Networking Isn’t as Awkward as You Think: What This Semester Actually Taught Me

A reflection on networking and how my perspective has changed throughout the semester . . .

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At the start of this semester, I thought networking was just a nicer way of saying forced small talk. You connect with people, try to sound interesting, and hope something comes out of it. I never saw it as something that could actually make a difference in my career.

But over the course of this marketing seminar series, that mindset changed. I started to see networking less as something performative and more as something practical. Something that could open doors if I approached it the right way.

From Just Showing Up to Actually Engaging

At first, I approached the seminar series passively. I listened, took notes, and moved on without thinking about how it applied to me.

That started to shift as I paid closer attention to how speakers described their careers. What stood out most was how often their opportunities came from people. Not just experience or qualifications, but connections, conversations, and follow ups.

It made me realize I had been thinking about networking in a limited way. Instead of something awkward, I started to see it as a tool I could use to create opportunities rather than wait for them.

Turning that Confidence into Action 

One of the biggest ways this shift showed up was in how I started reaching out to companies.

Before this course, I would have never considered emailing agencies directly. It felt intimidating and unrealistic.

But after hearing professionals talk about how opportunities often come from simply reaching out, I decided to try it myself.

I started sending personalized emails to agencies I was genuinely interested in. Instead of relying on traditional networking events, I focused on direct outreach. I explained who I was, why I was interested in their work, and what I hoped to learn.

At first, it felt uncomfortable, but after doing it a few times, it became easier.

Even when I did not receive a response, it still felt like progress because I was building confidence and taking initiative. It showed me that networking does not have to follow a specific format.

Building My Network Through LinkedIn

Alongside that, LinkedIn became a much more important part of how I approached networking.

At the start of the semester, I had a profile but did not use it beyond general career and education updates. Now, I see it as a space to build and maintain connections while highlighting what I can bring to the table.

One of the first people who influenced my thoughts on networking was Stephanie Lee, one of the early guest speakers in the seminar series. After learning about her career journey and networking approach, I wrote my first blog post reflecting on her insights. Her experience made networking feel more realistic, especially the idea that opportunities come from reaching out and staying connected.

I also connected with her on LinkedIn and continue to keep up with her posts and professional activity. Seeing how she shares her experiences has helped me understand how to stay active in a professional space.

That encouraged me to start using LinkedIn more intentionally. I began connecting with people in roles and companies I am interested in, often including personalized messages. I also became more active in engaging with content and following companies, which helped me better understand the industry. 

I secured my co-op position in February, and networking played a role in helping me feel more confident throughout that process. Through practicing outreach and building connections, I became more comfortable communicating professionally and presenting myself to employers. As a result, I approached conversations with more confidence rather than relying only on submitting applications online.

What Actually Made a Difference for Me

Going into this course, I assumed networking would always feel uncomfortable. What I learned instead is that the most effective networking is simple and genuine.

A few key lessons stood out to me:

• Following up matters more than waiting for the “perfect” opportunity

• Personalizing your message makes a noticeable difference

• You do not need a large network, just meaningful connections

• LinkedIn becomes more valuable the more you use it

• Confidence grows through action

  
  

I also realized that networking is not just about making connections, but maintaining them.

Moving forward, I plan to stay active on LinkedIn by engaging with content, staying connected with people I have reached out to, and continuing to build relationships over time.

Where This Leaves Me Now

Looking back, the biggest shift for me was not just learning about networking, but understanding how to use it in a way that feels real.

At the beginning of the semester, networking felt uncomfortable and forced. Now, I see it as something practical and within my control.

Through listening to professionals and applying what I learned, I realized that networking is less about trying to impress people and more about taking initiative. Whether it was sending emails or reaching out on LinkedIn, the most important step was simply starting.

That is what made the difference for me.

The biggest takeaway I am leaving with is that opportunities do not always come from waiting or applying online. Sometimes, they come from putting yourself out there, even when it feels uncomfortable.