Networking 101: Make the Future-You Proud

Photo by HIVAN ARVIZU on Unsplash

Networking 101: Make the Future-You Proud

So, you’ve been told to “grow your network” about a million times. Cool. Great. Fantastic advice. But here’s the problem—you’re just a student, right? You’re still figuring out how to pass calculus, let alone how to schmooze with industry professionals. How the heck do you start “networking” when your current social circle consists mostly of your roommates and that one guy who always borrows your notes?

Your First (and Easiest) Network: Your Classmates

Let’s start with the obvious: You’re literally surrounded by potential connections every day. Your classmates? Future doctors, lawyers, engineers, entrepreneurs—you name it. Right now, they might just be fellow victims of the brutal midterm season, but in a few years, they’ll be out in the workforce, doing cool things. And guess what? So will you.

Start small. Talk to people in your classes, your dorm, your study groups. Stay in touch. Ask what they’re planning for their summer internships, research, side gigs? You never know who might have an opportunity that’s perfect for you. And don’t just limit yourself to your major. The real magic happens when you connect with people from different fields.

LinkedIn: The Networking Cheat Code

Sure, Instagram and Snapchat are fun, but if you want to make Future-You proud, start building your LinkedIn now. That way, when you inevitably lose touch with your college friends IRL, you’ll still have a way to reach them when it matters. Plus, let’s be real—by the time you graduate, who knows what social media platform will be the new hot thing? (Remember Vine? Exactly.)

By the time you finish your degree, you should have at least 100 connections. Sounds like a lot? It’s really not. Your classmates, teacher's assistants, internship buddies, club members—all fair game. Just hit that “Connect” button, and you’re networking.

Networking isn't just for college students—it’s a lifelong strategy for career growth. If you're already in the workforce, building meaningful connections is key. Don’t hesitate to ask your colleagues, managers, and the professionals you meet at conferences and meetups to connect. A simple introduction can open doors to new opportunities, insights, and collaborations.

The “Eric” Effect: Why Diverse Connections Matter

Let me tell you about my friend Eric. Eric started as a computer science major and landed a job as a system engineer at a graphics manufacturing company. Pretty standard, right? Then, out of nowhere, he decided he wanted to be … a lawyer. (Yeah, I was confused too.)

Fast forward a few years—Eric becomes a top intellectual property lawyer, helping tech firms protect their patents. And guess what? When I built some cool algorithms and needed legal advice, I called up Eric. He broke down patent law for me like I was in fifth grade, and the best part? He didn’t charge me a dime - he's so kind and we still stay in touch! That’s the power of a strong, diverse network.

Final Thoughts: Start Now

Building a network isn’t about forcing awkward conversations at career fairs or spamming people with LinkedIn requests. It’s about making genuine connections with people around you. Future-You will thank you when you need career advice, a job lead, or—who knows—free legal guidance from a CS-grad-turned-lawyer like Eric.

So, go talk to that person sitting next to you in class. Add your study buddies on LinkedIn. Keep in touch. Because one day, you’ll be glad you did.