ABSTRACT

For many people, attending college or university is a new experience with differing rules, processes, procedures, and expectations. Navigating these differences and changes can be challenging – although less so when you’ve developed connections and a supportive network of people to answer questions, provide feedback, and brainstorm with. This is the first of two chapters that focus on relationships, post-secondary education, and your career. This chapter focuses on professional relationships – those at the institution, among your peers, and otherwise building a professional support network. As these may be the first professional relationships that you develop, this chapter will attempt to introduce you to the types of individuals, the ways in which they may be helpful to you, and methods for developing the connections you need to be your best self.