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What are some tips to building a professional network while still in college?

I am preparing to enter the career world in a few years and would love any advice on how to network best! #Spring26

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Thank you comment icon Build your network early by being curious, consistent, and genuine. Start with professors, alumni, career services, student org leaders, and internship supervisors—those are the easiest low-pressure places to practice. Ask for short conversations, not jobs, and come prepared with 2–3 thoughtful questions about their path, the skills they value, and what they wish they knew in college. Follow up with a thank-you note, keep a simple list of contacts, and reconnect occasionally with updates or a relevant article. The goal is not collecting names; it’s building real relationships before you need them. Kathy Klock
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Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer

Start building your professional network in college by talking with professors, classmates, and guest speakers, and following up with them regularly in a simple way. Joining clubs, student organizations, volunteering, hackathons, conferences, and industry events helps you meet people in both casual and professional settings, and working together or seeing each other often naturally strengthens connections; in many cases, casual acquaintances open more doors than close friends.

Use LinkedIn to connect with people in your field, keep messages short and personal, and treat internships or part-time jobs as opportunities to build real relationships with coworkers and supervisors. You can also ask for informational interviews, stay in occasional contact, and organize your connections so follow-ups are easy. Once trust is built, it’s appropriate to ask for referrals or introductions when needed. Focus on a few genuine relationships, offer help without expecting anything in return, and stay curious about your field.
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Marty’s Answer

You can start building a network by simply reaching out to people - students, teachers, neighbors - and using social media in a professional capacity such as Linked In. Industry conferences and trade shows are also a great place to meet like-minded people. Every contact is a great addition to your network.
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Wendy’s Answer

Focus on building real connections by working together to solve problems. Get involved in your local community and see how you can help. This network will be both rewarding and effective.
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Andreea’s Answer

Building a professional network in college doesn’t have to be complicated—it often starts with the people already around you, like classmates, professors, alumni, and internship contacts. From there, you can slowly expand by attending career events and using online platforms. A strong LinkedIn profile is especially important, as it’s your professional online presence and makes it easier for recruiters and connections to find you and engage with your experience. At the same time, exploring job search engines tailored to your location or industry can help you uncover local opportunities you might not otherwise see. Focus on making meaningful connections by having genuine conversations, asking thoughtful questions, and following up after meetings. Being reliable, curious, and personable goes a long way in turning early connections into lasting professional relationships.
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Adam’s Answer

There are many exciting ways to start building your professional network before you enter the job market.

Begin by exploring opportunities right on your campus. Join clubs or business fraternities that host keynote speakers and professional development events. Many successful professionals return to their schools to speak, so take advantage of these events. Ask questions and introduce yourself to the speakers before or after their talks. Follow up with a LinkedIn message to thank them or ask another question. Remember, not everyone will respond, but stay positive and keep reaching out to others!
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Lewis’s Answer

Hi Julia,
After updating your resume and LinkedIn profile, I would recommend connecting with your career services office. They can help you connect with employers when they visit your campus or share roles that may be open to students from your school.
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Jin’s Answer

Join department events like literary talks, guest lectures, poetry readings, and workshops. Get involved in honors societies such as Sigma Tau Delta for English. You can also take part in student panels or undergraduate conferences.
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