If you’ve ever walked into an e-board mixer and felt that wave of nervous energy hit, you’re not alone. Standing in a room full of leaders can be intimidating, but it’s also one of the best opportunities to connect, learn, and grow. These events aren’t just about handing out resumes or securing a position; they’re about building relationships that can shape your college experience and career path.
1. Do Your Homework Before You Arrive
Before stepping into the mixer, take time to research the organizations and executive board members who’ll be there. Familiarize yourself with their missions, goals, and recent projects. Knowing a little background helps you ask thoughtful questions and show genuine interest. For example, if you’re passionate about women’s empowerment, learn about the initiatives run by groups like Her Campus or Her Fitness so you can start conversations that feel natural and purposeful.
2. Perfect Your Introduction
First impressions matter. Have a short, confident introduction ready, something that includes your name, year, major, and a quick mention of your interests or goals. For instance: “Hi, I’m Azaria, a freshman majoring in political science. I’m passionate about leadership and campus involvement, and I’m hoping to learn more about how your organization empowers students.” Practicing your intro ahead of time can help calm your nerves and make conversations flow more easily.
3. Ask, Listen, and Engage
Networking isn’t just about talking, it’s about listening. When chatting with e-board members, ask open-ended questions about their roles, challenges, and favorite experiences within the organization. Active listening shows maturity and interest, and it gives you insight into whether that group aligns with your own values and goals.
4. Bring Confidence, Not Perfection
You don’t have to have your entire life plan figured out to make an impression. Most student leaders remember what it felt like to be new. Approach conversations with confidence and curiosity rather than trying to sound overly rehearsed. Authenticity goes much further than perfection, it shows that you’re genuinely interested in growing and learning.
5. Follow Up After the Mixer
The key to turning a brief introduction into a meaningful connection is following up. Send a short message or email thanking the person for their time and mentioning something specific from your conversation. For example, “I really enjoyed hearing about your experience organizing campus events, I’d love to get involved next semester.” This small gesture can set you apart from the crowd and help you build lasting relationships.
6. Reflect on What You Learned
After the event, take a moment to reflect. Which organizations resonated with you the most? Who did you connect with? What skills or traits did you notice in the e-board members that you’d like to develop yourself? Every mixer is a chance to learn, not just about others, but about your own growth as a student and leader.
E-board mixers are more than networking events, they’re steppingstones to opportunity. The connections you make today can lead to mentorship, collaboration, and leadership roles tomorrow. So, take a deep breath, walk in with confidence, and remember: everyone in that room was once in your shoes.