London Williams, Staff Writer

College isn’t a solo sport; it offers many new opportunities, as well as challenges, but you don’t have to go through it alone or figure it out on your own. Students balance and stress over so much work, classes, responsibilities and plans, yet support may be closer than they realize. Students can find information, encouragement and opportunities in many different people around them. These include professors, mentors, classmates, clubs, campus communities and open conversations. Remember, not every connection has to be with someone extremely important, and you don’t need a large friend group to achieve this.

What students can gain from building connections:

• Advice from people who have faced the same challenge
• Encouragement
• Insight on internships, jobs and opportunities
• Confidence
• Mentorship & guidance
• Help towards future goals
• The opportunity to connect and help others

These connections are part of what you pay for; they are key to building your social wealth. Students can build their networks through everyday actions. They come with knowledge, encouragement and opportunities people will share with you as you build your network. A professor might help you explore a career path or give you insight for future endeavors. A classmate could offer study tips or introduce you to people they know who could help you towards a better social group. You can take small steps, such as attending campus events, joining a group or organization and attending professors’ office hours. Students can also share what they know and return the favor; when people give as well as receive, the connection becomes more meaningful and stronger.

Using the social wealth provided around you, then networking isn’t about using people as stepping stones; it is a resource that can help you go above and beyond in life. It’s not about walking up to people asking for favors; it’s more about how you can apply yourself by being sociable. A strong network is built by supporting one another and gaining insight through meaningful conversation.

Not every student comes into college with the same level of support or guidance; building your network doesn’t happen overnight. It’s definitely a resource that you shouldn’t procrastinate on. If you’re not sociable, this is the time to take that leap of faith. Connections do not solve every problem, but they can help you find what your next step in your path could be. As students take this step, the campus’s job is to make those spaces feel welcoming as they navigate their journey.

Every student has the chance to be part of a campus where people strive to thrive, encourage and support one another. College success is not only about what we can complete alone. The more we share and understand what we’re taking advantage of on campus and beyond, the stronger our community and your plan will become.