Networking does not only occur in the workplace, nor is it generally restricted to professional networks. Your family and circle of friends can all be part of your network and may be able to help you meet someone currently working at your dream job or explore new paths. Be sure to go through their own network list in order to ask them to introduce you.


As a student, the alumni association or database can be a gold mine to see what someone in your degree or with similar experiences has gone on to do later on. Your university may also hold career fairs or networking events for your faculty or program - but don’t be afraid to attend events from another faculty if you find it relevant and interesting to your studies or interests. Student associations are also a good stop to meet other peers and students. Don’t be afraid of attending lectures and connecting with the professors afterwards as an alternative. Networking can also happen virtually; check out our “How can I network virtually?” question.