Build Your LinkedIn Profile

When it comes to creating a LinkedIn profile specifically tailored for college students, the focus should be on making a profile that is professional yet approachable. Here’s a streamlined list of the top steps students should follow:

Choose a Professional Photo

Profiles with a photo get viewed more often. Use a clear, professional headshot in appropriate attire. LinkedIn Photos can be taken in the CORE Commons: Weekdays 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Learn more about our LinkedIn Photo Booth in CORE

2. Create a Standout Headline

Instead of just your job title, craft a headline that highlights your skills, interests, or what you’re currently seeking. Example: “Marketing Major | Passionate About Social Media Strategy and Data Analytics”.

Learn more about how to write a strong LinkedIn Headline

3. Write a Strong Summary

Summarize who you are, what you’ve achieved, and what you’re seeking. This should reflect your career goals and values while showcasing your personality.

Learn more about how to write a strong LinkedIn Summary

4. Highlight Your Experience

Even if you don’t have a lot of work experience, list internships, volunteer work, projects, and extracurricular activities. Focus on skills you’ve developed in each role.

5. Add Your Skills and Endorsements

List relevant skills like communication, teamwork, or technical skills, and ask colleagues or classmates for endorsements.

6. Customize Your LinkedIn URL

Personalize the URL to something simple like linkedin.com/in/yourname. It looks professional and is easier to share.

Customizing your LinkedIn URL is a great way to make your profile more professional, memorable, and easier to share. Here’s how you can do it:

Steps to Customize Your LinkedIn URL:

  1. Go to Your LinkedIn Profile: Log in to your LinkedIn account and navigate to your profile by clicking on your profile picture or name.
  2. Click on ‘Edit public profile & URL’: In the upper-right corner of your profile page, you’ll see an option that says ‘Edit public profile & URL’. Click on it.
  3. Edit Your URL: On the right side of the screen, you’ll see ‘Edit your custom URL’. There will be a pencil icon next to your current LinkedIn URL. Click the pencil icon to edit.
  4. Choose Your New URL: Enter a URL that is simple and professional, such as your first and last name (e.g., linkedin.com/in/johndoe). If your name is common and already taken, consider adding a middle initial, or profession (e.g., linkedin.com/in/johndoe-marketing).
  5. Save Changes: Once you’ve entered your preferred URL, save your changes.

7. Include Education & Certifications

Include your school, major, and relevant coursework or certifications, such as LinkedIn Learning courses.

8. Add Visuals or Media

Showcase your work with portfolios, presentations, or projects you’ve worked on. This makes your profile dynamic.

9. Get Recommendations

Ask professors, internship supervisors, or classmates to write recommendations. They boost credibility.

10. Be Active

Join groups related to your career interests, and post or comment on relevant topics. Staying active will help you network and grow visibility.

For more student-focused articles, check out LinkedIn for Students

Complete LinkedIn Resource