Gateway student’s experience showcases the power of networking
Gateway student Jacob Ward believes it’s important to make meaningful connections in college – and it all starts by just being a friend.
Forming relationships with fellow students, Gateway staff and faculty members has benefited Jacob as an IT - Data Analytics student as well as helping him land a role as a peer advisor and secure a great job for the city of Racine. It also helped him in the STEM Scholars program – which pays for tuition, fees, books and supplies for students to earn a degree in one of several science, engineering or information technology-related fields.
“Another student in the STEM Scholars program got hired as a student worker the same day I did,” says Jacob. “At first, we just had a work relationship. But it’s turned into a close friendship.
“He’s in a different program than me – it’s the IT - Cybersecurity Specialist program. And I know that if me or a friend of mine has a question about cybersecurity in the future, I can say, ‘Hey, I know a guy who can help.’”
Rather than wait until entering your career, Jacob thinks it’s key for students to build their circle now. “Reach out to each other, reach out to your instructors – this is the best time. It doesn’t have to be professional networking, just simply making friends.
“Put yourself out there and be social. This is one of your best chances to get that done before the daily grind of work starts.”
Jacob’s formed several special bonds during his time here – starting with his English Composition instructor, who he describes as a “wonderful teacher.”
”She helped me a lot during my first semester of college, which was hard,” says Jacob. “Having that freedom was a blessing, but also challenging because I had to rely on myself. She was there and listened to my concerns.
“Even after that semester ended, we met up time and time again. I’m hoping to check in before I graduate too.”
In addition to great guidance in the classroom, he says his strong relationship with his academic advisor helped him to stay on course for graduation.
“She was always always rallying behind me, ensuring I was on the right track for on-time graduation. I give her lots of credit for helping me to finish up and move on.”
Two other strong relationships he’s formed have led to wonderful resume-boosting jobs. The head of Gateway’s STEM Scholars program reached out to see if he was interested in being a peer advisor at Gateway. And, after one short interview, the job was his.
And, more recently, he connected with a Gateway student employment and work-based learning specialist who he’d gotten to know during his time as a peer advisor.
“She told me about a great opportunity working for the city of Racine and even helped me update and fine-tune my resume – which, I have to say, looks very impressive. I landed the job and have been working there for a few months.”
With plans to further his education and earn a four-year degree – and continue his new job in Racine – Jacob’s future is looking big and bright thanks to his hard work and some friends he’s made along the way.