How to Build a Network
So much of your collegiate success and satisfaction is based on your connections across campus. Faculty, staff, advisors, teaching assistants, and peers can significantly impact your ability to succeed as those affiliations can deepen your learning and expand your opportunities. However, establishing relationships and fostering a robust network can be such an intimidating task you might not even try, and isolation will undoubtedly harm your mental health.
As vulnerable as it is to introduce yourself to others and use campus resources, you can take small steps to create meaningful connections in your lecture halls, in your dorm or apartment complex, and throughout your institution. Opportunities can be afforded to you as you expand your network to include people who are positively invested in your future.
Tips to Build a Robust Network on Campus
- Pay attention to who sits near the front of the lecture hall or classroom. Those students are usually the ones who are engaged and good to collaborate with. Introduce yourself and ask your peers lots of questions about themselves; social anxiety can be eased if you focus on learning about others rather than worrying about what you have to share about yourself.
- Meet your teaching assistants early in the term and ask them, “What are common mistakes students make in this class?” or “What are some things you’re glad you did to be successful in this class or with this professor?”
- Visit academic or specialty advisors (University Honors, Pre-Med, Athletic, International, etc.) early on and regularly. They can often help you navigate the unfamiliar waters of collegiate life and inform you of opportunities you wouldn’t know of otherwise (e.g., scholarships, international study programs, events, etc.).
- Attend informational fairs and events. Opening socials are common at the beginning of the term, so take advantage of them! Prepare easy conversation starters like, “What do you love about [insert program, event, topic, etc.]?” “What are you studying?” “Where are you from?” “What’s your favorite class you’re taking this semester?” “What book are you reading right now?”
- The more you practice, the easier it will be!
Do you need help building your network on your campus?
We can help! Your first consultation is FREE so you have nothing to lose!
