TIN #144 - The One Thing I Wish I Knew (About Networking) Before College
Start Networking in College NOW (Here’s How)
It’s graduation season. Speeches are flying. Advice is everywhere.
So here’s mine:
I wish someone had taught me how to network before I got to college.
Not “go to a career fair and hand out résumés” networking.
I mean real connection.
The kind that helps you build trusted relationships and opens doors for years to come.
This issue is for college students—and for the people who know them.
Share it with someone you care about who’s headed into the next chapter.
This issue takes about 5 minutes to read…
Before We Get Started:
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You’re Never Too Young to Learn to Network
When I talk to college and high school students about networking, I usually get the same confused look.
Why do I need this now?
The truth?
College is the perfect time to start building your network.
You’re surrounded by people—students, professors, professionals—who can help you.
You just have to learn how to connect with them.
Start With Who You Know
Most students think networking means talking to strangers at a career fair.
But the real power is in the people you already know.
Here’s where to look:
Upperclassmen. They’re one or two steps ahead. They’re getting internships. Interviewing. Landing jobs. They can tell you what it’s really like—and may even refer you to companies later on.
Classmates. Not just for study groups. Ask what they’re planning to do after school. Who they’re interning with. What companies they’re excited about. That information is gold.
Professors. Don’t just show up to class. Build relationships. Many professors have strong industry connections and are more than happy to introduce you—if they know you and what you're looking for.
Yes, You Should Be on LinkedIn
Another question I get:
When should I start a LinkedIn profile?
Answer: Now.
You don’t need a fancy résumé or a big job title. You just need to get started.
Why?
Because it takes time to build a profile, grow your network, and learn how to engage.
Start now, while you’re a student, and let your presence grow naturally.
Follow people in your field.
Ask questions.
Comment on posts.
People are usually happy to give advice to students—especially when you’re curious, respectful, and real.
You Have More to Offer Than You Think
A lot of students say, “I don’t have anything to give.”
That’s not true.
You bring a fresh perspective.
You know what people your age care about.
You’re learning the newest ideas in your field.
That’s all valuable.
When you talk to someone more experienced, share what you’re learning.
Ask if it matches what they see in their work.
You’d be surprised how much that kind of conversation helps them too.
Make It Easy for People to Help You
Want to know the secret to getting more introductions?
Be specific.
Create a short list of companies you're interested in.
You can start by reviewing the list of employers at your school’s career fair.
Then update it based on what your peers are doing and where your professors have contacts.
That way, when someone says, “How can I help?” you’ve got an answer.
“I’m really interested in these three companies. Do you know anyone who works at any of them?”
That’s how connections happen.
The 5 Step Networking Plan For College Students:
Start With Who You Know: Upperclassmen, Students in your major, Professors.
Have Real-Life Conversations: Get off the apps and have real conversations. Talk about more than classes or homework. Be intentional about this.
Listen and Give: Ask what others are working on. What are they excited about? Give them your ideas and perspectives on things
Be Easy To Help: Have a list of companies or people you’d like to be introduced to. When people ask “How can I help you,” show them your list.
Make This A Habit: Just like studying and going to class, make a plan to work on your LinkedIn profile, make connections, and have conversations. One a week, if possible. Stay consistent and keep going.
Bottom Line
If I could go back in time, I’d start networking way earlier—and I’d be way more intentional about it.
I accidentally built a network in college through student organizations.
That network helped me get my first job.
But I didn’t understand what I was doing at the time.
You don’t have to wait or wing it.
You can start now, with a plan.
If you know a college student, send them this issue.
If you are a college student, take one step this week.
Reach out to an upperclassman. Message a professor. Set up your LinkedIn.
And if you’re graduating—congratulations.
You’ve got a lot ahead of you.
Go meet some interesting people.
And remember: Always be connecting.
Finding clubs or hobbies that you enjoy can help make some of this a bit easier. It makes for a way to meet people that aren't directly connected to you through school or work.