Networking can sometimes feel intimidating, but at its core it’s really just about building human connections. At CSE’s recent Speed Networking Night, Brandeis students had the opportunity to meet alumni across analytics and related fields, ask career questions, and practice building professional relationships in a supportive, fast-paced environment.
Whether you attended the event or are preparing for your next networking opportunity, here are seven takeaways to help you make the most of your next student-alumni connection.
1. Preparation builds confidence
Students who spent a little time preparing beforehand found it much easier to start conversations. Reviewing alumni profiles on LinkedIn or BConnect helped students identify shared interests and prepare thoughtful questions.
A few simple ways to prepare:
- Look up participating alumni beforehand
- Identify 2–3 questions you could ask
- Think about how their background connects to your interests
A little preparation can make a big difference in helping you feel confident walking into the room.
2. A strong introduction sets the tone
With only a few minutes per conversation, students quickly saw the value of a clear and concise introduction. A good elevator pitch helps start the conversation while leaving plenty of time for dialogue.
A simple formula:
- Who you are: Name, class year, and major
- What you’re interested in: Career interests or skills you’re developing
- A personal detail: Hometown, hobby, or what brought you to the event
Keeping this introduction to about 30 seconds helps create a natural back-and-forth conversation.
3. The best conversations find common ground
While many students came prepared with career questions, some of the most memorable conversations started with simple connections. Shared Brandeis experiences provided an easy starting point.
Great conversation starters included:
- Favorite professors or classes
- Campus organizations or events
- Industry trends
- Hobbies or interests
These authentic moments often helped conversations feel more natural and helped students stand out.
4. Focus on relationships, not immediate opportunities
One important reminder from the evening: networking is about building relationships, not asking for jobs on the spot.
Rather than asking for referrals right away, students who focused on learning about alumni experiences often made stronger impressions. Career opportunities often grow naturally from relationships built over time.
5. Body language matters more than you think
Students were reminded that communication isn’t just about what you say. Non-verbal cues play a major role in how you are perceived.
A few simple techniques:
- Make eye contact
- Smile and show engagement
- Keep an open posture
- Speak clearly and at a comfortable pace
Even small adjustments can help you appear confident and approachable.
6. The follow-up is where networking really begins
A common theme from the event: the real value of networking often comes after the event ends.
Students were encouraged to follow up within 24 hours with alumni they connected with, typically through LinkedIn or BConnect unless another contact method was suggested.
Strong follow-up messages usually include:
- A thank you
- A specific reference to your conversation
- A way to continue the connection
For example:
It was great speaking with you about your transition into data analytics. I especially appreciated your advice about technical interviews and plan to use it as I prepare for upcoming opportunities.
Personalized follow-ups help turn short conversations into meaningful professional connections.
7. Professional doesn’t have to mean formal
Students sometimes assume networking requires formal business attire, but most student-alumni events are business casual or smart casual. Our CSE Professional Appearance and Attire Guide is a great resource to help you navigate what to wear.
The goal is simple: look polished and put together while still feeling comfortable and authentic. When in doubt, aim for neat, professional, and event-appropriate attire.
Final takeaway: Networking is a skill you build over time
Perhaps the biggest lesson from the evening was that networking becomes easier with practice. Many students found that after their first conversation, their confidence grew quickly.
Most importantly, alumni genuinely want to help. They remember what it was like to be in your position and are excited to connect with current Brandeis students.
The biggest advice from the evening:
Come prepared, stay curious, be yourself, and don’t forget to follow up.
Events like Speed Networking Night aren’t just about making connections in the moment—they’re about building relationships that can support your career journey long after the event ends.
