How to network at university: Building skills, confidence, and career connections at Northumbria

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By Salman Ali (Foundation Year Computer Science Student, Content Creator)

Hey everyone, Salman Ali here! I am currently a Foundation Year student diving into the dynamic world of Computer Science at Northumbria University.

In just 6 months, my university journey has been nothing short of transformative – filled with opportunities to grow, connect, and step outside my comfort zone. This journey has significantly boosted my confidence and opened doors I never imagined.

I want to share what I’ve learned about networking at university so far – and how the opportunities, experiences, and support at Northumbria have helped me build professional connections – as well as develop my skills and confidence along the way. 

 

 

1. When choosing a uni, think long-term

Like many of you thinking about university, choosing the right place was a huge decision. If you're career-focused, it's important to choose somewhere that helps you develop work skills and make industry contacts.

I had these types of experiences at school and knew it was important to continue them at uni. I was part of the first student batch in the Middle East to study Cloud Computing in high school, becoming one of the youngest and first certified in the field.

I also had the incredible experience of being the only high school delegate at the Student Energy Summit in the UAE – the world's largest student energy gathering. Being in the same rooms as global figures like Bill Gates, and meeting the CEOs of TikTok and AWS, made me realise how important communication and networking skills are.

I was looking for a university where I could cultivate these skills, follow my purpose, and truly become the best version of myself. Northumbria University has been exactly that space for me.

It provides the infrastructure, the opportunities, and the push needed to step outside your comfort zone and develop those crucial life skills. My message here is clear – the tools are available, the support system is strong, and the only limit is the one you place on yourself.

 

2. Embrace every networking opportunity – on and off campus

Arriving in Newcastle as an international student just a few months ago could have been daunting, but Northumbria actively encourages engagement and helps you settle in.

One of the first major events I attended was focused on the North East space sector, sponsored by the university itself. It wasn't directly related to my degree programme, but it turned out to be an incredible opportunity to network with professionals from Airbus, the UK Space Agency, the Northeast Space Agency, and even the European Space Agency! 

Opportunities at Northumbria University extend beyond the campus. For example, the university sponsored a Common Purpose programme with Newcastle City Council. It brought together young people from across Newcastle with established leaders from various sectors.

I had the chance to network and learn from executives and professionals from major companies like Amazon and John Lewis, as well as local entrepreneurs.

It was an eye-opening experience – one that broadened my professional network significantly, enhanced my understanding of different industries, and provided insights into engagement and leadership within the wider community.

 

3. Use LinkedIn to network online at university

Encouraged by my university, I began sharing my story on LinkedIn, documenting my development, showcasing my growing skillset, and highlighting the transferable skills I’ve learned.

I also take the opportunity to tag and connect with employers I admire – in the hope of working with them in the future.

After the space event, I shared the workshop highlights on LinkedIn, tagging the connections I made and showcasing the skills and knowledge I gained. This helped me broaden my connections and opportunities.

 

4. Get support from The Business Incubator

I've always been passionate about the idea of building my own business, particularly in cloud computing technologies. So finding out that Northumbria University has a dedicated Business Incubator was a massive draw.  

Their reputation speaks for itself – consistently ranked among the top 10 UK universities for graduate startups based on turnover. I attended an Enterprise Experience – an immersive business challenge open to all students interested in enterprise skills, freelancing, and business startups. It provided a fantastic glimpse into the realities of entrepreneurship.

We explored everything from developing the right mindset (resilience, innovation, risk assessment) to the practical actions needed to launch a startup in the UK. It wasn't just theory, it was about understanding the journey.

The experience was so impactful that I've now officially enrolled in the Incubator program to develop my own startup idea. This initiative provided practicality in business, reinforced the importance of strategic thinking, and gave me access to invaluable mentorship and resources.

 

5. Use Graduate Futures – the uni careers service

Northumbria also provides dedicated support for skill development through its Graduate Futures team.

Whether you need help refining your CV, practising interview techniques, or identifying key skills, they offer one-to-one sessions, regular in-person and online workshops, and a wealth of online courses.

It shows Northumbria University’s goal isn't just academic success, it's about shaping you into the best version of yourself, ready to lead and make a difference.

They provide the structure to continuously learn and grow those vital soft skills, improve your mindset, and enhance your adaptability. It’s up to you to act on that.

 

6. Build skills and connections through student societies

University is about more than academics; it’s also about personal growth.

At Northumbria, I joined the water polo team with no experience, but the support from Northumbria Sport and the team was incredible. I committed, learned quickly, and will be lead goalkeeper next year. 

This let me meet a range of students from other courses, and taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to handle pressure. These are all skills I can use in my career.

I’ve been on the committee for the Bahrain Society too, helping organise events and support members. These experiences led to me being named Student of the Year (2025) and recognised for Exceptional Involvement in Sport and Society (2025).

These achievements reflect not just academic progress, but the personal and professional growth I have experienced through active participation and a willingness to learn.

 

The takeaway: your university experience is what you make it

Build your network, grow your skills, and take that first step toward becoming who you aspire to be. If I could do all this in just six months of my foundation year, imagine what you can achieve in your time at university!

 

Boost your employability at Northumbria University

Northumbria University offers lots of opportunities to boost your employability and get career-confident – from networking events and careers advice like Salman enjoyed, to practical hands-on experience called ‘experiential learning’.

Experiential learning is about putting your new skills into practice in real-world contexts. Depending on your choice of degree, you might take part in a work placement, live project, simulations, lab work, and more. 

Find out more on our Experiential Learning Hub.