Real-World Exposure – Creating and Managing Professional Contacts

We encourage students to brainstorm a list of adults in their lives—and in their parents’ lives—who may have connections to their fields of interest. For example, a student interested in architecture might list anyone connected to that field. This does not have to be an architect specifically; it could include a general contractor who works closely with architects or a landscape architect who collaborates with design teams. 

Potential sources for contacts include: 

• High school teachers 

• Coaches 

• Church members 

• Family friends 

• Extended family 

• Neighbors 

Once you have identified a potential professional connection, it is usually best to begin by requesting an informational interview. An interview requires a smaller time commitment on the part of the professional and allows you to make a positive impression while learning more about possible shadowing opportunities, internships, or special projects. 

How to Reach Out 

Below are email templates for requesting an informational interview with a professional contact. Be sure to customize the message to reflect your interests and circumstances.

If you have a connection to the individual: 

Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name], 

I hope you are doing well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a [grade level] at [High School Name]. [Mutual Contact’s Name] suggested that I reach out to you because of your experience in [field/industry]. 

I am very interested in learning more about careers in [area of interest] and would love the opportunity to hear about your educational and professional journey. If you are willing, I would greatly appreciate the chance to meet with you for a brief informational interview at a time that is convenient for you, either in person or virtually. 

I am eager to learn more about your work and any advice you may have for students who are considering this path. Thank you very much for considering my request. I truly appreciate your time. 

I look forward to hearing from you. 

Sincerely, 

[Your Full Name] 

[Your Phone Number (optional)] 

If you DO NOT have a connection to the individual:  

Hi [Name], 

My name is [Your Name], and I’m a high school student at [Your School]. I’m very interested in learning more about [their field or job title, e.g., marketing, engineering, healthcare administration, etc.], and I came across your work at [Company Name]. Your experience stood out to me, and I would love the opportunity to learn from you. 

If you’re available, I was hoping to set up a brief 15–20 minute informational interview to ask a few questions about your career path and the work you do. I’m trying to explore different career options, and your insights would be incredibly helpful as I consider my next steps. 

I’m happy to work around your schedule and can meet by phone, Zoom, or any format that’s easiest for you. 

Thank you, 

(Your Name) 

Important Reminders for Informational Interviews 

• Dress professionally 

• Smile and listen attentively 

• Make eye contact 

• Ask specific and thoughtful questions (for a list of suggested questions, see below) 

• Always send a thank-you note after the interview, either by email or mail, expressing appreciation for their time and guidance (for a sample thank-you email, see below)

Sample Questions to Use in an Informational Interview: 

1. How did you get into this field? 

2. Does your position require any extra schooling, training, or experience? 

3. What would you recommend majoring in or skills to develop to go into this field? 

4. Would you have done anything differently in your career or education to get where you are today?

5. How do you anticipate your industry or position changing in the next 5-10 years? 

6. What does a typical workday or week look like for you?  (What are expectations of time commitment? Do you work solo or in a team?)  

7. What are other fields I could go into with an ______ degree? Or adjacent to architecture? 

8. Do you offer any internships? 

9. Can you recommend any other people I could reach out to conduct informational interviews (either in the same/similar field or the___ field)? 

10. What resources, industry publications, books, or podcasts do you recommend reading or listening to be more informed in this field?

Thank You Note Template for After an Informational Interview 

Dear [Mr./Ms./Dr. Last Name], 

Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with me and speak about your career in [field/industry]. I truly appreciated the opportunity to learn more about your educational and professional journey. 

I especially enjoyed hearing about [specific detail, project, or advice they shared], and it helped me better understand what a career in this field looks like. Our conversation has encouraged me to continue exploring this path and preparing for my future. 

Thank you again for your generosity and willingness to share your experiences and advice. I am very grateful for your time and guidance. 

Sincerely, 

[Your Full Name]