Many career success stories have been made possible by learning to thoughtfully engage with fellow business professionals. One recurring piece of advice often offered to entrepreneurs and aspiring leaders is “expand your network.” For the AGSM Career Development Center (CDC), networking is not presented as something mysterious, complex, or fear-inducing. Instead, it is framed as a skill that can be practiced, developed, and used to create meaningful professional relationships.
"As the marketing assistant for the Career Development Center, I was excited to put together a big networking event that included our alumni, area employers, and graduate students," says Gregory Romero ’22. The enthusiasm behind this statement reflects the effort put into ensuring the event was both welcoming and impactful. The CDC team curated a program that emphasized structure while still leaving plenty of room for authentic interaction. Coordinators provided tools such as tabletop conversational prompts, which encouraged participants to break the ice, ask thoughtful questions, and share their own stories. These small but intentional details helped students overcome hesitation and engage more confidently with business professionals.
Those in attendance had the opportunity to speak with a number of business executives and community leaders, many of whom represented industries that aligned closely with the graduate students’ career interests. Building these kinds of direct connections is one of the most effective ways for students to expand their understanding of different career paths while also gaining practical advice from individuals who have successfully navigated their own journeys. For many graduate students, this networking dinner was one of their first opportunities to practice professional conversations in a supportive and resourceful environment.
"About one-third of the executives in attendance were UCR alumni," says Assistant Director of Career Services Analy Garcia. This detail underscored the strength of the UCR alumni network and the willingness of graduates to give back by mentoring the next generation of professionals. One such alumnus was Ruben Hernandez ’99, who served as the evening’s featured speaker. After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, Hernandez pursued graduate studies at the A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management, where he developed a strong foundation of mentors who guided his professional development. Today, he continues to work closely with UCR Veterans Services, demonstrating his commitment to paying it forward and supporting others.
Hernandez’s remarks were both practical and motivational. He discussed the perseverance it takes to overcome the nerves that networking can trigger, offering strategies to move past hesitation. "We have such a reliance on technology. It’s a great tool to utilize but a downside can be that we don’t meet personally with as many people," says Hernandez. His comments highlighted an important tension: while online platforms are powerful tools, face-to-face connections still hold a unique value that cannot be replaced. "You have to be willing to insert yourself into uncomfortable situations to understand what outcomes you want to achieve. Get specific," he added, emphasizing the need for clarity and intentionality when networking.
The impact of the evening was also felt by current students. "Prior to attending UCR, I had never attended to a formal networking event. Most of my experience was fairly informal," says Franchesca Jefferson ’23. Her reflection captures the experience of many students who are new to structured professional networking. "It was a great experience, and I plan to go to similar events hosted by the CDC in the future.” Her feedback illustrates the value of creating consistent opportunities for students to practice and refine their networking skills.
Events like this highlight the mission of the Career Development Center: to create accessible, meaningful experiences that prepare students for long-term career success. By providing tools, inviting engaged alumni, and ensuring an inclusive atmosphere, the CDC shows that networking is not just about making quick introductions but about building lasting, supportive connections. The evening was a reminder that when students, alumni, and employers come together, the result is not only professional growth but also the strengthening of the broader UCR community.
___________
Banner image: Jordan Cullen at the 2022 CDC Networking Dinner