It was not until my junior year of university when I was looking for an internship, that I realized how important it was to build a network. I was a transfer student from a community college, so my circle was nonexistent at my school. To top that, after my first semester in Business school, we went full online due to a world pandemic.
I had been involved in a business club in the community college, where I got the chance to meet great people, so I knew I could find a club at my new school. After some research, I learned that my new school had an ALPFA (Association of Latino Professionals for America) chapter on campus, so I was up to a great start there. I knew a little about the work that ALPFA does from the local professional chapter, so I quickly got involved as much as possible with the student chapter.
Some benefit of this type of clubs or organizations:
- Surround yourself with like-minded people, in my case, business students with a similar background. This helps you socialize faster and feel more comfortable sharing your ideas and goals.
- Learn new things. We may all be similar as a group, but you can see our differences on the individual level. Early on, I made it a hobby to always go to this event with an open mind and always assume that the person you are talking to knows something you don’t.
- Develop your people skills. Conversation: You start getting better at talking to people and expressing yourself.
By attending my student chapter meetings, I became more confident, learned of opportunities, and made long-life connections with like-minded people. Those people opened the door to me now as a professional, and I will be forever grateful to them. I started seeing the power of networking and growing your network and became passionate about the idea. I became so passionate that I eventually became the president of my student chapter; I wanted everyone to know what a network can do for them.
There are many ways to grow your network. Student and professional organizations are just a few of them that have worked for me. Search your school or local website for professional organizations, and you may be surprised by the list size. Pick one that draws your attention and fits your personal needs, and start connecting.
Thank you,
Loymi
Smart is the New Black 