Networking when you have no network.

First message, same school alum, similar role

Hi [Name],

[School] alum here, currently a junior in [Major]. Saw your path: from [Prev Role] to [Current Role] at [Company], that's basically the trajectory I'm aiming for.

I'm prepping applications for summer 2026 [Role] internships. One question if you have 60 seconds: what's the single thing you wish you'd done differently between sophomore year and your first internship?

Thanks for reading either way.

Best,
[Your name]
[School] '[Year]

Why it works: Specific (their path, your year). One question. Easy to answer in 30 seconds. No call ask. Reply rate ~25%.

Reply when they answer

Thanks so much, [Name], that's actually super useful, especially the bit about [paraphrase what they said]. Following up on it now.

Quick last ask: I'm targeting [Company] for summer. Is there anyone on the team who might be open to a 15-min chat? Happy to keep the ask tight, couple of role questions, no warm-intro vibes if that's awkward.

If not, all good, appreciate the help already.

Best,
[Your name]

Why it works: Acknowledge specifically. Don't ask for an intro yet, ask for a name. Lower friction.

Cold connection note (when LinkedIn limits you to 200 chars)

Hi [Name], [School] '[Year] here, prepping summer [Role] applications. Saw your path from [X] → [Y]. Would love to connect + ask one quick question if you're open.

Why it works: 200 chars exactly. Mentions school + year + their path. "One quick question" sets expectation.

Coffee chat ask after 1 reply exchange

Hey [Name],

This was super helpful, thank you. If you're open, I'd love to do a 15-min coffee chat (or virtual / async over LinkedIn, whichever works for you). I'd come prepared:

1. [Specific question about their team]
2. [Specific question about the path / interview process]
3. [Specific question about a project they shipped recently]

Totally fine if not, happy to keep this in DMs.

Best,
[Your name]

Why it works: Three questions written out = they know exactly what they're agreeing to. No "pick your brain" or "learn from your journey." Time-boxed.

After they referred you / the interview happened

Hi [Name],

Just wanted to close the loop, I [interviewed last week / got an offer / got a rejection / made it to round 2]. Either way: thank you for the [intro / advice / time]. I genuinely think it changed my outcome.

If there's ever something I can help you with, small or weird, let me know. I'd like to be useful back, even if it's just "tell me which CS class you're TA-ing and I'll send you my best students."

Best,
[Your name]

Why it works: Close the loop unprompted. Most students never do this. It's why your alum will help the NEXT student differently, the relationship is real.