Finding a job, figuring out postgrad, or even finding a career path may seem daunting. I am here to tell you, you are not alone in this! At the University of Rochester we offer a plethora of networking, and career exploration opportunities. It is never too early, or truly never too late to begin the process of networking as a college student.
Networking can begin at a peer-to-peer level, within your family, or at the alumni level. With the evolving digital bubble we live in, LinkedIn has become a powerful tool for networking and locating career opportunities. For many students, including myself, LinkedIn has been taken on as a form of social media. Social networking has gone beyond face-to-face interactions. Now, during a break after class or while searching for something to do, I open the LinkedIn application. A new job alert from my filtered interests lights up my laptop, or a new connection from a student I have never met before. These are the new social networking norms for this generation.
At the University of Rochester, there are various workshops where students can learn how to make their LinkedIn look professional as well as how to feature what they are looking for in a career. Essentially, this is a digital resume, so employers can view your achievements, and work experience all in one. Start this process early! The workshops are designed for every student: freshmen to seniors.
What’s more is URochester offers its own networking platform titled the Meliora Collective. In this program, undergraduate students have the opportunity to digitally network with alumni of the university. The alumni network ranges from the most recent graduate class to 1970 graduates. In the Meliora Collective portal, students can upload their resume, their LinkedIn profiles, and more information about what they would like to explore in their career. During the fall semester each year, applications for the Meliora Collective Mentorship program are released for any undergraduate student. After successfully applying, students are paired with an alumni in the network. The matches are made based on career interests for the student and how the alumni’s occupation aligns with these interests. The program operates from September to December. During this time period, mentors and mentees meet on an agreed time basis and work with goal setting, networking actions, and other action items regarding career exploration. This is an excellent opportunity for students who do not know what they want to do in the future, as their mentors can help show what Rochester Alumni do after graduation. For students who know what they want to do, the mentorship program connects them with an alumni in their industry, which can help with specific career goals.
In terms of the alumni network at URochester. There are many other ways to get students in contact with alumni. The University offers the Student Alumni Ambassador (SAA) program, operated through the Office of Alumni and Advancement. The SAA’s volunteer at various alumni events and connect with university alumni. These students also encourage others to engage with alumni. An important tradition at URochester is Meliora Weekend, which is alumni weekend. There are various class reunions during this time and engaging opportunities for undergraduate students to network with these alumni. URochester has one of the strongest connections with Alumni.
Ultimately, a great place to start the networking process is with alumni.
Another great career resource on campus is the Greene Center. There are various advisors who represent every career path, including graduate school options. The Greene Center works with students to update resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and they can help with interview prep. Each fall, the office also hosts the Fall Career Expo in which different companies table and talk to students. There is also an alumni dinner, where students learn how to eat in a professional setting, and they have the time to talk with alumni of similar fields as them. Whenever you are in doubt about the future, make an appointment at the Greene Center!
Nobody’s path to postgrad is linear. At URochester, there are various services for students to gain professional experience, skills, and build their network. Take advantage of the alumni resources and career exploration opportunities to put your best foot forward!