Network Matters is a career readiness program open to all undergraduate and graduate students. We help you build professional skills, confidence, and networks through sustained community, practice, and employer engagement. Workshops run continuously across multiple semesters, and all members have access. Think of it as an ongoing professional development community, not a one-off workshop.
How is this different from my university's career center?
Career centers provide valuable advice and appointments. Network Matters provides sustained community and repeated practice. You're practicing skills with real employers over and over, not just once. It's the difference between a one-time coaching session and joining a gym with a personal trainer.
Is this only for business majors?
Absolutely not. Network Matters works for engineers, humanities students, scientists, artists, and everyone in between. Professional skills (networking, communication, interviewing) matter regardless of your major.
Student Questions
How much time does this require?
One workshop every two weeks (2 hours each). Plus optional MattersBot practice on your schedule. Total: about 4-5 hours per month. Manageable even with a full course load.
I'm an introvert. Will I fit in?
Most of our best students are introverts. We teach authentic relationship-building, not transactional networking. Introverts often excel at one-on-one connections once they have a framework and practice.
What if I can't afford $100/semester?
We have scholarships available. Apply and indicate financial need in your application. We'll work with you to make it happen.
Who is eligible to join?
Network Matters is open to all undergraduate and graduate students. Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors, and graduate students are all welcome.
What is MattersBot?
MattersBot is our AI career coach that lets you practice networking conversations, interviews, and workplace scenarios 24/7 in a judgment-free environment.
Employer Questions
How much time does sponsorship require from our team?
It's flexible based on your tier. Minimum: 2 networking events per year. Higher tiers include workshop guest speaking and mentorship. Most sponsors dedicate 1-2 employees as liaisons.
Can we hire directly from Network Matters?
Yes. Sponsors get priority access to the student resume book and can recruit directly. Many sponsors use Network Matters as their primary early career pipeline.
What's the ROI?
If you avoid even one bad early career hire ($15K-$30K cost), sponsorship pays for itself. Plus you build a talent pipeline, improve employer brand, and reduce management time teaching basics.
Program Details
What happens if I miss a workshop?
Life happens. We record workshops and provide materials. But consistent attendance matters for building relationships and skills. Aim for 80% attendance minimum.
Is this credit-bearing?
No, Network Matters is not part of your academic program and doesn't offer credit. It's a co-curricular program focused on professional skill development.
How long do I need to stay involved?
There's no fixed commitment period. Workshops run continuously across multiple semesters and are available to all members. The more you show up, the more you get out of it.