What if a casual conversation on a bus could change the entire course of your career?
That’s exactly what happened to me—and it all started because I wanted to break out of my shell.

Back in 2015, I was a shy college student at Fanshawe, struggling with communication and often overwhelmed in social settings. To challenge myself, I signed up as a Fanshawe Online Ambassador—a volunteer position I hoped would help me come out of my comfort zone.

What I didn’t expect was that this small step would ignite a life-changing journey, one that led me to my dream job, lifelong friendships, and a deep appreciation for the power of networking.

The Unexpected Start

While the ambassador role didn’t come with a paycheck, it gave me something far more valuable: confidence, community, and connection. I started making friends, learning how to engage with people, and slowly, the fear of speaking up started to fade.

Fast forward a few months—I was on a city bus when I ran into a senior from the same ambassador program. We got talking, and I casually mentioned I was job hunting. That quick chat led to a referral for a web developer position. Even though I was initially rejected, the hiring manager noticed my eagerness to learn and offered me an entry-level opportunity. That became the launchpad for my tech career.

The True Essence of Networking

Networking isn’t just about LinkedIn requests or exchanging business cards at events. It’s about building real, human connections that are rooted in mutual respect and a willingness to help one another grow.

Here are a few tips I’ve gathered over the years that truly work:

• Be Genuine: People respond to authenticity. Don’t try to impress—just be you.
• Listen First: Real connections come from understanding, not just self-promotion.
• Follow Up: A thoughtful message after meeting someone makes all the difference.
• Offer Help: Whether it’s advice, a resource, or a simple intro—give before you ask.
• Be Consistent: Relationships need nurturing. Stay in touch.
• Think Long-Term: Good networking is about planting seeds, not instant rewards.
• Prioritize Quality: One meaningful connection is worth more than 20 surface-level ones.
• Diversify Your Network: Every new perspective adds value.
• Do Your Homework: Know who you’re talking to—context builds confidence.
• Brand Yourself: Keep your online presence sharp and aligned with your goals.

A Personal Highlight

One of my favorite networking moments happened when I reached out to James Smith, a self-proclaimed networking guru on LinkedIn. I was looking for guidance, and not only did he respond—he invited me to meet up and introduced me to a network of mentors who’ve helped shape my career.

Volunteering at his Power Up London events pre-COVID gave me hands-on networking experience. I met professionals from all walks of life—including an author who inspired me to start writing again just by believing in my storytelling skills.

From Fanshawe to George Brown

My journey didn’t end there. At George Brown College, I’ve met classmates with wildly different skillsets and learned from professors who genuinely care. In particular, Wendy Greenwood’s Digital Media Marketing Seminar Series opened up new ways to connect with industry leaders through weekly guest speakers who shared real-world advice and career insights.

From that first nervous step as an online ambassador to confidently navigating networking events and building lasting professional relationships—I’ve come a long way.

My story proves that networking isn’t reserved for extroverts or seasoned professionals. It’s for anyone who’s willing to be vulnerable, curious, and consistent.

So here’s my message to you: Don’t underestimate where a single connection can lead. That friendly conversation on the bus? It could be the doorway to your next big opportunity. Keep connecting. Keep growing. And always be open to what’s possible.