in class by first, showing up. Participate in class, ask intelligent questions, and take the subject matter seriously. Hand in assignments on time. Don't be a whiner. Don't ask for extensions. Attend office hours.
Practice your "small talk" beyond weather and last night's game. Read books and be an interesting and knowledgeable person. Keep current on the news. Know what's going on in the world and how it impacts your field of study.
It's not just about who you know, you have to be a good candidate as well.
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Chelsea
Joe Seegars
Business Planning
8
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Great question to be asking now. I will try not repeat the good answers already given.
Once you know where you want to go to college, look for alumni in your community that you can talk to about the major(s) you’re interested in. Most alumni love to talk about their college. Admissions should be able to help you.
Once you get to college, take some time to get comfortable with the environment. Don’t try to do everything day 1. This is a big change.
Build your network organically at college by joining organizations and participating in activities you’re interested in.
Get advice from professors that are in your field or you connect with. And be the kind of student professors want in class - go to every class, come prepared, participate productively.
I would advise you not to start looking for internships as soon as you arrive on campus. With two children in and recently graduated from highly selective colleges, their experience suggests that freshmen are unlikely to be successful in finding summer internships, as the process is geared toward soph and juniors. And trying too hard could be counter-productive.
I would advise you to consider getting a part-time job after 1 or 2 semesters. Work experience looks great on your resume, and having a reference will help when you do apply for internships or jobs. If you can find a job in the department of your major or career services, that much better.
If you’re interested in Greek life, a sorority can be a great way to make connections with members and their parents.
College is a marathon, not a sprint. Set goals (I want to try 5 groups and join 2 this semester), create a plan with some weekly or bi-weekly milestones. But have fun. Getting involved with some intentionality will help you take advantage of what your college has to offer.
Good luck!
Once you know where you want to go to college, look for alumni in your community that you can talk to about the major(s) you’re interested in. Most alumni love to talk about their college. Admissions should be able to help you.
Once you get to college, take some time to get comfortable with the environment. Don’t try to do everything day 1. This is a big change.
Build your network organically at college by joining organizations and participating in activities you’re interested in.
Get advice from professors that are in your field or you connect with. And be the kind of student professors want in class - go to every class, come prepared, participate productively.
I would advise you not to start looking for internships as soon as you arrive on campus. With two children in and recently graduated from highly selective colleges, their experience suggests that freshmen are unlikely to be successful in finding summer internships, as the process is geared toward soph and juniors. And trying too hard could be counter-productive.
I would advise you to consider getting a part-time job after 1 or 2 semesters. Work experience looks great on your resume, and having a reference will help when you do apply for internships or jobs. If you can find a job in the department of your major or career services, that much better.
If you’re interested in Greek life, a sorority can be a great way to make connections with members and their parents.
College is a marathon, not a sprint. Set goals (I want to try 5 groups and join 2 this semester), create a plan with some weekly or bi-weekly milestones. But have fun. Getting involved with some intentionality will help you take advantage of what your college has to offer.
Good luck!
I appreciate your support, Joe
Chelsea
Emily Wyatt
Learning & Development
1
Answer
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Emily’s Answer
You are so right that connections are important. Don't be afraid to start a conversation or ask questions. If you see someone doing something you would like to do ask how they pursued the opportunity. I've found that most people are happy to chat. Quick example, my junior year in college I was in class with a lady who mentioned where she was interning. I was immediately interested and asked how she was able to do that. She connected me with the career counselor she had worked with who had a connection and the next year I was able to interview and secure a spot. No harm in asking!
Cynthia Thompson
Higher Education Professional
15
Answers
Springfield, Illinois
Updated
Cynthia’s Answer
To start building connections, take every chance to meet new people. Colleges often have a "Welcome Week" during the first week of classes with events to help you meet students, faculty, and staff. Attend these events and introduce yourself. Look into student organizations, especially those related to business administration, but also explore other interests to meet a diverse group of people. This can help you discover new career paths. Internships usually start in your sophomore year, so focus first on activities and meeting others. Consider student jobs on campus, as they offer great networking opportunities, even if they aren't directly related to your major.
Thank you so much, Cynthia!
Chelsea