According to a handout on networking provided by The Department of Career Services and Outreach, networking is the process of developing personal contacts for the purpose of career exploration and job or internship relationships.
Career Services Assistant Director and featured speaker Mr. Frederick V. Roberts, said that “it was to provide students with the tools to use at the general network social to be held on Sept. 17.”
The seminar also focused on the untapped power of the Internet. Roberts referred to the Internet as “the most powerful networking tool if used correctly.” MySpace and Facebook were created by college students trying to network with each other. Now they are billion dollar businesses where people all around the world can connect and share business ideas.
Freshman nursing major Whitney Washington said she came to “learn to network and get an internship.” Senior DeJuan Hall said he was “career orientated”.
“Don’t burn bridges you have crossed because you may need to cross them again,” were a just few of the words of wisdom Roberts gave concerning people who don’t treat other people right. Roberts said to tell everyone that you’re seeking a position, because no one will know if it is never mentioned.
He also emphasized that presenting a recruiter a business card along with your resume will get you recognized more as a person different and ready to work. Business cards may include information ranging from a name and desired position, to degrees obtained and employment and internship experience.
” Business cards are mini resumes and will always be needed,” said Roberts.
Through networking Roberts was able to help start Destiny’s Child’s career in the music business. They had one of their first performances at Prairie View A&M University as the girl group Girl Tyme. He has also had Sinbad, Jodeci and many other artists come to Prairie View through his extensive connections in the entertainment business.
Roberts ended the seminar saying, “Make proper use of who you are, what you do and who you communicate with,” leaving everyone pumped and ready to network.
People seeking employment may email the university’s job seeker program at ajobseeker@pvamu.edu.