Networking tips for Students to be career-ready

TORONTO, Sept. 3, 2013 --- Students may not be thinking about their future careers when they start university, but schools offer a plethora of networking opportunities to start building their connections. Stephen Kassim, a political science student in his final year at Ryerson University, offers tips to new students learn how to build a strong network that will help launch their careers right out of university.

1. Step out of your comfort zone
Networking requires you to reach out and talk to people, and this means stepping out of your comfort zone. Start off by introducing yourself to your peers in class. This can be as simple as starting small talk with the person you are sitting next to. Find out why they chose the same program as you and you may be surprised to learn how much you have in common. It’s also handy to have their contact information so you can buddy-up and share class notes if one person misses a lecture.

2. Get to know your professor
Professors are a wealth of industry knowledge and often have great connections within their field. Visit your professor during office hours to find out more about your field of study, where the job opportunities are, and what type of skills and experience are required that will put you ahead of other applicants when you start applying for work. Your professor will appreciate your enthusiasm and will remember you when you ask them for any reference letters for a job.

3. Get involved
Get involved in course unions and student associations. Each program usually has its own student association, which is a great way to connect with your peers.  Student associations often work closely with alumni and industry professionals, which can help expand your network in your field and lead to potential job opportunities in the future.

4. Be social
Attend university events. Whether you’re catching a home basketball game, a lecture series, or a community celebratory event, you never know who you can meet. The more you become engaged with your campus, the more you will develop long-lasting relationships.

5. Student competitions
Competitions organized by a student organization or by an instructor offer many benefits to networking. Industry professionals in your field are often judges so you have the opportunity to showcase your talent and receive valuable feedback from these experts. By working closely with your peers, you are also honing leadership, organizational and relationship-building skills that are vital to your future career. You are also building strong relationships with fellow students who one day may be working with you as a professional colleague.

EXPERT AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW:

Stephen Kassim
Board of Governors | Ryerson University
Cell: 416-930-5745 | stephen.kassim@ryerson.ca

MEDIA CONTACT:

Suelan Toye
Public Affairs | Ryerson University
Office: 416-979-5000 x 7161
stoye@ryerson.ca
@RyersonU