One of the most unique assets of studying at Oxford, especially at Saïd Business School, is the people. While the program content is world-class and the academic rigor will stretch your thinking, it is the human connections you make here that often end up shaping your journey the most.
After twenty Oxford visits (including modules, graduation ceremonies, and extra trips to write assessments or attend events at Oxford Saïd, taking full advantage of its knowledge and networking agenda), I’ve met more than 130 peers from dozens of countries and industries. Some became collaborators, others became travel partners, and a few became lifelong friends. Networking at Oxford is not a side benefit. It’s the beating heart of the experience.
Here are ten practical tips to help you build meaningful connections during your time at Oxford:
Be curious first, strategic later
Don’t rush into networking with an agenda. Start by being genuinely curious about your classmates their paths, passions, and perspectives. Ask questions. Listen more than you speak. Oxford attracts brilliant, unconventional minds from every corner of the world. Treat every encounter as a window into a different way of thinking. That curiosity will open far more doors than strategy ever could.
Find the story behind the resume
Everyone comes with an impressive CV, but what truly builds connection are the life stories behind the credentials. Ask about pivotal moments, values, risks taken. Invite others to share what shaped them not just what they do. You’ll discover common ground in the most unexpected places. That’s where real bonds begin, long before any LinkedIn request or collaboration opportunity.
Join the WhatsApp group… but don’t live there
Every cohort form informal WhatsApp groups or Slack channels. Use them to coordinate, ask for help, and stay connected but don’t mistake online activity for real connection. A walk through the University Parks or a quiet coffee near Jericho offers richer moments of presence. Don’t let the noise of digital updates replace the magic of face-to-face connection in Oxford.
Collaborate beyond the classroom
The quickest way to build strong bonds is to work together. Organize a dinner, co-lead a presentation, or simply offer to review someone’s draft. Shared effort no matter how small builds trust. These collaborations often spark new ideas, or even long-term partnerships. Don’t wait for assignments; initiate opportunities to work and learn side-by-side with your peers.
Stay for the dinners (and after-dinners)
Black-tie dinners, evening drinks, or informal gatherings in someone’s hotel lobby often become the highlight of the Oxford experience. These are not just social events they’re spaces of deep reflection, laughter, and connection. Many of my most memorable conversations and professional collaborations began over a glass of wine after class. Don’t skip them. That’s where Oxford truly comes alive.
In the end, many people come to Oxford with clear goals in mind: to pivot careers, launch new ventures, or evolve professionally.
Don’t underestimate professors as connectors
Oxford professors aren’t just world-class academics they’re often deeply embedded in global business, policy, and innovation circles. A thoughtful question, a comment after class, or a well-written follow-up message can spark a deeper relationship. Many are generous with their time and connections. They might challenge you intellectually and also point you toward your next opportunity.
Deepen bonds within your industry
While Oxford is a great place to explore new fields, don’t overlook the power of connecting with peers from your own industry. These conversations can go deeper, faster grounded in shared context, challenges, and language. It’s a unique opportunity to reflect, reframe, and even reshape the future of your field together.
Give first, follow later
A great way to connect with Oxford alumni is not by asking for help but by offering something of value. Share a relevant article, extend an introduction, or invite them to an event. That gesture of goodwill builds trust and opens doors organically.
Make room for quiet connections
Not every connection has to be loud, immediate, or public. Some of the most meaningful relationships grow in quiet moments walking to class, sharing a coffee, or reflecting together after a lecture. Don’t feel pressured to 'network' all the time. Give space for deeper bonds to emerge naturally. Friendships.
Keep the global connection alive
At Oxford, a great part is a traveler. Your classmates will constantly be moving from Dubai to São Paulo, from Singapore to New York. That’s why it’s worth staying in touch even after the modules end. In my case, I’ve reconnected with peers in twelve different countries. Oxford doesn’t end in Oxford; it travels with you.
In the end, many people come to Oxford with clear goals in mind: to pivot careers, launch new ventures, or evolve professionally. That’s fair (and expected, actually). But if Oxford teaches anything about networking, it’s this: real opportunities emerge not from chasing titles or roles, but from genuine human connection. Saïd Business School reminds us that business isn’t conducted between institutions it’s built between people.
So instead of racing to network, take your time to meet the person behind the profile. Everything else will follow.
Find out more about the Oxford Executive Diploma in Artificial Intelligence for Business.
