Unlocking Career Success: The Power of Networking for Students

Networking is the ability to create fruitful connections. You have probably heard of the phrase "it’s not what you know, it’s who you know”, which tells us that networking is an asset in career progression. As a student, you can build relationships when working on a group project, joining clubs or societies, attending conferences or workshops, and attending career fairs. The good news is, all of these events are a great way for students to meet other people to help expand their community.  

1. Student societies or clubs  

UCL has over 350 clubs and societies catering to every interest, you'll find the perfect platform to explore your passions, develop new skills, and build lifelong friendships. Imagine yourself debating current events with the Debating Society, learning salsa moves with the Dance Society, or even tackling global challenges with the volunteering societies. The possibilities are endless! 

Beyond academics, clubs, and societies provide a welcoming space to hone your interpersonal skills. Through collaborative projects, engaging discussions, and social events, you'll gain valuable experience in communication, teamwork, and leadership. These well-rounded skills will not only enhance your university experience but also make you a more attractive candidate for future employers. 

Ready to embark on this exciting journey? Visit the Students' Union website to browse the extensive list of clubs and societies, and discover where your passion lies!

2. Career fairs  

Career fairs are more than just browsing booths; they're launching pads for your career. Dive deep into the latest industry trends, developments, and opportunities by engaging with industry experts and recruiters. These conversations broaden your horizon about different career paths, aiding your career planning. Plus, face-to-face meetings with recruiters allow you to make a lasting impression, ask insightful questions about roles, and learn about job openings. Don't miss out! Keep an eye out for upcoming GBSH events, or industry-specific shows such as Women in STEM or tech shows.

3. Conferences, events, and workshops  

Conferences and events are powerhouses for student growth. These gatherings offer a multitude of benefits, from expanding your knowledge base to building a strong professional network. Through diverse sessions, workshops, and panel discussions by industry experts, you gain new insights, acquire practical skills, and learn from key opinion leaders. Networking is another advantage. You can connect with peers, mentors, potential collaborators, and even future employers, opening doors to exciting opportunities and collaborations. Eventbrite is a great platform to browse for relevant events that can spark inspiration for your future! As a major city in the world, London is home to many conferences. To name a few, as a MSc Digital Health and Entrepreneurship student, I had the privilege to attend several major conferences such as Digital Health AI and Data, Digital Health Rewired Conference, GIANT Health Conference, and Advanced Therapies Conference, which broadened my horizons about cutting-edge technology in the healthcare setting. These events also allow me to interact with professionals from diverse backgrounds, exposing me to different perspectives and approaches.  

4. Social media  

LinkedIn is gaining popularity as a premier professional social networking tool. Students can jumpstart their professional journey on LinkedIn by crafting a compelling profile that showcases their academic achievements, relevant coursework, volunteer experiences, and career goals. This platform is a gateway to connect with industry leaders and alumni. When reaching out, personalise connection requests by mentioning a specific aspect of their work that interests you or how their experience aligns with your goals. Don't forget to maintain good rapport by periodically checking profiles, sending congratulatory messages for achievements, and keeping your network informed with interesting content. By following these steps, students can leverage LinkedIn to cultivate a powerful professional network that can open doors to internships, job opportunities, and valuable mentorship throughout their careers. 

Remember, networking is a two-way street. Focus on building genuine connections and offering value to others. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to cultivating a powerful network that will propel you forward in your career.