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At the start of the semester, when I first heard the word “networking,” I instantly pictured uncomfortable small talk, forced LinkedIn messages, and awkwardly trying to prove my worth to people I barely knew. I thought networking was something you had to do; like a checkbox on the path to getting a job. What I didn’t expect was how personal and transformative it would actually become.

This class didn’t just teach me marketing strategies or industry trends; it gave me stories, connection, and a deeper understanding of what kind of career I want to build and who I want to be while building it.

What I Learned

One of the sessions that really shifted my perspective was with Alyssa Zwonok, the founder of Nomad Cre8tive. Hearing her talk about building a remote-first creative agency felt like a breath of fresh air. It wasn’t about chasing hustle culture or glorifying overwork—it was about designing your work around your life, not the other way around. That really stuck with me. As someone who's often juggling classes, side projects, and part-time work, it was a reminder that rest and balance aren't signs of laziness—they’re part of working smart.

Then there was Leslie, who shared her story through such a warm, real lens. Her message that "it's okay to change your mind" honestly lifted a weight off my shoulders. I’ve always felt this pressure to “figure it all out,” as if choosing a career path was a one-time decision. But Leslie talked about careers as something evolving—something we grow into and shape over time. That changed the way I view not only my goals but also my failures and pivots. Instead of feeling behind, I started seeing myself as still becoming. Still learning.

What these speakers gave me wasn’t just advice; it was permission. Permission to slow down. Permission to be curious. Permission to build something meaningful, even if it takes time.

Building a Network (Without the Pressure)

Throughout the semester, I tried to be more intentional about connecting with people. After some of the sessions, I made sure to reach out on LinkedIn; just a quick message thanking them for sharing their story. I didn’t overthink it. I just wanted to acknowledge how much their honesty helped me reflect on my own journey. And that, I realized, is where networking really begins. It’s not in trying to "sell" yourself; it's in being real.

I joined a few LinkedIn groups this term, including one for young marketers in Canada. I mostly read posts and observed, but I’ve started to slowly engage; commenting here and there, sharing resources I found useful. It’s small, but it feels like progress.

As part of my continued effort to grow professionally, I registered for the upcoming AWS Summit Toronto 2025, which focuses on innovations in cloud computing and artificial intelligence. While the event is rooted in tech, its emphasis on AI applications holds direct relevance to marketing. With AI becoming an essential part of digital strategy, I saw this as an opportunity to broaden my understanding of how technology is shaping the industry and to connect with professionals from diverse sectors. Taking steps like this reminds me that networking can begin simply with a decision to show up and engage.

In all of this, I’ve realized that connection doesn’t just happen at formal networking events. It happens in the small interactions, the follow-ups, and the choices we make to stay curious and present.

Keeping It Going

As the semester went on, I made it a point to stay consistent with outreach checking in with former supervisors, chatting with peers, and keeping the conversation going after events. Those interactions didn’t always lead to something immediate, but over time, they gave me clarity and quiet confidence about what direction I wanted to take next. I found that being open, curious, and willing to ask thoughtful questions often sparked more meaningful responses than any perfectly crafted message ever could.

Looking back, I can say that those ongoing conversations made a real difference. Some doors felt a little easier to knock on, some opportunities felt more aligned and that didn’t happen by accident. It was the result of putting myself out there in small, intentional ways.

The Best Lesson? Be Yourself.

I used to think I had to “present” a certain version of myself when I networked; confident, polished, maybe even a little rehearsed. But this semester taught me that authenticity is far more valuable. People connect to real stories, to shared experiences, to vulnerability. It’s okay to say, “I’m still figuring it out.” In fact, most people are.

So here’s what I’ll take with me: 1. Say thank you. 2. Ask thoughtful questions. 3. Stay curious. 4. Show up consistently and as yourself.