My Journey to the U.S.: What I Wish I Knew
How to build a network as an international student pursuing a music business career
When I just started my Master’s program at NYU Music Business as an international student, I always dreamt of the many exciting opportunities offered in the US to build my career. However, when the time came to find myself an internship in New York City, I realized how competitive and challenging this journey could be. After exploring my options for the last year and finally landing a position that fits me, here are the most important lessons I learned along the way.
Networking, Networking, Networking!
While credentials and intellect are essential factors when searching for a job, having or creating connections can be the one thing that actually secures you that position. Through talking to the right people, even if you don’t get a referral, you could still learn from them about the hiring process, work experience, and the company’s specific expectations in advance, which gives you an advantage while preparing. However, a meaningful network isn’t built overnight, it requires proactive and consistent effort. Here are some tips to help you become more confident in networking as an international student:
1. Build an Authentic and Professional Online Presence
Every country has its own network platform that they may use, but LinkedIn is by far the most important profile you should build when residing in the U.S. I once saw an employer who viewed my profile right before we went into the interview. It reminds me that in this digital era, an online presence could be the first impression people get from you, even before meeting you in person. Once you've made your online presence more professional and authentic to your goals, it makes it much easier for recruiters or anyone to connect with your aspirations and guide you toward a fitting position. It took me a while to figure out how to make the most of LinkedIn. It was helpful to look for hacks (here’s an example from LinkedIn’s official blog) and seek suggestions from school career resources if available.
Having a profile that highlights your experience, skills, strengths, and concentration is the key. If you’re a creative individual, you should also prepare an online portfolio showcasing all of your work up to now to prove your growth as an artist or creator. Shout out to the current tool I use for my portfolio, Linktree, which has been an easy, free, and straightforward way to present my work.
2. Start from Your Social Circles
People you’ve already known in your life could already be valuable contacts. Make sure to connect with your professors, fellow students, and alumni. I remembered when I was really struggling to find an internship in the first year, I was hesitant at first to go to one of my professors for help, but once I attended one of his office hours he kindly connected me with someone in the industry that might be able to help. This was one of the first steps I took to reach out and prepare myself for the professional world.
Another huge learning moment for me was when I applied for an internship at one of the major music labels. Because the company didn’t post specific job descriptions for each of the enrolling positions, I reached out to a fellow student who had been interning there, and through this connection, he introduced me to the current individual in the position I was applying for! Being able to get on the phone with this person allowed me to gain so much insight into their specific hiring process, and the things I should focus on when submitting my cover letter or resume, or even interviewing.
These experiences really made me realize that even if your initial social circle could not provide direct help, they might be able to connect you with someone who will, especially since the music industry is much smaller than you'd think. Be genuine and care about your existing social circles, get involved, and know what’s going on.
3. Attend Music Industry Events and Programs
While it's important to actively connect with people online, a more efficient way to meet new people is by attending industry events and programs.
To name a few I experienced in New York, volunteering at Mondo NYC Conference, attending She Is The Music workshops, and most recently Music Forward Foundation All Access Fest, I got to speak with lots of peers and also connected with active professionals in the industry.
Here’s more information on three organizations to keep an eye on. They host events or provide mentorship programs to support young people’s music business career paths:
“As part of the House of Blues and Live Nation Entertainment family, Music Forward inspires ambition and creates momentum to redefine what’s possible for young people and the industry we serve. Focusing on young people ages 13-24 in underserved communities, we set the stage for success by providing workshops and showcases to inspire the next generation of music industry leaders, innovators, and artists.”
“The GRAMMY U program has always aimed to provide college students with much-needed access to the often exclusive music industry. Through initiatives like the mentorship program, "Meet the Board" mixers, and SoundChecks with major artists, GRAMMY U has opened the door to future industry professionals. It also was created to foster those who would hopefully become the future of the Recording Academy.”
“SITM is a nonprofit organization increasing the number of women working in music – songwriters, engineers, producers, artists, and industry. Professionals. Programs include an all-women songwriting series, industry database of women creators and mentorship program, with more to come. Our initiatives serve women in the industry today while fostering the development of future generations.”
Additionally, you could find some more industry conferences in this article that we posted before (5 Music Industry Showcases That Are Not SXSW).
4. Research and Reach Out!
I know it might seem daunting at first, but don’t hesitate to reach out to people after an event. However, you should do the research and plan your request to connect properly. When you sincerely put yourself out there, it usually works! When I attended a panel, I was impressed by the moderator and therefore researched her on LinkedIn. I sent a request with a note telling her how I appreciated her panel and career path, briefly introduced myself, and asked for a connection, which she actually accepted!
While each case could be different, these are some straightforward rules I always keep in mind when reaching out to someone on LinkedIn or email:
Remind them who you are, but don’t make it about yourself only.
Learn about what they do and let them know what you appreciate.
Give a reason for wishing to connect and be authentic.
After going through the journey in search of an internship as an international student, I wish I had someone give me all of these tips and tricks. After all, one of the biggest challenges of moving to another country is making connections basically from scratch. Especially when the music industry is always changing in a place as dynamic as the U.S., knowing the right people is essential to developing your career. Therefore, I hope you’ll find these tips and tricks helpful to start building steady connections and kick off your career. Best of luck, music enthusiasts!
Sources:
How to Build You Network as a First Generation Student
How to Master the Art of Networking
20 steps to a better LinkedIn profile in 2023
GRAMMY U Conference Timeline: How The Student-Run Con Changed GRAMMY U For The Better