Career Development Resources
Networking Tips and Essentials
Networking is one of the most valuable skills you can develop during college.
It isn’t about asking people for a job. It’s about building genuine professional relationships, learning from others, exploring career paths, and discovering opportunities. Every conversation has the potential to help you grow personally and professionally.
What networking helps you do
- Learn about careers, industries, and employers.
- Explore career paths related to your major.
- Discover internships, research opportunities, and jobs.
- Build confidence communicating with professionals.
- Expand your professional network before graduation.
- Develop meaningful relationships that may support your career for years to come.
Who can be part of your network?
- Faculty and academic advisors
- Career Development staff
- Alumni
- Employers and recruiters
- Internship supervisors
- Classmates and student organization leaders
- Researchers and graduate students
- Community leaders and professionals
Networking tips for arts & sciences students
- Start early. You don’t have to wait until your senior year to build professional relationships.
- Attend career fairs, employer information sessions, workshops, and alumni events.
- Introduce yourself with confidence and be ready to talk about your interests and goals.
- Ask thoughtful questions about careers, industries, and experiences.
- Listen as much as you talk.
- Follow up with a thank-you email or LinkedIn connection request within 24–48 hours.
- Stay in touch by sharing updates and expressing appreciation.
- Focus on building relationships, not collecting business cards.
Conversation starters
“What do you enjoy most about your career?”
“How did you get started in your field?”
“What experiences helped prepare you for your current role?”
“What advice would you give a student interested in this field?”
“What skills are most important for someone entering this profession?”
Networking checklist
- Attend at least one networking event each semester.
- Introduce yourself to a faculty member or employer.
- Update your LinkedIn profile.
- Practice your elevator pitch.
- Follow up after meeting a professional.
- Keep track of professional contacts.
- Schedule a meeting with Eberly Career Development.
Networking is about creating authentic relationships, not asking for favors. Be curious, be professional, and be yourself.
The connections you make throughout your time at Eberly can lead to mentorship, internships, research experiences, graduate school opportunities, and future careers.
Need more help?
Whether you’re attending your first career fair or preparing to connect with alumni and employers, Eberly Career Development is here to help. Meet with a Career Development Coach for personalized networking strategies, conversation practice, LinkedIn guidance, and confidence-building tips tailored to your goals.