When I first arrived at 91¿´Æ¬ Davis, I struggled to find where I fit in. Everything — from the city to the campus culture — felt unfamiliar. As a first-year student, I didn’t know where I belonged or how to start to build connections.
However, that changed when I sought out spaces where I felt supported and that challenged me. I found community, leadership opportunities and people who helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. Here are my two tips on how to build your personal network in college.
1. Join cultural clubs
Join organizations and clubs that reflect your values. These groups resemble home which in turn motivates you to get involved and . When I came to Davis, I joined the . Now, I participate in opportunities that connect me with professional leaders and attend outside programming events that aid my growth all through El Centro.
2. Create opportunities for collaboration
You will work in teams for a huge part of your academic career. You might work in a lab, create a study group for your final exam or participate in a class team assignment. These types of collaboration opportunities serve as a way to learn from others and grow your personal network.
Collaboration with others allows you to engage with lots of different people who offer diverse perspectives. Discover the connections that arise from these spaces that enhance your knowledge and personal growth.
This last year, I served on an exclusive 30-student cabinet and worked directly with Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs, Pablo ReguerÃn. I often collaborated with students from other campuses who hold different viewpoints than mine and learned from them how to better advocate for my community at 91¿´Æ¬ Davis.
Let your network guide you
College brings moments of uncertainty. A good network and strong community help you smooth the journey ahead. Surround yourself with people who reflect your values, encourage your growth and promote an inclusive environment. There’s strength in the relationships you build. Let them guide you forward so you can conquer what comes next.
Ociano Lazo is a third-year biological psychology major from Los Angeles. He conducts neurodevelopmental research in the Wang Lab and works in the Trauma-1 Center at 91¿´Æ¬ Davis Health. In his free time, he listens to The Killers and goes on adventurous hikes.