Attend a networking event.

“As a student attendee and the photographer, I had the ability both to jump into conversations and to observe as a fly on the wall. It is definitely intimidating to walk up to a group of people already chatting, to interrupt, and to introduce yourself, but if you watch a networking event, everybody does it – it’s the norm. Whether I was the one walking up to a group or I was in the group and someone joined, no one was ever turned away. Personally, I love talking to people and listening to what they have to say. My biggest fear is being ignored and being the odd one out. I think many people have the same fear. In the beginning of a networking event, you may feel a little out of place and inclined to leave, but if you gather the courage to walk up and talk to someone, you will realize it is not as bad as it seems.”