One of the most valuable assets you can start building during your time in the 100 percent online University of Wisconsin Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology is your professional network. Whether your goal is to transition into a new role, deepen your industry knowledge, or simply expand your circle, there are many ways to connect with others in the field.
Below are some recommendations to help you grow your network as a student while in the program:
Connect With Your Instructors
Your instructors in the program are more than educators. They’re also mentors, industry experts, and champions of student success.
“I’m very passionate about students graduating, having marketable skills that they did not have entering the program, and thereby gaining the power to access career options from which they were previously excluded,” said Applied Biotechnology instructor Dr. Bob Kuzoff. “My driving philosophy is that I want to empower students to successfully access career opportunities that may be presently out of reach.”
Don’t hesitate to set up an appointment with your instructors and ask questions, or simply connect with them to learn more about their career journeys.
Reach Out to Classmates
Your fellow peers can be a great resource for networking. Applied Biotechnology students work in many different companies and organizations, including roles in healthcare, pharma, and medical technology. Graduate Jason Muljadi (‘25) enjoyed collaborating with classmates from a range of backgrounds who shared their experiences and supported one another.
“We’re all here to help you out,” he said. “Everybody here is really friendly, and they are in different aspects of biotech, which is great in itself—just the diversity and the breadth of this group of students that we have here. You can really network with them and get to know their experience. In time, it’ll help to shape your experiences as well.”
Other UW Applied Biotechnology students like Shelley Nevins (‘21) also praised the benefit of having classmates who brought their unique career experiences to online assignments. Some students like Shelley have become project managers, while others are working as lab technologists, biochemists, and research scientists. You’ll interact with your peers in group projects and on discussion boards. Both offer a great opportunity to introduce yourself and form professional connections with your classmates.
Join Our LinkedIn Group
Taking advantage of social media is another way to connect with others outside of your courses. The University of Wisconsin Applied Biotechnology Students & Alumni LinkedIn group is a moderated group that fosters connections between classmates, alumni, and instructors. The group is a place to share industry trends, job openings, and virtual events.
You can also find other biotechnology-related groups on LinkedIn where professionals share articles and offer advice.
Make the Most of Your Capstone Project
Your capstone project is a chance to showcase your skills and demonstrate value to employers. The connections you make during your project could turn into a promotion or job offer upon completing your capstone.
“Think of how you can use this project to bolster your resume or get your foot in the door at a location where you would like to secure a job,” said Applied Biotechnology instructor Dr. Michael Steury. “Offer to volunteer your time to help get experience or to establish relationships that may help you get connected with people in those locations.”
Consider your goals after graduation:
- Do you want to do research in a lab?
- Are you trying to secure a position in a biotech company?
- Do you wish to contribute to clinical research?
You can use your capstone as an opportunity to network and open doors for your career.
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Attend On-Campus Events
If you live near your home campus, you can attend events on campus. Many offer networking events, speaker series, student interest groups, and career fairs that can help you connect with others in the field. Check your home campus’ events calendar and student activities page for any upcoming events of interest.
Become a Member of an Association
Joining a professional society is a wonderful way to deepen your industry knowledge and expand your network. These associations often hold events where you can meet with others face-to-face and grow your professional connections. From regional biotech expos to national conferences, these gatherings are ideal for networking, learning about new research, and finding potential mentors.
The UW Applied Biotechnology Advisory Board has suggested the following list of professional societies that students can join:
- The American Society of Plant Biology (ASPB)
- Analytical Excellence through Industry Collaboration (AEIC)
- National Association of Plant Breeders (NAPB)
- American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)
- The Society for In Vitro Biology (SIVB)
- American Chemical Society (ACS)
- Maize Genetics Cooperation (MGC)
- Entomological Society of America (ESA)
- Weed Science Society of America (WSSA)
- American Society for Quality (ASQ)
- Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society (RAPS)
- Women in Biohealth (part of BioForward)
- International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR)
- American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy (ASGCT)
- Society of Quality Assurance (SQA)
Take Your Next Step
Networking doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. You can start small by joining a group, introducing yourself to a classmate, or attending an event. Over time, your connections will grow into a strong network that can help you reach your goals during your time in the program and beyond.
To learn more about the University of Wisconsin Master of Science in Applied Biotechnology, talk to one of our enrollment advisers by calling 608-800-6762 or emailing learn@uwex.wisconsin.edu.