Blogs

1. Getting Career Advice from Professionals

Talking to people already working in fields you’re interested in can give you valuable insights. A simple conversation with a professional, an alum from your school, or a guest speaker at an event can provide guidance on what skills to develop and how to break into a certain industry. For example, if you’re interested in marketing, speaking with a marketing professional might help you understand what courses, extracurriculars, or certifications can boost your chances of success.

2. Standing Out for Scholarships and University Applications

Many scholarships and university programs look for students who show initiative. If you’ve connected with professionals and engaged in meaningful conversations about career goals, you can mention these experiences in your applications. For example, if you want to attend Queen’s Commerce and have spoken to alumni about their experiences, you can highlight how their insights align with your career aspirations and personality.

Additionally, when asked, “Why do you want to go to this school?” in an application or interview, you can reference conversations with students or professors that gave you a deeper understanding of the school’s values, culture, and academic approach. This shows that you’ve done your research and have a genuine connection to the university beyond just rankings and reputation.

LinkedIn may seem like a platform for professionals, but it’s a great place for students to start building connections. Here’s how:

1. Set Up a Strong Profile

Use a clear, professional-looking profile picture (a simple headshot with good lighting works best).
Write a headline that reflects your interests (e.g., "High School Student | Aspiring Business Professional").
In your summary, mention your career interests, extracurricular activities, and any relevant skills or projects.
Add experience, even if it’s volunteer work, school projects, leadership roles in clubs, or part-time jobs.

2. Connect with People You Know

Start by adding teachers, classmates, family members, and club advisors.
If you attend a networking event, business competition, or career fair, connect with the people you meet. They likely share similar interests, which can be helpful in the future.
When sending connection requests to professionals, personalize them. For example: “Hi [Name], I’m a high school student interested in [Industry]. I’d love to connect and learn from your experiences!”

3. Engage with Content

Share school projects, reflections from business club events, or insights from internships or job shadowing experiences.
Comment on posts from professionals to start meaningful conversations. Engaging with content keeps you visible to your network.
Follow business leaders, companies, and organizations related to your interests to stay informed about industry trends.

4. Ask for Advice

Ask about someone’s career journey. - A message like “Hi [Name], I’m a high school student interested in marketing. What advice would you give someone my age looking to get started?” can help you understand how to break into a field easier.
If someone gives you advice, follow up with a thank-you message and keep them updated if you take their recommendations.

5. Explore Opportunities

Look for virtual events, mentorship programs, and student internships posted on LinkedIn.
Join LinkedIn groups related to your interests, such as student business networks or industry-specific communities.
Keep your profile updated so that if an opportunity arises, you’re ready to apply! Every step you take helps lay the foundation for your future success!

The Power of Networking

Why Networking is Important for High School Students