Why You Should Start Building Your Network in College

Networking is a popular buzzword in the working world, but what is it, and why should students start in college? Networking means using the contacts in your life to help get career advice, tips on job openings, and even referrals. Studies show that 60 to 90 percent of jobs are found as a result of personal contacts (friends, relatives, and other connections), so networking is advantageous and should begin in your college career. 

Here are five ways to start networking as an undergraduate:

Winning from the Sideline

Guest post by Grant McClure. McClure is from Arlington, Virginia, and graduated from Davidson College in 2017 with a major in math and a minor in computer science. He now works for Red Ventures, a data analytics and technology company outside of Charlotte, NC.

How to get Industry Experience Before Graduating

Students with mathematics degrees are already setting themselves apart in the job market, but there are even more opportunities for a math student to become a desirable employee before even graduating.

For those who are interested in a mathematical career solving problems in industry, take advantage of these opportunities to build your resume while you are an undergraduate:

Apply: Postdoctoral Position at Institute for Pure and Applied Mathematics

Job Posted: July 21, 2017

The Institute for Pure and Applied Mathematics (IMPA) invites applications for a one-year post-doctoral position (renewable) with a monthly stipend of BRL 8.900,00 (after taxes). The position is intended for young researchers working on Applied Mathematics. Applications focusing on mathematical methods for solving problems of interest to some productive sector in Brazil are particularly welcome. Candidates with doctorates in other Mathematics areas are encouraged to apply.

 

How to Get the Most Mileage Out of Your First Poster or Presentation

You have done all the work, put in the practice, and now the time has come to present your research at MAA MathFest in Chicago. Whether you are presenting a poster or giving an oral presentation, this is your time to shine, and make sure you are noticed by other mathematicians.

Here are 5 suggestions to use your presentation to leverage your networking and professional relationships.

On Math, Career, and Life

Q&A with Deanna Haunsperger, MAA President

Mathematics professor Deanna Haunsperger of Carleton College in Northfield, MN is the new president of the Mathematical Association of America (MAA). As president of the MAA, Haunsperger leads the world’s largest community of mathematicians, students, and enthusiasts. We are thrilled to have Haunsperger answer our questions about her career as a mathematician and educator, and what she hopes to accomplish for the mathematics community.

Top Paying College Majors Lead to STEM Fields

For college students deciding on a major, one factor to consider is potential salary coming out of college. STEM majors have the highest salaries in the five years after graduating college according to a 2016 report.

Glassdoor, a job search company, analyzed more than a hundred thousand resumes and salary reports to determine which majors have the highest starting salaries after graduation.