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Sproutern

The Power of Networking: How to Build Professional Connections as a Student

Sproutern Team
October 12, 2025
10 min read

You’ve heard it a million times: “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” While that’s not entirely true (you still need the skills), networking is a powerful catalyst for your career. As a student, building a professional network can seem daunting, but it’s one of the most valuable investments you can make. Here’s how to get started.

1. Shift Your Mindset

Networking isn’t about schmoozing or asking for favors. It’s about building genuine relationships. Approach it with a sense of curiosity. Your goal is to learn from others, not just to get something from them. This mindset shift makes the process feel more authentic and less transactional.

2. Start with Your Existing Network

You already have a network. Start there.

  • Professors and Alumni: Your professors have industry connections, and your university’s alumni network is a goldmine. Don’t be afraid to ask for introductions.
  • Family and Friends: Let your family and friends know what you’re interested in. You never know who they might know.

3. Leverage LinkedIn Like a Pro

LinkedIn is your digital networking hub. Use it strategically.

  • Optimize Your Profile: A complete, professional profile is a must. (We have a whole guide on this!)
  • Personalize Connection Requests: When you send a connection request, always include a personalized note. Mention a mutual connection, a shared interest, or why you’d like to connect.
  • Engage with Content: Don’t just be a passive observer. Like, comment, and share content. It keeps you visible and shows you’re engaged in your industry.

4. Attend Events (Virtual and In-Person)

Career fairs, industry talks, and workshops are fantastic opportunities to meet people.

  • Do Your Research: Before an event, look at the list of attendees or companies. Have a few people in mind that you’d like to talk to.
  • Prepare Your Elevator Pitch: Be able to introduce yourself and your interests concisely and confidently.
  • Follow Up: If you have a good conversation with someone, connect with them on LinkedIn within 24 hours and reference your conversation.

5. The Magic of Informational Interviews

An informational interview is a casual conversation with someone in a field or company that interests you. It’s a low-pressure way to gather information and make a connection.

  • Be Respectful of Their Time: Ask for just 15-20 minutes.
  • Come Prepared with Questions: Ask about their career path, their experience at their company, and any advice they have for someone starting out.
  • Don’t Ask for a Job: The purpose is to learn, not to ask for an internship. If you make a good impression, they may offer to help you down the line.

6. Provide Value

Networking is a two-way street. Think about how you can help others, even as a student. Share an interesting article, offer to help with a project, or connect two people who might benefit from knowing each other. A reputation as a helpful person will serve you well.

A Note for Introverts

If the idea of networking makes you anxious, you’re not alone. Focus on quality over quantity. A few meaningful conversations are more valuable than a hundred superficial ones. One-on-one settings like informational interviews might be more comfortable for you than large events.

Conclusion

Building a professional network is a long-term game. It’s about planting seeds that may take years to grow. Be patient, be genuine, and be curious. The connections you make today will be the foundation of your career tomorrow.