The alumni association to which you’ll one day belong may seem irrelevant to you now. But chances are, it contains a powerhouse of guidance, ideas, mentorship, and contacts you’ll find useful now as well as after graduation.

Many universities’ alumni, both recent and mature, feel they have a common bond: their alma mater. School is the commonality they share. Some feel quite strongly about their school and the shared bond.

That can work to your benefit. That’s why it’s a good idea to get acquainted with the alumni in your college town, those in your hometown, and others in a city in which you may have interest in living, one day.

Approaching an alumnus properly may even be flattering to them! For that matter, a lot of universities have established programs wherein alumni volunteer to meet with, and advise, students.

An alum of your university is likely to take your calls and make time to answer your questions about the “real world,” her/his occupation and industry, to make suggestions about your coursework, offer you career guidance, and even internships.

In a like sense, many of those same alumni when hiring, will favor candidates from the school to which they’re loyal, if all other qualities and qualifications are equal.

It’s worthwhile stopping in the office of the alumni Association and connecting with each local chapter’s leadership. It’s not too soon to attend Association meetings to get involved–especially if you plan to graduate from the school you’re attending now!