9 answers
Michelle
Student
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
1
Question
Asked
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How can a first-year computer science student start networking professionally without experience ?
I’m a first-year Computer Science student who is interested in personal growth, networking, and building a professional presence early. I’m currently trying to improve how I communicate in professional settings and become more comfortable connecting with new people. I’d appreciate any advice or experiences you can share.
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9 answers
Jennifer Popovic
Public Relations
1
Answer
White Plains, New York
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
I worked on the public relations side of tech recruiting for many years - having a pulse on the job market and through conversations with hiring managers has helped me understand what employers are looking for from new hires - especially new grads.
Anything that can help boost your portfolio/resume plus give you client service experience will do you wonders. If there's any way to do any freelance or pro-bono work where you can use your skills but also interact with clients will be helpful. Offer to use your skills or take on new challenges with family or friends when you can. You want to constantly and consistently write and communicate - have phone calls AND write thorough follow-up emails. This sounds simple, but being able to present yourself well in every form of communication is vital to standing out!
But also see the opportunity in every interaction you have in your daily life - practice writing through emails to professors, family and friends, pick up the phone to make appointments or reservations - every mundane interaction is an opportunity to build these skills which are not innate but rather built over time. Good luck!
Anything that can help boost your portfolio/resume plus give you client service experience will do you wonders. If there's any way to do any freelance or pro-bono work where you can use your skills but also interact with clients will be helpful. Offer to use your skills or take on new challenges with family or friends when you can. You want to constantly and consistently write and communicate - have phone calls AND write thorough follow-up emails. This sounds simple, but being able to present yourself well in every form of communication is vital to standing out!
But also see the opportunity in every interaction you have in your daily life - practice writing through emails to professors, family and friends, pick up the phone to make appointments or reservations - every mundane interaction is an opportunity to build these skills which are not innate but rather built over time. Good luck!
Alex Crispino Sammon
Inclusion Networks Senior Manager
26
Answers
Sayreville, New Jersey
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Hi Michelle! Great question! Even adults find networking challenging. Check out student organizations that may host networking events. It doesn't have to be related to your major. You'll gain practice and meet new people. Your student center likely has information on these events.
Edie Kissko
Corp Comm
2
Answers
San Mateo, California
Updated
Edie’s Answer
Join Toastmasters (local group) for public speaking experience
Oh okay, thanks a lot
Michelle
Infant R
2
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Infant’s Answer
A few practical tips for achieving your goals:
Practice professional communication regularly: Participate in class discussions, student organizations, and online communities related to technology.
Build a LinkedIn profile early: Share projects, coursework, certifications, and achievements as you progress.
Attend networking events: University events, hackathons, tech meetups, and webinars are great places to meet peers and professionals.
Work on small projects: Personal projects often create natural conversation starters and demonstrate your skills.
Practice professional communication regularly: Participate in class discussions, student organizations, and online communities related to technology.
Build a LinkedIn profile early: Share projects, coursework, certifications, and achievements as you progress.
Attend networking events: University events, hackathons, tech meetups, and webinars are great places to meet peers and professionals.
Work on small projects: Personal projects often create natural conversation starters and demonstrate your skills.
Ryun Bradfield
Software Architect/Engineer and Product Managert
5
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Ryun’s Answer
There is a strong demand for computer science professionals who can communicate and network well. Get involved in activities like hackathons and join professional clubs. You can also find projects on GitHub to contribute to. Focus on improving your teamwork skills, and you will succeed.
okay, thank you.
Michelle
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2575
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know you would like to do more networking.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Attend some classes in college on communication and networking classes to learn some techniques
2. Join the course related clubs and events to start elaboration
3. Explore any professional bodies on Computer Science in your region and country. Join as student member and attend the events
4. Attend professional seminars and take the opportunities to network with other professionals
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Attend some classes in college on communication and networking classes to learn some techniques
2. Join the course related clubs and events to start elaboration
3. Explore any professional bodies on Computer Science in your region and country. Join as student member and attend the events
4. Attend professional seminars and take the opportunities to network with other professionals
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Amen. Thank you very much.
Michelle
Liza Po
Business Planner, Program Manager
7
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Liza’s Answer
Hi Michelle, keep increasing your network from different professions. Engage, listen and observe these professionals - how they act, speak and able to apply themselves. Being on the receiving end, how good or not good are they in articulating and expressing themselves and their points to you. Leverage best practices, build upon the good and use as your foundation - learn the pillars of good storytelling
Okay, thank you.
Michelle
Grace Pisano
Editor
8
Answers
Norwalk, Connecticut
Updated
Grace’s Answer
Great question, Michelle. First: start locally! Your college probably has a lot of opportunities and resources: student clubs and associations, alumni events, classes or seminars on professional speaking and networking, etc. Also look for volunteer opportunities in your area - even a few hours a week will give you hands-on experience within your chosen field. Perhaps talk to your professors or the career development office (or volunteer coordinators, if your school/community has those kind of resources) to identify volunteer opportunities. Within school clubs, too, there's often a need for computer science people to help with record keeping, administrative work, etc. So look around you and talk to people about how to get involved within your school or community - it doesn't have to be a huge time commitment, but to carve out even a few hours a week to get this kind of practical experience will be a definite plus!
Renu Sharma
3
Answers
Updated
Renu’s Answer
That’s a great idea — and honestly, starting early gives you a huge advantage. Communication and relationship-building skills are incredibly important in the workplace, regardless of your technical background.
I’d recommend getting involved in professional communities early on by attending conferences, joining student or industry groups, volunteering at events, or participating in hackathons and networking meetups. Those experiences help you build confidence, meet new people, learn from professionals, and start growing your network naturally.
Good luck!
I’d recommend getting involved in professional communities early on by attending conferences, joining student or industry groups, volunteering at events, or participating in hackathons and networking meetups. Those experiences help you build confidence, meet new people, learn from professionals, and start growing your network naturally.
Good luck!
Thank you very much.
Michelle
I completely agree with this advice from Renu. In addition to getting involved in professional communities early, I also recommend creating and maintaining a strong LinkedIn profile, and connecting with classmates, professors, alumni, and professionals in fields you're interested in to help you start building a professional presence.
Other ideas include attending career fairs/networking events; joining clubs or organizations at school related to tech, leadership, or professional development; looking for a mentor (professor/upperclassman/industry professional); as well as working on personal projects or build a portfolio/GitHub to showcase your skills and interests.
Laura Burns