How to build a professional network: The power of the Olin MBA alumni community

In the realm of business, the power of connections cannot be overstated.

The MBA alumni network at Olin Business School is a formidable asset for learning and career advancement. Through the experiences of Mason Bikshorn, PMBA 2023, and Susie Bonwich, MBA 2021, we delve into building a professional network. They share their experiences on engaging with this deeply rooted network and how it has been pivotal in shaping their journeys at Olin and beyond.

Practical strategies for building your network and engaging with alumni

Below, we share invaluable insights from Mason and Susie on how to effectively tap into and benefit from the Olin alumni network. Their advice serves as a roadmap for leveraging this dynamic community to foster growth and success.

Engage with industry professionals

The alumni network serves as a robust resource, offering a platform for you to share and refine your ideas as you progress through the program. Remember, these alumni are eager to help, often relishing the chance to guide current students—recalling their own experiences. Having ventured into various sectors, such as businesses, startups and large enterprises, they bring a treasure trove of insights that can provide students with practical knowledge and enhance their problem-solving capabilities.

The active involvement of Olin alumni with current students offers a unique opportunity to build a professional network even during undergraduate studies. Susie echoes this sentiment: "The difference with the full-time program is that you're going to classes all the time. I think you're able to take advantage of that network even more because 50 to 60 percent, maybe even more, of class time is dedicated to teaching you how to network, providing you with networking events." She goes on to say how the Center for Experiential Learning (CEL) is a hub for networking opportunities through options like the CEL Entrepreneurial Consulting Team and the Taylor Community Consulting Program, among others.

Lean on your peers

Not only does the alumni network provide valuable knowledge and expertise, but current students in your program will also be a part of your alumni network someday. Sharing ideas and collaborating with peers is a great way to begin building and utilizing your network. Mason shares his experience collaborating with Susie, "As I was completing my PMBA, we were working very closely together at New + Found."

I would go to class at night, and I would come in the next morning, able to apply things right away and ping ideas off Susie based on her experiences in the full-time program.  

Mason Bikshorn

"I was very fortunate to be able to leverage and lean on Susie and her experience."

Accept the invite

Olin offers events, workshops and seminars organized by the alumni network. These gatherings are not just about networking; they're opportunities to learn from the experiences of others and to stay updated on industry trends. Susie points to the importance of participating in alumni events and programs. "Those foundation programs that get together annually, those are things that I want to personally start getting more involved in... WashU does a great job of reaching out."

Get involved post-grad

Not only does the Olin alumni network serve students in their MBA program, but the alumni network also provides access to both immediate and lasting networking opportunities. Mason has found the period after graduation to be the perfect time to truly delve into the network he couldn't fully engage with as a student due to his work and personal commitments in the PMBA program. "Now that I am done, I can lean into the Olin network even more than during my two and a half years as a student," he shares, underscoring the enduring benefit of his MBA networking connections.

The Olin alumni network stands as a key ingredient in forging strong business connections that enhance both the academic experience and professional trajectory post-graduation. Engaging with this community enriches the MBA journey, providing a foundational network of support, insight, and opportunity that continues to benefit Olin students and alumni long after graduation.