Overview
This module focuses on helping you build and leverage your professional network by exploring campus and online resources. You will learn how to engage with career centers, student organizations, and digital platforms to create meaningful connections that support your academic and career goals.
Objective
Identify and engage with existing networking opportunities on your University campus.
Key Topics
- Utilizing university career centers, events, guest lectures, and student organizations
- Building and maintaining mentor relationships
- Expanding your professional presence through platforms like LinkedIn and Handshake
→ Tapping into University Resources
If you’re studying in the Netherlands, your university likely offers a dedicated career center to support your academic and professional development.
- The University of Groningen offers a career service platform where students can learn to write CVs, prepare for interviews, and explore job opportunities.
- In addition to these services, many student-led events are specifically curated to support academic and professional growth. Participating in such events is a fantastic way to build meaningful connections with fellow students, faculty members, and professionals from your field.
- To find these events, simply visit your university’s website and explore the career or student services sections. For students at the University of Groningen, this might look like clicking on the “Career” button on Brightspace:
This will lead you to a website like this:
Student Groups at RUG Connect can also help students find activities, join interest groups, and stay informed about events.
→ Engaging with Student Associations
- Student associations are another excellent avenue for networking. These groups not only host valuable academic and career-oriented events, but also offer direct access to lecturers and professionals who may become long-term collaborators or mentors.
- Joining these organizations can significantly enhance your university experience and open doors to internships and research opportunities.
→ Finding and Keeping Mentors
- Developing a relationship with a mentor, such as a professor, lecturer, or researcher in your faculty, can be a game-changer. These relationships provide guidance, support, and potentially open pathways to internships or collaborative research.
- Maintaining ongoing communication and building a stable, professional rapport with a mentor is an investment that often yields long-term career benefits..
→ Leveraging Online Platforms
- Platforms like LinkedIn and Handshake are essential for networking. A professional profile helps you connect and showcase your skills.
Not sure where to start? Our week 2 module is specifically designed to help you understand your strengths and master creating a LinkedIn profile!
Activities for This Week
1. Attend a real or simulated networking event:
For this week, you should try to attend a networking event such as a career mixer, alumni panel, or guest lecture, either in person or online. Try to introduce yourself to at least one new person, ask thoughtful questions, and exchange contact details if appropriate. If attending a live event isn’t possible, try joining a simulated networking workshop or role-play session to practice your skills. After the event, take a few minutes to reflect on what went well and how you might improve next time. Following up with any new contacts can also help build lasting connections.
2. Use LinkedIn to grow your network:
If no events are available, focus on expanding your network digitally.
- Join at least one LinkedIn group relevant to your field.
- Examples:
- Psychology: Psychology Professionals, Cognitive Neuroscience Network, APA
- Other fields: Search for “marketing,” “data science,” “education,” or “sustainability” and filter by Groups.
- Follow pages like Psychology Today, WHO, or your university’s career center.
- Connect with faculty members and engage with posts to increase your visibility.
Pro Tip: Liking, commenting, and sharing posts is a great way to stay visible and start meaningful conversations.