Career Connections is a database of over 5,000 Washington University alumni, parents and friends who have identified themselves as individuals willing to assist students in career path research.

This database is available to all currently enrolled Washington University students and all alums who have agreed to become participants.

Students will be required to enter their last name and student ID number (not Social Security Number) to gain access.

If you forgot your student ID, go to WebStack, select "Class Schedule" and enter your Social Security Number and PIN.

Contacts can be searched based on:

• occupation or specialty
• geographical area (city or state)
• undergraduate major (if completed at Washington University)
• graduate school
• graduate program
• employer
• any combination of the above

Using the database:

• You can collect a total of 20 contacts per search (randomly selected)
• Contacts are put into your "personal notebook", which enables you to keep track of your contacts, the results of your meetings, and any follow-up required
• Notebooks can be downloaded and saved allowing you a limitless number of additional searches and notebooks to add to your files

Keep in mind as you contact alumni:

• Depending on the information provided, you may reach a contact by email, mail or by phone
• Before making the initial contact, think about what you want from the experience, familiarize yourself with their company and plan some questions to ask
• It may be wise to send an introductory letter or email, followed by a phone call to schedule a convenient time to talk
• When scheduling an informational interview, be flexible about your own schedule and ask how much time they will be able to commit to your discussion
• Before your meeting is over, ask if they can recommend others (either acquaintances in the field or other employees at their company) who might be helpful to you
• After your discussion or meeting, send a thank you note expressing your gratitude
• When you have secured a position, follow up with the individual to let them know that their guidance was helpful

Link to the Career Connections