How impactful is networking?

I'm Shiloh, a 7th grader who hopes to pursue a career in aerospace and eventually become an astronaut. Currently I'm building my portfolio to get a scholarship that can boost my career.

Students are often encouraged to build strong networks, but it can be difficult to understand the real impact, in aerospace or any related fields, how much do professional relationships influence career opportunities, and in what ways? Are there any opportunities, mentors, internships, jobs, or projects that you likely would not have obtained without the relationships you built along the way?