How to Build a Professional LinkedIn Profile as a Student

Using LinkedIn during and after your studies

LinkedIn is a social media platform where users can connect with professionals, find jobs and acquire new skills. As a student, LinkedIn was the platform which I could not live without! Don’t get me wrong, at first it did seem like the ‘boring social media platform’ however after optimising my profile and building up my network, it changed my perspective completely.

I always wished that someone had helped me set up my profile and given me some advice on how to use the platform, so I have created a short breakdown on how you can build a professional LinkedIn profile as a student.

Profile Photo and Background Photo

LinkedIn is not the place for your favourite selfie, instead you should use a professional headshot. You can easily prop your phone up and stand against a plain coloured background to take your own photos. In your photo you should something professional, you could wear a plain black or white t-shirt if you prefer.

Your background photo is essentially a cover photo, think about what you would like people to know about you from your profile – this could be your name and the subject you’re studying, a photo you have taken, etc. I suggest looking at profiles from professionals in your desired industry for inspiration.

Your Headline

Your headline is an important part of your profile, as once again, employers and professionals will see this immediately on your page. Instead of saying “Student at UON”, you can get creative with how you present yourself, you could mention your career aspirations, key skills, or areas of interest.

The ‘About’ Section

This is where you can really sell yourself, your skills and experience – just don’t overdo it! Keep it concise and straight to the point. Once again, here you can mention what you are studying, career goals, key skills, and any standout or relevant achievements. Personally, I would suggest keeping it under 200 words but no less than 100.

Education and Experience

In these areas, you should highlight any educational achievements you have earned whether this be A-Levels, diplomas or your degree!

The experience section can be daunting, especially if you haven’t had a job before. However, this section can include any internships, university roles or class projects or research. For example, in my third year, I completed a live client project for Channel 4, I wanted to highlight this on my profile so I included it in my experience section. If you have any voluntary experience, you can add this to the ‘volunteering’ experience section.

Skills, Licenses and Certifications

You can add a list of skills which you have on your profile, this can help you find experience and also help develop skills you might not have. For example, if you are proficient in Microsoft Office – include it as a skill, it’s as easy as that! You can even highlight your top five skills underneath the about section.

If you have obtained any licenses or certifications during your studies or career, you can include these in the ‘Licenses and Certifications’ section. These can be from online courses such as LinkedIn Learning or even the Employability awards from UON.

Build your network

Connect with your lecturers and classmates to start building up your network, you can also connect with alumni, and relevant industry professionals – when you request to connect you can personalise a short message to send to the individual.

Customise your URL

Make it easier for people to find you by customising your URL, you can do this by opening LinkedIn on your computer, simply click ‘public profile and URL’ and follow the instructions on the screen. An example URL might look like this – linkedin.com/in/yourname.

Share content and engage!

Finally, it is a great habit to consistently engage with your connections and to post about any insights, projects, or milestones you have during your studies (and after!).

To Conclude . . .

LinkedIn is extremely beneficial during and after your studies, it has helped me to form connections with industry professionals, find jobs and to learn about relevant industry insights. If you haven’t made an account yet . . . make one!

Find out more about LinkedIn Learning at UON

Alicia Gonzalez

Alicia is a Multimedia & Digital Content Marketing Officer and works within the Marketing & Student Recruitment team. She loves cats and has a passion for travelling and going to concerts. Alicia is a 2024 graduate of Advertising and Digital Marketing BA (Hons).