Details
Westminster Seniors Learn How to Build a Professional Future with LinkedIn
Preparing for life after Westminster, Sixth Form students recently participated in a timely and practical workshop focused on one of the most powerful career tools available today: LinkedIn. The session offered insights from professionals, alumni, and a parent in the creative industry, all emphasizing the importance of a strong digital presence. Students also received hands-on guidance as they built (real-time) or refined their LinkedIn profiles in preparation for the next step in their journey.
The session began by highlighting the significance of developing a professional online presence before entering college or the workforce. Far more than just another social media site, LinkedIn was framed as a vital tool for securing internships, cultivating mentorships, and building a network that grows with each stage of life. Students learned that potential employers often Google candidates—where LinkedIn is one of the first results. A polished, up-to-date profile can make a powerful first impression.
Three speakers helped bring these lessons to life with a blend of personal experience and practical guidance:
- Chris Greco P’28, a partner at a major international law firm and Wake Forest Law graduate, shared how LinkedIn plays a central role in his firm’s hiring process and business development. He emphasized the power of second- and third-degree connections, encouraging students to begin networking early and to keep their profiles current and strategic.
- Justin Schuster '19, now an associate producer at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) in New York City, reflected on how he used Westminster’s LinkedIn alumni page to connect with mentors and discover career opportunities. His message from a position of being an alum not that far from where those sitting in the room were, relayed the value of being proactive and genuine in professional outreach—and how small conversations can shape big decisions.
- Kirsten Sala P'26, a local business professional turned photographer, brought a creative lens to the session. Known for her stunning sports photography on the boys soccer and lacrosse sidelines, Sala shared how she discovered her passion and built a professional brand around it. She generously offered her time and talent during the session, providing students with updated, high-quality headshots to use on their new LinkedIn profiles.
Students were guided through the essential elements of building a strong standout profile and LinkedIn presence, including:
- Highlighting education, awards, and achievements
- Including a current and professional profile photo
- Writing a clear, engaging summary
- Leveraging the Westminster alumni network to build connections
Even students with limited professional experience were encouraged to showcase their interests and involvement in school life, things like clubs, activities, awards and accolades—things that could spark a conversation with a potential employer.
One major theme throughout the workshop was the importance of mentorship. Students were urged to maintain relationships with trusted Westminster faculty and seek out mentors in college and beyond. Greco and Schuster both emphasized that mentorship is a two-way street—be the kind of person others want to invest in.
The session also served as a reminder that LinkedIn is just one piece of a student’s broader online presence. Greco urged students to be mindful of their online social media presence. He shared that employers routinely review applicants’ social media accounts, and even passive engagement (likes, shares) on inappropriate content can raise red flags. Students were advised to be thoughtful about how they present themselves across all platforms.
Students then created or revised their LinkedIn profiles realtime, complete with with new professional photos, courtesy of Kirsten Sala. Before leaving, each senior was encouraged to join the Westminster Alumni Network on LinkedIn.
Seniors have updated their profiles, found some great mentors, and built strong networks—now they’re heading into the future with confidence and a lot of exciting possibilities.
Contact Us
995 Hopmeadow Street
Simsbury, Connecticut 06070
P. (860) 408-3000
F. (860) 408 3001
Simsbury, Connecticut 06070
P. (860) 408-3000
F. (860) 408 3001
Explore Our Website
Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy as to Students
In keeping with our support for a diverse community, Westminster abides by all applicable federal and state laws and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic, including race, color, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national and ethnic origin, ancestry and/or disability in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. Westminster admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School.
In keeping with our support for a diverse community, Westminster abides by all applicable federal and state laws and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic, including race, color, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national and ethnic origin, ancestry and/or disability in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. Westminster admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School.
© Copyright 2025 Westminster School | Privacy Policy
AP® and Advanced Placement® are registered trademarks of the College Board. Used with permission.
AP® and Advanced Placement® are registered trademarks of the College Board. Used with permission.