How to Network as a McKendree Student
Listen up, Bearcats! With a new semester ahead, there are new opportunities to start
making connections and forming your networks. You may be wondering, what is networking?
Networking provides a foundation for your future career and life after college by
simply making a connection with someone who shares a similar passion or aspirational
profession. While you’re at McKendree, there are many ways and resources to use to
start building your personal and professional platforms. Here are a few ways and strategies
to begin networking as a Bearcat:
Be Ready
First things first, be ready for any opportunity that could arise from interviews,
events, and even during class! Get ready by creating an organized system where you
can store and easily access any information you gather as well as handing out yours.
Keep an updated resume and/or business card on hand to readily share your information
whenever an opportunity may present itself. By being prepared and organized, you will
make a lasting impression!
Put Yourself Out There
We know it can be scary to put yourself out there and step outside your comfort zone,
but having confidence is key! Initiate a conversation with a student or professor
and discuss something that captured your interest. One conversation is all it takes
to build a firm foundation for a network. Having connections with those you encounter
along the way could open many doors and possibilities in your future.
Get Involved at McKendree
One of the best ways to network is to get in on the McKendree action! As a Bearcat,
there are many ways to get involved, from joining a club, picking up an extracurricular
activity, or participating in one of our many sports. There are many student organizations
and involvement opportunities that you can become a part of to make your mark!
Go to Career Services
Career Services, located in Clark Hall, is by far one of the best and most helpful resources to guide
you along the way as you begin networking. Career Services provides students with
training activities, programs and services, ranging from building a resume to securing
internships. Stop by today and plan to succeed!
Attend Events
Throughout the semester, there are many events you can attend that can branch out
your networks for your future. One of the most beneficial events to attend are career fairs. In fact, there is one coming up on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at the Hett from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm! Employers will be seeking potential candidates for open
and/or future positions at their companies and sharing their information so be sure
to come prepared with yours.
Now that you know a few ways and strategies on how you can network as a McKendree
student, be ready and brave like Bogey! All it takes is to put yourself out there,
get involved on campus and in the surrounding community. We believe in you, Bearcats,
and know your future will be bright!