NETWORKING!

Did I scare you?

The typical college student when someone talks about networking.

Networking is a useful skill, but most people still have no idea what it means. College professors and professionals mention it often, and you're expected to know what they're talking about.

Networking seems intimidating and elusive to the average college student.

I get it. I was in the same boat, and I still am in some ways. But I've gotten better at networking, and I want to share my advice with the world.

Here's the formal (and not very helpful) definition of networking: "The cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business."

But how do you network? Some students feel like they need a step-by-step guide.

My answer to this question is that there really isn't one way to network, and you don't need a step-by-step guide.

"There's no one way to network? There's no step-by-step guide to get me a job? INCONCEIVABLE!"

Just hear me out.

I attended a networking event for the first time early in the spring semester for students in the Greater Philadelphia area. Although I was excited, I walked into the room and immediately felt intimidated.

Everyone in the room was just as qualified (perhaps even more qualified) as I was. They walked up to people effortlessly. I had to wait in line just to talk to someone from a company I was interested in. It was overwhelming.

Although I left with business cards and e-mails written on random pieces of paper, I didn't feel like I achieved anything. I didn't really "click" with anyone.

Although networking events are great, they aren't for everyone. In my opinion, networking events shouldn't be your first time when you try to '"network." Networking doesn't always have to happen at formal events. In fact, networking can happen anywhere!

Here's another story. I was volunteering at an admissions event at my college and had the opportunity to move to the neuroscience table. I met a professor at the table, introduced myself, and helped him answer questions that prospective students had.

When he mentioned that he was looking for people to join his lab, I took a chance. After the event, I told him that I was interested. He gave me his business card. I emailed him, got an interview, and got the position. I'm going to help out in his lab starting this summer.

The moral of my story is that networking isn't as intimidating as people make it out to be. Sometimes networking can be as simple as taking a chance and introducing yourself. You don't have to attend a formal event or meet tons of employers at once.

Start with the people you see every day, including your professors. Start sitting in the front of the lecture hall. Talk to your professors after class. Talk to your professors during office hours. Ask about their research and ask how you can help. You never know what opportunities may come your way.