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How can I make the most of college if I’m not naturally outgoing or confident in social settings?
I’m an incoming college freshman intending to study architecture, and I’ve heard that networking is especially important in that field when it comes to finding good opportunities. I’m not necessarily shy, but I do tend to feel very self-conscious when interacting with others, which can make me come across as awkward. Because of this, I worry that I’ll struggle with networking in college—not only because I’m unsure where to start, but also because I’m hesitant to put myself in new social situations. I want to learn how to step out of my comfort zone, build connections and figure out where and how to actually start networking.
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Chris’s Answer
I struggled with this myself when starting college Kailah so I totally get it.
The one thing I learned over the years is being comfortable with social situations and navigating them is just like any other skill you might learn - the more you do it, the easier it becomes. I made a rule with myself when I entered college - I'd always say yes any social invite or networking event I stumbled upon. It was a hard rule to follow at times and resulted in me feeling awkward. But if you stick with it and slowly develop more social skills and more familiarity with social situations, it becomes much much easier.
The other thing I would encourage as you head to college is to find a club to join. Clubs can be great to build really deep relationships that last past college. Just make sure you don't wait to join! All the incoming freshmen like yourself are in the same boat and now is the best time to make new friends and relationships.
Finally, while it sounds cliche, be yourself. Talk about the things that interest you and listen to the interests of others. Best of luck!
The one thing I learned over the years is being comfortable with social situations and navigating them is just like any other skill you might learn - the more you do it, the easier it becomes. I made a rule with myself when I entered college - I'd always say yes any social invite or networking event I stumbled upon. It was a hard rule to follow at times and resulted in me feeling awkward. But if you stick with it and slowly develop more social skills and more familiarity with social situations, it becomes much much easier.
The other thing I would encourage as you head to college is to find a club to join. Clubs can be great to build really deep relationships that last past college. Just make sure you don't wait to join! All the incoming freshmen like yourself are in the same boat and now is the best time to make new friends and relationships.
Finally, while it sounds cliche, be yourself. Talk about the things that interest you and listen to the interests of others. Best of luck!
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Henry’s Answer
Hi Kailah,
There are a number of ways to be a great professional; network savvy happens to be one of them. The other ways have to do with being a technical designer, construction advisor, or project manager. These ways require hard skills that will attract more opportunities than networking (and also the jobs you’re looking for)!
There are a number of ways to be a great professional; network savvy happens to be one of them. The other ways have to do with being a technical designer, construction advisor, or project manager. These ways require hard skills that will attract more opportunities than networking (and also the jobs you’re looking for)!