On the importance of social networks in finding opportunities
These residencies reflect our deep commitment to providing a world-class education, one that fosters intellectual growth while preparing students to apply their learning meaningfully in the world. They offer students a unique opportunity to connect with leading voices in their fields, enriching their academic journey, expanding their professional networks, and giving them a distinct edge as they prepare for life beyond Beloit.
This fall, we welcome our 2025 Upton Scholar Mark Granovetter, the renowned sociologist and Stanford University professor whose groundbreaking research on “the strength of weak ties” has changed our understanding of social networks and their impact on personal and professional growth. His seminal paper, published in 1973, has been cited over 70,000 times and his work has become a foundational concept in sociology. Granovetter’s work highlights the importance of casual acquaintances, or “weak ties,” in providing access to new information and opportunities, especially in job searches.
At Beloit College, we recognize the value of building strong relationships between our students, faculty, and alumni. I have seen firsthand the power of weak ties among our students and alumni.
Antariksh Sharma ’23 landed a job as a systems analyst at the Wisconsin Economic Development Board shortly after graduating. He learned about jobs around state government while attending a Career Trek trip to Madison specifically designed to help students build “weak ties” with employers, alumni, and friends of the college. It was during this trip that he met people working in government, who introduced him to opportunities he had never considered before.
Jalen Ponder ’24 secured a job in San Francisco through a ”weak tie” connection spurred by alumna Karin Molander ’90. Karin’s introductions and encouragement expanded his professional circle beyond what he imagined possible. Through our Beloit2Bay program, Jalen and three other students visited the Bay Area last fall to explore career opportunities in the tech industry. This experience not only broadened their perspectives but also helped them build valuable connections that will serve them well in their future careers. Jalen’s story is a testament to the power of networking and the impact that our alumni can have on the lives of our current students.
Recently, in my role as president, I have experienced the power of the strength of weak ties. Growing up in the Seattle area, I’m familiar with many of the region’s sites and stories. That shared context sparked an unexpected but deeply meaningful connection during a two-hour dinner north of Seattle with Bill Pike ’75. What began as a conversation rooted in regional familiarity quickly revealed something deeper — our common bond through Beloit College.
That evening reminded me that our ties to Beloit run far deeper than any short dinner conversation can show. Bill’s initial curiosity about my background has since blossomed into a renewed and heartfelt connection to the college. His generous support of the Class of 1975 Fund and plans to create student internship opportunities in Anacortes, Washington (a place familiar to both of us, though few others) are a testament to the enduring power of Beloit’s influence and community.
At Beloit College, we are committed to expanding the traditional liberal arts college model by integrating experiential learning and career readiness into every aspect of our students’ experience. We believe that by leveraging our investment in student and faculty/staff relationships, we can provide our students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this rapidly changing world.
Our efforts to forge partnerships with organizations, industry, and other institutions are already yielding impressive results. Our students are gaining valuable experience through internships, fellowships, and community engagement projects, which are helping them develop the critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and effective communication skills that employers need. As we continue to innovate and build on our traditional strengths, I am excited to see the impact that our residency program will have on our students and alumni.
I am confident that this year’s Upton Scholar will inspire our students to think creatively about their career paths and to leverage their social networks to achieve their goals. I invite you to learn more about all of the Beloit College Residencies, and to continue to look for ways to make connections, those weak ties that make up the strong social network of our community.
From the president’s nook,
Eric Boynton
