Better coffee chats start with better research.

A practical, student-first playbook for finding relevant professionals, preparing thoughtful cold emails, and turning networking into conversations. Orbit can help with the research and drafts; you remain in control of sending.

1. Start with a specific recruiting goal

Instead of searching for “bankers,” narrow by function, location, seniority and relevant connections. For example, students exploring investment banking in New York might prioritize alumni with recent analyst or associate experience.

2. Find people worth learning from

Start with public professional profiles and official employer pages. Check each person's actual role, company and relevant background before adding them to a networking list. University affiliation is useful context, not proof that someone will respond.

3. Write a cold email that earns a reply

Introduce yourself briefly, mention a specific reason for contacting the person, and ask a modest question. A coffee chat request should sound human and give the recipient room to decline.

Subject: NYU student interested in your banking experience
Hi [First name],
I'm a student at NYU exploring investment banking. I came across your work at [Firm] and was interested in [specific relevant detail].
If you have 15 minutes in the next few weeks, I'd appreciate hearing how you approached the transition into your team.
Thanks for considering it,
[Your name]

4. Use AI for preparation, not impersonation

An AI recruiting agent can shortlist professionals, attempt work-email discovery and prepare drafts. Check the facts, edit the wording, avoid contacting people you already reached, and approve each message before sending. AI-drafted does not mean delivered, and no system can guarantee interviews or replies.

5. Treat follow-up as a relationship, not a campaign blast

One considerate follow-up after a reasonable interval can be useful when you have not heard back. Stop if a recipient replies, declines or asks not to be contacted. Avoid duplicate messages and excessive automation.

6. Make the next step concrete

Pick one recruiting event or company today. Research two people whose experience you genuinely want to understand, prepare a tailored introduction, and review the draft. That is a useful first outcome even if you do not send it immediately.

Orbit is an independent recruiting tool, not affiliated with the firms or schools mentioned here. Check employer requirements, event eligibility and work authorization before applying.