Networking 101: My First College Networking Experience

I still remember my first networking event- I was a junior in college and participating in the Washington Center Internship program. The facility hosted a huge networking event to help interns connect with professionals in the political science world. I was so excited!?

I put on my most professional outfit, printed out a few copies of my resume and headed over to the event. I walked around for what felt like forever (but looking back it was probably more like ten minutes). Then suddenly, a thought popped into my head?

“ Why would these people want to meet you? They’re professionals and you’re a college student.”?

I suddenly felt silly for even being at the event- what interesting thing could I possibly say? So, I did what any person would do (or maybe just me?), I had a panic attack and left immediately.?

Looking Back...

Now, looking back at this moment five years later, I’ve realized something- it never mattered if I had the most exciting life or if I had the most impressive resume. The purpose of the event was so that people like me could meet professionals in the field and speak with them about potential career choices.

Although I did not realize this at the time, experienced professionals never expected interns to be as important in the field as they were- they were perfectly aware that we were students.?

Networking events have never been about being the most important person in the room- they are about one thing, and one thing only, making connections. The only thing you need to make connections is an interest in the topic being discussed, or an interest in what the other person does.?

If you’re not the most impressive career wise in that conversation, literally all it means is that the other person is not likely to ask you for a job, it definitely does not mean they do not want to talk to you. Believe me, everyone has been new in their field at some point and everyone there attended their first networking event at some point; they know what it’s like to be young and unestablished.?

Going Forward

Professionals at networking events are there to give you the chance to meet people in your preferred field so you can ask them questions (about how they got their career, what they do, what advice they may have; anything! ). If you are lucky you may get a career opportunity or make a connection that will later lead to an opportunity- otherwise, you still get something extremely invaluable: insight.?

Networking is a great way to get first-hand knowledge into a potential career path! You may find your goals are exactly what they should be- or you may discover a new path that aligns even better with what you want in your future. So, take a deep breath and walk into your first (or next) networking event with confidence- you never know what knowledge and opportunities may await.?

Top 3 Networking Tips

Heading into your first networking event? Coach Nadia shares three tips to make sure you feel prepared and confident when connecting with new people.

1. Research- Often, you are networking based on a common field or interest. Make sure you have done your research, Google for news/updates and get current on the field or interest that is most likely going to be discussed while networking. If you are a marketer for example, perhaps Google “trends in marketing” or check out the American Marketing Association blog for relevant thoughts and ideas circulating your field. Find ways people can connect with you and you with them!
2. Practice breathing- No matter if there are a thousand people in the room or 10, networking is a stressful and anxiety provoking experience for many people. Find a breathing guide or quick meditation on apps like Calm or Spotify and give yourself breaks throughout the event to focus on yourself, your body and your mind.
3. Quality vs. Quantity- If you go to a networking opportunity and walk away with 2-3 contacts of real value, that is a win. Focus on the quality of the connection over amassing loads of business cards. Your network is what ultimately helps connect you to jobs, offers recommendations and advocates for your candidacy in the job market- quality is always going to win out over quantity.

Lastly, have fun! Networking is a great way to meet new people. The further you get away from organized social opportunities in your life such as school or sports teams, the harder it is to make new connections. Be mentally present, emotionally available and genuinely interested in other people and you’ll do just fine with networking.

About the writer:

This piece was co-produced and written by Whitney Derman for Beyond Discovery Coaching. Learn more about Whitney below!

Hello my name’s Whitney! I’m a professional and creative writer ( blogging, news, screenplays, etc.). I graduated with degrees in Political Science and Global Studies. My areas of focus are non-profits and human rights, but I love to write and help people in any way possible! I encourage you to check out my writing?and connect with me on LinkedIn.