Networking isn’t just for job seekers - it starts right where you are. In today’s episode, Rebecca Harrington shares information on how to start networking on campus. Information discussed includes practical ways students can build connections through career fairs, student organizations, professors, alumni, and guest speakers, along with tips for starting early, showing curiosity, and following up effectively. But first, Pierre Michiels starts the episode by exploring the NACE competency of career and self-development, emphasizing curiosity, continuous learning, and seeking development opportunities as foundations for meaningful networking. After listening to this episode, we hope you have a better understanding of how to approach networking in a low‑pressure, relationship‑focused way that supports your long‑term career growth. 

Full episode transcript can be found on the episode page. Below is a general timestamp summary.  

00:00–01:30 — Introduction & Episode Overview 
The hosts introduce the Career Ready Podcast and outline the day’s focus on networking on campus, setting the stage for understanding career readiness and essential skills. 

01:30–03:30 — NACE Career & Self‑Development Competency 
Pierre explains the NACE competency of career and self‑development, emphasizing curiosity, continuous learning, seeking feedback, and using relationships to grow professionally. 

03:30–08:00 — Why Networking Matters 
The discussion highlights networking as a relationship‑building process rather than a job hunt. Rebecca explains how early, low‑pressure networking helps students access opportunities and learn from others. 

08:00–12:30 — Networking Through Student Organizations 
The hosts explore how clubs, leadership roles, guest speakers, and staying after events create natural connections that often lead to internships and mentorships. 

12:30–17:00 — Building Relationships with Professors 
Rebecca and Pierre describe professors as powerful networking allies, encouraging students to attend office hours, ask about career paths, and build genuine professional relationships. 

17:00–21:30 — Leveraging Alumni Networks 
They discuss how alumni can offer advice, informational interviews, and industry insights, and how personalized outreach increases the likelihood of meaningful connections. 

21:30–25:00 — Campus Events & Guest Speakers 
The episode wraps by emphasizing guest lectures and workshops as low‑pressure networking moments, with tips on asking questions, introducing yourself, and following up. 

Listeners in the College of DuPage community can visit our website. All other listeners are encouraged to view the resources of their local community college, WIOA training programs, or other local support centers.

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