How to Network and Build Connections While You’re Still Studying

Simple ways to stand out, get potential references and meet industry connections while you’re still studying.

This article is part of our series 'What You Wish You Knew as a Student'. You might find in-article games where you could play to win. To read more articles from this series and find more games, head here.

A big part of getting the career you’re after isn’t just completing a uni degree or getting work experience. It’s also important to get your foot in the door early and try to meet people in the industry you want to work in.

If you want to build a strong professional network while you’re still studying, you can actively participate in campus life, utilise uni resources and be proactive by connecting with tutors and attending events.

The person you meet in passing at an even could end up playing a role in your future career.

How can I get started?

One of the best ways to meet new people while at uni is through clubs and organisations. This is a great way to meet others who are studying a similar degree to you or people that have similar interests.

It’s a great way to make new friends who could potentially become your colleagues or even future leaders in your field. Plus, uni clubs will often host networking events that could lead to internship or even job opportunities which potentially add experience to your resume.

Approach your tutors, lecturers and academics.

It can be a bit intimidating at first to talk to tutors about career or internship opportunities but remember – they’re there to help you and it can be super rewarding talking to people who are working in or have worked in your dream role.

Plus, they can offer valuable industry insights. You can also try reaching out to experience professionals for one-on-one guidance.

Inquire about potential jobs.

Email or call any businesses or companies that interest you and ask around about internship or career opportunities they have. Ask them what kind of skills they’re looking for, any grad jobs available or even just to reach out for some potential freelance work – depending on what kind of job you’re after.

Attend networking events.

You can attend networking events even if you’re not a part of that specific club. Heaps of universities or TAFES host a wide range of networking events open to all students to meet new people, learn new skills and get you career ready before you graduate. Keep an eye out for local networking events within your discipline where you live as well.

These events are designed to help students connect with professionals, alumni, and other students, offering valuable opportunities to build your network and explore potential career paths.

Build your online presence.

Make a LinkedIn profile if you don’t have one already or a website with your portfolio (if it’s helpful for the field you want to go into like something creative) to show off your achievements and connect online with others in your field.

Don’t know where to start with building a portfolio? No stress, we can help you out.

Your networking efforts while in uni will give you so many contacts to reach out to after uni. Networking can be powerful tool for your career growth while in uni that can be scary at first but so rewarding!