As I mature, I become aware of the importance of networking and how it is and has been a part of my day to day life for a long time. These networks build social awareness of ones surroundings and tends to be with people who play different roles in my professional and personal life. Networking tends to be something I do without even noticing, it is something one does on a daily basis with fellow students, lecturers at school and outside of school, with family members and friends. When I interact with family members and friends who have been in my life through the good and the bad, we share the network of guidance, love, encouragement and the molding of my beliefs and values. These specific interactions are more personal as they are rooted by emotional bonds, promoting belonging and a sense of security that sets the foundation of my identity. 

Besides my family my network also includes my friends who add joy into my life. These networks are grounded by similar interest, same age group and experiences. No matter what the conversation may be, the activity we might be engaging in at that moment or just sitting in each others company, it is always lively, filled with laughter, joy and understanding one another. Through these interactions and networking I find a peace of mind in times of distress and I feel a sense of belonging knowing that I am surrounded by people that get me and are always there for me.

In terms of my networking in a more professional setting such as on campus, where I interact with my lecturers and fellow students, I view them as a circle that is instilled to boost my growth and shape me into the person I will be after graduating, a helping hand. Exchanging information with my lecturers during classes while they also share their knowledge, doing group work with my fellow classmates, learning from every individual in one classroom, stimulating growth and development. Within these networks I gain expertise and experiences and learn how different individuals have different perspectives on what we might be discussing or on life in general and that shapes my mindset to also broaden my perspective.

In conclusion, I have to come to realise the importance of these networks in my growth in a professional setting but also in the outside world therefore I am grateful for the daily experiences and lessons that will continue shaping and enhancing my growth as an individual.