LinkedIn has helped many workers expand their professional relationships with its vast offerings. From the recommendations feature to the algorithm-generated “Groups You May Like†suggestions, the professional networking site is not an option for any professional looking to build efficient relationships. LinkedIn announced on Monday it is working to give that same connectivity to students and universities.
Starting September 13, LinkedIn will let college administrators set up profiles, which will allow students ages 14 and up to network around schools. The University Pages will help students explore the network at a school they’re considering, explore the career trajectory of graduates from a specific university, giving them a closer look at life after college, and ask current students, faculty, staff and alumni their questions. There’s even a Notable Alumni tab where these tech-savvy teens can peruse through a listing of well-known grads at the selected university.
“We believe University Pages will be especially valuable for students making their first, big decision about where to attend college,†said Christina Allen, director of product management at LinkedIn.
LinkedIn’s latest move may draw a younger demographic, especially as more and more teens and young adults are fleeing Facebook. Not to mention, the increase in competition across the educational landscape may turn the 10-year-old site into a popular destination. The social network has over 225 million users worldwide.
LinkedIn currently has University Pages for 200 universities, including New York University, University of Michigan, Rochester Institute of Technology and Villanova, among others. Many more institutions of higher education will have access to their pages in the next several weeks.
Parents and young adults, we want to hear from you! How will LinkedIn’s University Pages help you find the perfect university? Â Let us know what you think in the comments section.