LinkedIn for Students: Start Your Professional Journey Early
Tags: beginners, career, learning, community
Published: 2023-09-13 20:17:00

Are you a college student looking to jump-start your professional journey? Look no further than LinkedIn. 

LinkedIn might seem to be primarily for professionals, but it has a lot of potential for college students as well, and it has numerous benefits for them as well.

## What is LinkedIn?

LinkedIn is a popular social network with a specific purpose. It is all about professional networking, that is - building a group of contacts that will help you advance in your career. 

Think of it as a digital career portfolio. Unlike a static paper resume, LinkedIn lets you showcase your skills, experience, and achievements in real time. 


![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/0zgtsa7rkj0gey6ontp6.png)


*Here’s why having a LinkedIn profile is advantageous and how it can help you lay the foundation for a successful career.*

## - Networking : 

As a student, you can create valuable connections and widen your networks. You can start by locating your friends, coworkers, colleagues, classmates, and mentors. 

Networking can help you branch out in the industry you want to work in.  It will help you discover more about people you have met or intend to meet. Connecting with industry professionals, professors, and alumni can provide guidance, mentorship, and job referrals.


![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/mkk374j8mc4rnmg8i2xq.jpg)


## - Opportunities :

One of the most significant advantages of LinkedIn is the ability to discover potential internships, jobs, and volunteer opportunities. You can also follow companies and organizations of interest, and stay up to date on industry trends and job openings. It is an excellent source for conducting company research.

## - Open learning :

LinkedIn Learning provides a wide range of courses and tutorials covering various topics, including business, technology, creative skills, and many more. With a vast library of courses, you can explore topics beyond your major, which will help you become a well-rounded professional. 

These courses also offer a certificate of completion, which can be added to your profile and resume, making them more appealing to potential employers.


![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/xvtv20128ebtyv57o38y.jpg)


## - Brand Yourself : 

LinkedIn is a platform where you can showcase your skills, experiences, and accomplishments. You can build a professional profile and build your brand. You can add your education, work experience, volunteer experience, noteworthy class projects, and other achievements.

You can also participate in discussions and share your thoughts and insights on industry topics by writing articles or by commenting on posts. This will help you establish yourself as an expert in your field.

## - Endorsements : 

Endorsement is an excellent way of showcasing your skills and expertise. You can ask your connections to endorse you for skills you want to highlight. This can help you stand out in the crowd and increase your chances of getting noticed by potential employers.


![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/xrt5cqg7w90eicbtrn42.png)


In conclusion, LinkedIn is a potent tool for college students who want to kick-start their careers and expand their professional network. There is no telling when a connection will come in handy, and the bigger your network, the more opportunities for job referrals.

Whether you're looking for internships, or job opportunities, or simply want to learn more about your desired industry, LinkedIn can be an invaluable resource. 

So, start using it today, and start building your future!