Benefits of networking in college | Plus 7 powerful networking tips!

Benefits of networking in college | Plus 7 powerful networking tips!

The benefits of networking in college life are uncontested. For folks who are studying abroad, the importance of networking increases manifold. You are in a foreign land where any good connections you build, will always help you. Whether it’s receiving help in a time of need, or professional growth, making connections by using valuable networking tips and recognizing the benefits of networking is always of utmost importance. 

Benefits of networking in college

Although there are many motives for people networking in college, we think these benefits highlight the importance of networking in college- 

Networking eases your assimilation into the new environment

No matter how much we tout about the world being a global village, there are still stark differences between the cultural values, languages, and norms of one country and another. This is the reason why many students experience culture shock when they travel abroad for studies in other countries. 

Here, networking can act as a shock absorber. When you talk to people and strive to learn about their culture and values, this societal transition gets easier. 

Your support system in a foreign land

Most students that study abroad, do so alone, without their immediate family members or friends around. In such cases, having a good group of local friends or well-wishers around you is always a comfort. They are your immediate support system while you study abroad and can always readily help in the time of your need.

Gain a different perspective

The primary reason we go to study abroad is to grow. We want to learn how to be independent, thoughtful, and creative. This can only happen if we meet people who are as interested in learning new things as we are. And because they come from a different background, they will always have something to teach. The shift in perspective they have to offer will help us get a better idea of how the world works.

It helps with future job hunting

Having connections in alumni and acquaintances in the faculty may seem a bit of overwork for now. However, it will pay off dearly during the time of the job hunt. Knowing the right people, at the right positions, at the right time, is a recipe for scoring the job of your choice and this is only possible with the power of networking.

Build confidence

Going to a foreign land, entering into a prestigious university, and striking up a conversation with a random person is not easy. It requires guts. And the more you do it, the less scared you will be the next time. Networking helps you build confidence in the best way possible. And at the end of the day, it is this confidence that will make people hire you, give you important projects, and skyrocket your career!

Networking tips while studying abroad

Networking in college is not a separate task from your studies. As you proceed with your degree, act on these networking tips and you will be able to build an impressive network by the end of it.

1. Let your social media be your friend

Your social media profiles are a direct reflection of your life. However, the fact remains that people only see what you want them to. Displaying your academic interests, volunteer activities, etc. will cast your profiles in a good light and help you find the right people going forward. Networks such as LinkedIn are the perfect blend of B2B communication and social media. Here you can not only connect with various influential people but also, engage and interact with them.

2. Go places

Joining social media has one more perk – it can help you find events and workshops happening near you. So, you can pick which conerts, classes, food festivals, and workshops you want to go to. The people you meet there will not only share your interests but also have so many of their own experiences to tell!

3. Recognize the importance of your alumni

It’s important that your understand the power of networking and attend seminars, workshops, and other networking events. Go to your college’s alumni meetups and interact with them. They can provide ample guidance on both academic and professional fronts.

4. Have a good working relationship with professors

College professors can be a gateway to the professional world. Their years of experience in a particular field and industry connections can come in really useful at the time of job scavenging. You can also make one particular teacher/professor your professional mentor.  Attend all the classes, make notes and ask questions and you will be able to muster a good working relationship with your professor(s).

5. Join groups and clubs

 From different student clubs to alumni groups, you can get access to many circles of people with the same interests and aspirations on social media. So, join the ones that you deem closer to your interests and professional requirements and actively participate in them. This way, introvert individuals who otherwise face difficulties are also able to do better networking.

6. Let your curious cat loose

Make new friends, show your eagerness to learn new things, participate in social work, and endorse noble causes all these are the necessary ingredients of networking while you are studying abroad. Volunteering activities not only increase your social awareness but also enhance your academic profile and gives you an opportunity to meet new people.

7. Broaden your linguistic horizons

Learning a new language never goes to waste. If you’re studying in a region that does not speak English,  be sure to learn the local language. If not that, learn the native languages of the other international or local students studying with you. Trust me when I say, learning a new language will always help you! 

A word of advice

Before you start your study abroad journey, try to get rid of the reluctance or fear of talking to new people. It can become a big impediment while networking in college.

Also, try to steer clear of bad associations since it will only affect you in a negative way. And be polite even if you face a slight harshness from the other side.

By integrating these networking tips into your lifestyle, you will be able to reap the maximum benefits of studying abroad.

Studying abroad is a monumental dream that many students want to fulfill. However, it can also be a very confusing and complicated process.

iSchoolConnect helps students with the end-to-end study abroad process. From choosing the right program to getting into your dream university, we guide you through it all. Need help with your study abroad applications? Contact us now!

WRITTEN BY

Aastha

Study Abroad Expert

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