Networking Email to an Alumni
The mistake most students make is asking for a job. The email that actually gets a reply asks for advice — fifteen minutes of someone's time to hear how they got where they are. People love talking about their own path, and that's your opening.
The basic template
Subject: [University] student — would love your advice on [field]
Hi [First name],
I'm a [year] [major] student at [University], and I came across your profile because you work in [field]. I'm really interested in heading in a similar direction, and I'd love to hear a bit about your path into it.
Would you be open to a short call or a few questions over email? I know you're busy, so even 15 minutes would mean a lot — and no worries at all if now isn't a good time.
Thanks so much,
[Your name]
A shorter version
Hi [First name],
I'm a fellow [University] student exploring [field], and I saw you've built a career in it. If you ever have 15 minutes, I'd be grateful for a quick chat about how you got started.
No pressure at all — thank you for considering it.
Best,
[Your name]
Three things that help
- Lead with the shared school. It's the reason you're emailing, and it builds instant context.
- Ask for advice, not a job. This one shift changes the entire response rate.
- Make the ask small. "Fifteen minutes" or "a few questions over email" is easy to say yes to.
Come to the conversation with a few real questions, not a pitch. The best networking conversations end with you learning something useful — and sometimes, months later, an introduction that helps you land somewhere.
Prepping questions and notes?
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