March 10, 2020

Networking is about professionally connecting with others to build mutually beneficial relationships. These connections can help you keep up with trends in your field, learn about career opportunities, and build rapport with others in the field. Take note of these strategies to increase your virtual networking confidence and success:

Prepare your introduction. Plan a short introduction that includes your career experience and goals. Being prepared will help you put your best foot forward right from the beginning of a conversation. 

Join networks. Social media offers great opportunities to connect with people in your field. Make sure your profiles are consistent and professional, then engage with groups across various platforms.

Stay engaged. Actively listening to people you’re looking to connect with is just as important as giving your intro. To show that you’re engaged, take time to ask questions about their background, interests, advice, and thoughts on industry trends.

Meet your connections in person. Virtual networking can be essential when you’re first building your network, but you should still try to engage in traditional networking. Make it a priority to reach out to your local contacts to meet up over coffee or at industry events.

Written communication is a huge component of success as an online student. The Writing Center offers free, personal writing assistance to students for any writing project. Online students can take advantage of The Writing Center services via email or Skype appointment. For general information, visit writing.wisc.edu.

Good nutrition is essential not only to your health, but it’s also shown to improve grades and learning outcomes. It’s no secret that student budgets can be limited, but you don’t have to sacrifice your health for an education. There are a variety of foods across the food groups that can be purchased with a limited budget.

Compare prices. Don’t be afraid to compare prices online between different stores or in the aisles.

Cook at home. Cooking your own food is often less expensive and more nutritious than eating out at a restaurant. Meal planning and food preparation ahead of time can make it easier to incorporate healthy lifestyle habits into a busy college schedule.

Think outside the farmers’ market. Fruits and vegetables pack nearly the same amount of nutrients fresh or frozen, but frozen are often sold at more affordable prices for larger portions.

Read more of UHS’s nutrition tips.