Events
Connect at events that actually fit you
Browse conferences, workshops, and networking events built for Hispanic, Black, Native, first-generation, and low-income students. Showing up is half the battle, but how you prepare and follow up is what turns a handshake into a real opportunity. Five things worth knowing first.
01 · Start with the right room
Pick events built for students like you
Affinity conferences and diversity-focused career fairs put you in rooms where people already understand your background. You spend less time explaining yourself and more time building relationships that actually help.
Look for: NSBE · SHPE · NABA · Inroads · ColorStack · your school's multicultural center events calendar
02 · Quality over quantity
Network intentionally, not widely
One meaningful conversation beats twenty quick exchanges. Pick two or three people you genuinely want to know; ask real questions, listen, and leave with a reason to follow up.
Before the event, scan the attendee or speaker list and note 2–3 names worth meeting.
03 · The window is short
Follow up within 48 hours
People forget fast. A short, specific message within two days referencing something you talked about keeps the connection alive. Waiting a week often means starting over from zero.
Template: mention the event, one detail from your chat, and one clear ask or offer.
04 · Do the homework
Prepare before you walk in
A 30-second intro, three questions for speakers, and a plan for who you want to meet turns nervous energy into confidence. Most attendees wing it, preparation is an edge.
Write your intro on paper. Practice it once out loud. Bring a few copies of your resume or a LinkedIn QR code.
05 · Online counts
Don't skip virtual events
Virtual conferences and webinars cost less, remove travel barriers, and still put you in front of recruiters and mentors. Chat features and breakout rooms can lead to the same follow-ups as in-person, if you participate instead of just watching.