Networking in college

While it might not seem like a pressing issue during your freshman year of college, building an extensive network of contacts is a vital part of securing employment after graduation. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of attending a four-year college in the 2009-2010 school year was nearly $33,000 - a hefty sum to repay even with scholarship opportunities. Because of this impending debt, you should get an early start on your job search by networking as an undergraduate.

Whether you have work-study financial aid or secure an independent on-campus job, your coworkers and supervisors at these opportunities can be the beginnings of a larger network. You should try to cultivate meaningful relationships and establish a professional reputation with your bosses and supervisors - they may be able to point you in the right career direction after college. The same goes for internship supervisors - these are the people who can recommend and refer you to great jobs down the line.

Don't limit your professors' influence in your life to classroom time either - meeting and talking with them after class and during office hours will demonstrate your ambition and friendliness. Not only will building a stronger relationship with your professors help boost your academic success, but they can connect you with colleagues and friends of theirs in your desired industry.

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