Networking is a great strategy for finding a job or internship, yet it can sound intimidating. When you break it down, however, networking is two not-so-scary tasks: building relationships and sharing information. Relationship building with professionals is an essential step in career exploration and planning.
Networking is mutually beneficial. Offer your help, and share your experiences with others, too. And spread the wealth - connect your contacts!
Check out our handouts to get yourself more comfortable:
Start building your network with alumni. Visit the University of Minnesota page and check out where alumni are working and learn from their career paths. Connect with alumni and ask for advice as you begin entering your career. You can also search for fellow students and alumni on the Maroon and Gold Network, ask a question via chat or message, and get advice. Under the networking tab, you can use "more filters > help topics" to identify those willing to help you with job shadowing, informational interviews, and a lot more!
Try using Peer Messaging on Handshake to find and message students and alumni from the University of Minnesota, and all over the country, about the internships, jobs, clubs, and locations you can see on their profiles.