One of the exciting opportunities that come with the privilege of being a Gold Scholar are the chances to network with fellow scholars, mentors, staff, donors, and inspirational professionals. STEP B’s networking event in second year can seem daunting, especially as someone who considers themselves introverted, but it gives you the chance to push your boundaries, gain confidence and find new connections.
Preparing for the event
STEP B began with the opportunity to get headshots taken professionally to enhance our LinkedIn profiles. Prior to STEP B, I had chosen a smart-business outfit which I had obtained during a previous Gold Scholar event when the charity 1st Impressions brought in a selection of donated professional clothing items for scholars to choose from. This meant I was not stressed when trying to choose an outfit for this professional event, as I knew that 1st Impressions had already provided me with a go-to outfit for events like these.
Working on my nerves
Initially, I was apprehensive before the networking event since I knew that it would push me out of my comfort zone as someone who considers themselves to be shy and quiet. The workshops before the evening began had helped ease my nerves as I felt more reassured, especially after speaking to a former Gold Scholar who had already successfully completed this evening. We were advised to note down the name of 3 individuals who we would like to speak to, as found on the Gold Scholar app. Planning and preparing for the event in advance helped manage my nerves as I knew what I might say to specific mentors and donors.
In the afternoon leading up to the networking event, we also had the option to attend either a novice or expert LinkedIn workshop. I attended the novice workshop since I am not a confident LinkedIn user, and I found it super insightful for enhancing my profile ensuring that I am making the most out of forming new connections and seeking new opportunities. For example, I learnt that my relevant voluntary work should appear in the “experience” sub-section, even if it was not paid. We also attended a preparation class for networking, which equipped us with potential conversation starters and the opportunity to practice these with our fellow Gold Scholars.
ALT TEXT - Photograph of me speaking to a former gold scholar about their current career goals
The main event
After some delicious Domino’s pizza, we made our way to the Claverton Rooms to get networking. The evening began with a few refreshments, and I worked up the courage to speak to the mentors when I saw everyone else giving it a go. Once the conversations began, it became so much easier to settle into the flow and gain the confidence to start asking them questions about their career. I found it particularly helpful to ask the mentors if they could give themselves any piece of advice looking back to their younger selves, what would they say? The variety of answers provided me with comfort. I learnt ultimately that it is totally okay not to know exactly what you want to do with your career at the moment, and that it is important to navigate, experience and put yourself out there as much as you can to see what you might surprisingly like. Speaking to former Gold Scholars also provided me with valuable insights about placement application processes as a current second year navigating my way through this.
ALT TEXT - Photograph of the networking event with everyone listening to our guest speaker
Lesson learnt
The networking event, whilst maybe daunting at first, is a fabulous opportunity to connect with individuals who can give you life-changing expertise and advice. Putting yourself out there is the best way to make the most of this opportunity, and you will look back and be proud of yourself for doing so.
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