"Success in the future is shaped by the relationships you build today. Start investing in these connections now to become the professional you aspire to be." At UCW, we believe that networking is a cornerstone of career development. It’s not reserved for seasoned professionals—students can start building meaningful connections right away. The relationships you cultivate today may lead to internships, job opportunities, or valuable career guidance in the future. But networking is more than just exchanging business cards; it’s about forming genuine, lasting connections with inspiring individuals. These relationships offer insights, advice, and access to opportunities you might not find elsewhere. To help you become a more effective networker, the UCW Backpack Project offers practical tips and strategies. Whether you're exploring a new industry, looking for potential employers, or simply growing your professional network, we’ve got you covered. 1) Start Early Networking doesn’t have to wait until graduation—it begins the moment you step onto campus. Your peers, professors, and staff are invaluable resources for guidance, advice, and connections that can last a lifetime. Building relationships early helps you feel more connected and sets the stage for both academic and professional growth. •Example: After class, introduce yourself to a professor. Ask about their professional experiences and share your career interests. •Activity: Start small. Approach your professor or a staff member and introduce yourself in a friendly way. For instance, say, “Hi, my name is Annee, and I’m a second-year student in ABC. I admire your work in the Hospitality industry, and I’d love to learn from your experiences.” 2) Establish a Presence on LinkedIn LinkedIn is a powerful networking tool, with over 900 million members, including recruiters, industry leaders, and professionals. Keeping your profile up to date, engaging with relevant content, and connecting with UCW alumni or professionals in your field will position you as an active learner and help you build meaningful connections. •Example: Connect with classmates, professors, and UCW staff on LinkedIn. After meeting someone at an event, send them a personalized connection request within 24-48 hours. •Activity: The hardest part is often getting started but take that first step. Update your LinkedIn profile with details about your coursework, projects, and any collaborative work. Engage actively with industry-related posts or groups to boost your visibility, and don’t forget to tag your peers, colleagues, and faculty in relevant posts or articles. This will help foster engagement and strengthen your professional presence. 3) Don’t Just Ask for a Job Networking is most effective when approached to build genuine relationships rather than immediately seeking a job. It’s about creating meaningful connections and engaging with others authentically. Over time, as your network grows and relationships deepen, opportunities may arise naturally, making networking a more effective and sustainable strategy for career advancement. •Example: Instead of asking for a job outright, reach out to someone whose career you admire. Share what inspires you about their journey and ask them to share their experiences. •Activity: Each month, reach out to three people in your field—professors, alumni, or LinkedIn connections. Schedule informal conversations to learn about their career path, seek advice, and gain industry insights. 4) Attend Campus Events and Conferences Throughout the year, UCW hosts numerous events, such as industry conferences, student meetups, and career development workshops. These events are great opportunities to connect with peers, professionals, and potential employers. •Example: Attend career fairs, workshops, and networking events offered by UCW. Join student groups related to your interests and meet others in your field. •Activity: Volunteer to help organize events or join career-focused student groups. These activities provide direct access to industry professionals and help expand your network. 5) Be Patient and Consistent Networking is a continuous process that calls for patience and persistence. Every connection may not bring forth an opportunity immediately—and that is quite okay. It is normal to send out 100 LinkedIn requests and only get 5 to 10 responses. Don't get discouraged; networking is all about persistence for long-term relationships. Stay hopeful and keep pushing forward; it will pay off eventually. •Example: After meeting someone at an event, follow up with a thoughtful message on LinkedIn or via email. Periodically check in to nurture the connection. •Activity: Set reminders every few months to follow up with your contacts. Create a networking tracker in Excel to organize contacts, follow-up dates, and key details. This consistency will help you maintain strong relationships. Networking is one of the most effective ways to build your career, and it starts with small, intentional steps. By building genuine relationships, staying active on platforms like LinkedIn, and taking advantage of UCW’s resources, you can create a professional network that supports your aspirations. Start now, stay persistent, and watch your professional relationships grow into a powerful asset for your future.