This week I wanted to share some thoughts and insight on networking. I believe to pursue a specific career path it is extremely important to know the right people and get the correct advice. I moved into LA last week and this Wednesday was the first Sundowners event I attended with my fellow classmates and current students. It was a great opportunity to talk with students currently in their summer internships and learn firsthand about their experiences working in different industries. Since I am hoping to pursue a career in entrepreneurship / tech startup, I was able to gain some valuable feedback from some students in that field. One student landed his internship at a startup by responding to an email from the Real Estate Student Association while another student met with the founders of the company that he works at, during a networking event at Anderson, and secured an interview that led to the internship. The Parker Career Management Center coupled with the student organizations will pretty much open up all opportunity to find the right gig for each student.
The pre-orientation deliverable to update my resume and get feedback has also helped me think about the conversations I would be having with potential employers when I present my skill sets. In addition, it has got me started thinking about my plan B. If my primary target industry doesn’t work out, which companies will I be looking at and how will I present myself to them? Thinking about my career choice earlier than later will save me from rushing through at the last minute and provide ample time to polish my resume and pitch, when I not overwhelmed with classes and assignments.
Overall, Anderson’s alumni and student network provides vast options for students to learn about working at different companies, how to prepare for interviews, highlight the correct skills on the resume and so on. Using feedback from networking is critical in this regard. As my Anderson journey continues, I will write about specific networking events and aspects that I will utilize and how they help me land my dream job.
Here is a picture from the Sundowners social this past Wednesday at The Wellesbourne.
