You’ve heard the phrase, “It’s not what you know; it’s who you know.” However, in university, most students are laser-focused on the books, completely overlooking the extraordinary opportunities walking beside them in the halls, sitting across from them in lectures, or hosting guest webinars in their marketing class.
Solid grades will get you in the door. Networking in university? That’s how you unlock more doors than you ever thought existed.
Student networking is the not-so-secret sauce to making great things happen, whether you’re trying to land internships, secure a spot in a competitive co-op program, get research experience, or just find ‘your people.’
Let’s break down the networking blueprint for students like you, from what it is to how to do it (without it feeling forced or awkward).
What is Student Networking and How to Get Started?
Student networking is the art and science of building mutually beneficial relationships while you’re still studying. Don’t think about it as walking into rooms and schmoozing people in suits. It’s really about forming real connections with classmates, professors, alumni, professionals, mentors, and even peers at student events.
Start small:
- Talk to your classmates beyond the assignment deadline. Ask about their career goals. Swap LinkedIn profiles.
- Attend campus events – and yes, even the slightly awkward ones with name tags. The people showing up are doing it for the same reasons you are.
- Get to know your professors. Data shows that students who network with professors are 35% more likely to gain research opportunities.
- Be proactive during office hours. Professors and faculty staff are 40% more likely to write recommendation letters for students they’ve actually had conversations with.
- And don’t discount digital. 70% of college students use LinkedIn for professional networking. It’s not just for job seekers; it’s a live wire of introductions, ideas, and industry access.
At the International Business University (IBU), networking in university takes on a whole new level. Located in the heart of Toronto’s downtown core, you’re surrounded by business leaders, cultural events, tech meetups, and industry panels. The proximity alone gives IBU students a massive advantage when it comes to turning introductions into opportunities.
Why is Networking Important for Students?
Let’s stop romanticizing hustle culture for a moment and talk about real results.
85% of jobs are filled through networking. Let that sink in. Not job boards. Not submitting 50 resumes a week into a portal. Networking.
When you build relationships early, you shortcut the system later. That marketing guest speaker might become your internship supervisor. That alum you strike up a conversation with may be your future co-founder.
So, why is networking important for students?
- It gives you insider info you won’t find online.
- It opens doors to jobs and internships before they’re even posted.
- It connects you with mentors who’ve been exactly where you are.
- It makes you visible in the right places, even before you graduate.
Networking in university is ultimately your future résumé in progress.
What Are the Different Types of Networking?
There are different types of networking you’ll want to explore as a student, each with its own flavor and benefits.
Academic Networking
This includes conversations with professors, guest lecturers, and researchers. These connections can lead to grad school advice, recommendation letters, and opportunities within academia.
Peer Networking
Try not to view your classmates as competition. They’re more likely to be your future collaborators, colleagues, and connectors. The people around you now may join interesting companies, start their own ventures, or recommend you for roles later.
Professional Networking
This includes industry-specific conferences, meetups, webinars, and networking nights. It means talking with real-world professionals, recruiters, and potential mentors.
Online Networking
Platforms like LinkedIn and even X (used by 45% of students for career networking!) are fantastic tools. Look for networking groups, alumni networks, or live chats where professionals hang out. Your next opportunity could slide right into your DMs.
Social & Event Networking
Sometimes opportunity wears jeans and holds a free coffee. Campus mixers, cultural nights, and club events are disguised connection gold mines. Never underestimate the potential of an “accidental” conversation at an informal event.
At IBU, the diversity of the student body (spanning 50+ countries) makes your day-to-day life one giant international networking arena, immersing you in valuable global perspectives.
Networking Tips and Techniques for Students to Build Valuable Connections
You don’t need to be the loudest voice in the room to network effectively. You just need the right mindset and a few proven techniques:
Don’t Ask for a Job – Ask for Insight
Nobody likes being hit up for a role out of the blue. But people love talking about their path. Ask about their career journey, lessons they’ve learned, mistakes they’ve made, or advice for someone starting out.
Follow Up Like a Human, Not a Robot
Do not fire off a generic “Let’s connect!” message. If you met someone at an event, reference it. Mention what you found interesting. Be specific. Be memorable.
Give, Don’t Just Take
Share an article they might like or congratulate them on a new role. Maybe offer to help on a project. Great networking is reciprocal and revolves around contributing value.
Stay Active, Not Just Reactive
Don’t wait for your dream contact to appear. Join clubs. Attend IBU’s workshops and career events. Message alumni on LinkedIn. Initiate.
Keep Your Profiles Polished
Your LinkedIn doesn’t need to be flashy, but it should be professional. Use a clear photo. Write a bio that gives a quick snapshot of your interests and goals. You never know who’s checking out your profile and when.
The biggest mistake students? Waiting until graduation to start networking. Networking in university is a must for every student who wants to take ownership of their future, find mentors, and create meaningful connections that outlast the classroom. Because while degrees open doors, it’s often knowing the right person who hands you the keys.
At IBU, networking is built into your daily experience, from small classes and mentorship-based learning to our prime location in Toronto’s downtown core, where career-building moments happen every single day.
Lay the foundation for your career – explore our BCOM programs or dive into our MBA programs today! Contact us for details.