Its all about connections.

Networking is crucial. We are often told this, but do not actually understand how important it really is. Connections are everything. Its all about who you know. You can be over qualified for a job, but if you don't know somebody within the company or institution, chances are you won't get the position. My dad is a college professor in Pennsylvania. He teaches health and physical education classes, with a concentration in networking. He probably speaks more about networking than he does about the actual course topics. He realizes how important it is--after all, it has gotten him to where he is today. He seems to know everybody. If I ever need tickets to an event, someone's opinion on an occupation, help with a school assignment, or an interview with a professional, he knows exactly who to call. It blows my mind.

I realize that I haven't exactly gotten involved in as many extracurricular activities in college as I did in high school. Sure, I've been participating in intramurals for the past two years, but where is that going to get me in life? I've decided it is time to start making some changes. I need to start building my resume. I recently began an internship at a physical therapy clinic. Through that experience, I've also landed a babysitting job. This past weekend, I babysat the owner's three children. A physical therapist married to a family physician--I'd say that's a good connection to have! Not only is this going to help me make a little extra cash while I'm in school, but later down the road I will be able to use them as references. Who knows, maybe I'll even get a job at their clinic! I am also planning on joining a community service club on campus, and hopefully a club in my major as well. One of my professors is also encouraging me to join a national organization in the health and physical education field. I will have the opportunity to attend and present at a conference with him in November. All of these things are good resume builders and great ways to meet people. I am on the right track!