If you’ve ever been on Cal Poly’s campus and heard a group of passionate, driven women discussing anything from career goals to community projects, chances are, they’re probably in the Cal Poly Women’s Network Club (CPWNC). More than just a student organization, CPWNC is a thriving community dedicated to empowering women through mentorship, leadership and connection.
But what really happens behind the scenes of one of Cal Poly’s most impactful clubs? I sat down with member Natalie Romero to get an exclusive look.
“I stopped by one of their pop-up booths my sophomore year,” Natalie said. “I was really interested because it’s all about women’s empowerment, networking, and leveraging our resources to connect other girls to industry professionals.”
From that moment on, Natalie dove into The Women’s Network Club and never looked back.
Not Just for Business Majors
CPWNC opens its doors to women from every college and major.
“That’s what makes this club so special,” Romero says. “It’s not just for business majors. It’s for everyone, including engineering, psychology and liberal arts. We’re really equitable and diverse [in membership], and that makes the networking experience even stronger.”
She points to one of her favorite club moments, which was hearing from an industry speaker in engineering who discussed how marketing, HR, and team management all intersect in the STEM world. “As a business major, I would’ve never thought about how I fit into that space,” she said. “But that moment opened my eyes.”
Real-World Readiness Starts Here
The club hosts an impressive lineup of events designed to bridge the gap between campus life and career life. Think LinkedIn bootcamps, speaker panels, and resume reviews. Plus, plenty of tips on landing internships and standing out in interviews.
“At its core, this club is about instilling confidence,” Romero explains. “We want girls to walk into the workforce on day one and feel prepared.”
One recent pop-up event even led to an internship opportunity for club members, which came directly from a visiting speaker impressed by the club’s mission.
“She told me she wanted to offer the internship to our members because we were so open to different majors,” Romero said. “It was one of those full-circle moments that proved why I’m involved.”
Building Bonds Beyond Business
Of course, it’s not all resumes and networking. CPWNC knows the value of bonding, too. Members regularly gather for socials like In-N-Out runs and sunset picnics, creating real friendships that extend beyond the professional atmosphere.
“Each meeting has giveaways or food, which is fun and low-pressure,” Romero said. “You don’t have to join or pay to attend. I always tell girls: Just show up and check out the vibes. You never know where it might take you.”
A Growing Legacy
Natalie also proudly notes that CPWNC is part of the largest women’s networking organization for college students in North America. With national partnerships and high-profile guest speakers, the club connects members with a broader look at support and inspiration.
“At the end of the day, it’s about celebrating ambition,” she said. “We want our members to know that your voice matters, your path is valid, and your future is limitless.”
Final Word
If you’re looking for a sign to get involved, this is it. Whether you’re eyeing a certain internship or just want a community that really gets you, the Cal Poly Women’s Network Club is here for it.
As Natalie puts it, “With passion and a strong network, you can go so far in your career, whatever field you choose.”