Connect with alumni to jumpstart your journey

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is home to more than 470,000 living alumni.

Alumni of the university have created pathways for students, like myself and you, to become successful in their careers, interests, and passions. So, if you aren’t sure about how to get involved, whether that’s on campus or in your field of study, you should reach out to some of Illinois’ prestigious alumni. The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences alumni have connected using social media tools, such as LinkedIn, which allows students to network, as well. With this tool, students can ask those important, burning questions that can hopefully bring some guidance to their collegiate journeys. These alumni might be able to connect you with professionals within the industry and recommend people for you to follow on social media as another source of information. There is power in networking and sharing your experiences with individuals who may want to do the same thing as you.

So what really is networking? Networking is a tool that allows you to brand yourself and gain professional experience. The more people you meet and have access to, the more knowledge you gain from many different perspectives. You can then share your insights you have gained with the next person who may not be aware of the knowledge you are presenting to them. When networking with your peers, alumni, etc. it is important to think about new, innovative ideas that you can bring to the table. Your ideas and the personal brand you have created for yourself can help you to become a better leader and a positive influence. Building those personal relationships with professionals or alumni will mutually benefit both of you by advancing your social and professional networks. To get started with branding yourself, you can join LinkedIn. It is one of the top social networking sites to connect with some of the top business executives of the world. It is a place where you get to highlight your academic, professional, and extracurricular goals and achievements.

By using tools, such as the LAS LinkedIn page, to engage with alumni of the university, you can start to create your own LinkedIn profile and ask different alumni about their experiences here and what path they took to become successful. Several alumni have shared advice they wish they would have received during their time at Illinois. That advice includes:

1. Grow your network and don’t be afraid to ask for help. You can practice networking with your peers and even set up a LinkedIn profile to help you get started making connections.
2. Explore your career option by taking courses outside of your major.
3. Get involved on campus by joining organizations that interest your passions. You should also utilize all your resources like the Career Center, so they can help you proofread and perfect your resume and cover letter.
4. If you want to learn more about your culture and events on campus that support your cultural beliefs, you should visit the cultural houses.
5. Go to all of your classes and be an active listener. By doing this, you will be able to engage in the material. Read all required material before class and come prepared to ask questions.
6. Change up your studying habits by asking your peers, advisors, and professors for tips on ways to study. Also, find places to study where you can focus and get your mind activated.
7. Make sure you take care of yourself by engaging in activities that de-stress your mind and body.
8. Study abroad! Immerse yourself in different cultures and learn more about the world in which you live.
9. Work hard, believe in yourself, and embrace the challenge. You have all the tools you need to be successful. Remember, excellence is not an option, it is a destination.