How To Get Involved in Networking as an International Student

Networking can be a daunting task without access to the right connections. You may not realize it, but networking can be your ticket toward landing a good job after graduation.

It’s better to start networking as early as you can once you’re in college. Here’s how you can get involved with networking.

Leverage Social Media

The power and influence of social media go beyond the scope of advertising and entertainment. Social media platforms are an effective avenue for communication and connection, where individuals can create their own online spaces.

There are networking websites that are specifically made for professional networking such as LinkedIn. Such websites also offer other services such as job navigation, resume creation, and meetup arrangement.

Other social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are very useful networks too, but you have to filter each network to reach a specific niche. Everyone is on social media nowadays, so it wouldn’t be too difficult to engage in a network there. 

Keep in Touch With College Instructors

The role of a college instructor doesn’t end when a class does. At some point, their services extend beyond education and into employment.

Your professors can help you assess your strengths and weaknesses as a student and give you valuable advice on how to improve. With their extensive experience in education, they’re usually aware of various job opportunities that you can take.

Get Active in Clubs and School Organizations

Joining a club or a school organization allows you to meet people with similar interests. Participating in a group of like-minded people can help boost your networking skills.

Getting acquainted with other people also allows you to expand your horizons. Your club members can also introduce you to important people or recommend you for a job offer.

Volunteer for Organizations

Volunteering for organizations gives you different benefits. First, you’ll have the chance to do meaningful work for others. Second, you’ll have the chance to meet well-known professionals who sponsor those organizations.

Being involved in volunteer work is also impactful on your job hunt. The knowledge and life skills such as empathy and kindness that you’ll learn in volunteer work would make you more employable in the future. 

Expand Your Friendship Circle

People naturally stick together when they have something in common. In your case, if you want to expand your network, you must expand your friendship circle and try to get involved with different people.

Treating everyone with equal respect and consideration is the first move when making more friends. It isn’t important if the first impression lasts because you’d want to make a long-term connection with them.

Your friends can also vouch for you when you’re applying for a new job. They can even be your direct source for a successful networking journey.

Getting involved in a network is vital particularly for career prospects. If you want to learn more about the benefits of networking as an international student, read our stories at MSM Unify.