Listening for God’s direction in moments of conversation and connection.
For many students, the holiday season brings a welcome pause from classes, assignments and deadlines. It is a time to rest, reflect and reconnect with the people who matter most.
For members of Concordia’s most recent graduating class, this season also marks a meaningful transition — one filled with new questions, new responsibilities and new possibilities.
Whether students are preparing for their final semester or stepping into life as alumni, the holidays invite attentiveness. They offer space to listen for God’s direction in everyday conversations and relationships that may shape what comes next.
At Concordia, vocation is understood not simply as a career choice but as a calling rooted in faith, service and stewardship.
“Networking is one of the most effective ways to connect your potential with future vocational opportunities,” said Danielle Weith, assistant director of advising. “When others know who you are and what you value, they are more likely to remember you and support you. This is also where our alumni are invaluable, as their connections with students extend far beyond monetary donations.”
With that understanding, networking becomes less about advancement and more about discernment. As students and recent graduates engage in conversations over the holidays, they are also called to care for themselves and others by practicing wisdom, boundaries and safety in every setting.
1. Begin with the people already in your circle
Some of the most meaningful connections are already part of students’ lives. Family members, neighbors, church communities and trusted family friends bring insight shaped by experience and faith. For recent graduates, these conversations often provide reassurance during a season of change.
Listening well honors both the relationship and personal well-being. Students and alumni should trust their instincts, remain aware of their surroundings and remember that meaningful connection does not require oversharing.
2. Approach conversations with humility and discernment
Strong relationships grow from genuine interest and care. Enter conversations with humility by asking questions and listening closely rather than focusing on outcomes. This posture reflects a Lutheran understanding of vocation, where God works through relationships and ordinary interactions.
Discernment also includes knowing when to pause or redirect a conversation. Setting boundaries is a sign of wisdom, especially during a season when gatherings and conversations are frequent.
3. Reconnect with intention and gratitude
The holidays are a natural time to reconnect with former supervisors, internship mentors or alumni. For members of the newest graduating class, these relationships can offer guidance as professional life begins to take shape.
Weith said that even when students are not connecting with individuals in their specific program or field, it is important to learn how others found success or overcame setbacks, as those experiences can offer valuable steps to consider across multiple industries.
During the holidays, a brief message wishing someone a blessed season and sharing a short update can build connection without pressure. Using trusted platforms and maintaining professionalism helps ensure interactions remain respectful and safe.
4. Use social platforms with care and integrity
Social media can be a helpful tool for staying connected during the holidays. Updating a LinkedIn profile, engaging with Concordia alumni posts or sharing service-related experiences allows students and recent graduates to remain visible and engaged.
Mindfulness matters. Privacy settings, tone and content should reflect personal values and respect for self and others, particularly as students transition into professional roles.
5. Be prepared to share your story thoughtfully
Networking moments can arise unexpectedly — at church events, community gatherings or family celebrations. Being able to briefly explain who you are, what you studied and what you are discerning next helps conversations unfold naturally.
For new graduates, this story may still be forming, and that is OK. Speaking honestly while honoring personal boundaries reflects confidence grounded in faith.
6. Follow up with care and responsibility
After the holidays, following up with those who offered advice or encouragement helps turn conversations into lasting relationships.
Weith said students are often encouraged to use an “elevator pitch” to quickly communicate their talents, interests and values, adding that follow-up is essential for maintaining connections.
For students and alumni alike, consistency and care build trust over time. A brief thank-you note or message in January demonstrates respect and stewardship, reflecting readiness for life beyond the classroom.
The holiday season offers students and recent graduates a quieter opportunity to build connections grounded in faith, discernment and care for one another. By listening for God’s direction, prioritizing safety and honoring vocation, Concordia students continue forward — rooted in purpose and guided by grace.
Additional resources
- Check out this article, “The importance of networking, according to a career center professional”
- Sign up for a Handshake account: Handshake is the largest internship and job search platform designed for college students, and at Concordia your academic and career engagement advisor recommends completing one to three internships to complement coursework, explore how your gifts and talents are used in the workplace, and gain access to thousands of internship and full-time opportunities in Wisconsin and nationwide.
- Alumni Mentor Program: Network with fellow Falcons for guidance, support and advice around vocation and careers
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.