Fast Five: Quick-fire insights from an introverted entrepreneur

For budding entrepreneur Zita Wong, the path to networking success seemed daunting.  As a new graduate venturing into the high-energy world of startups, large networking events felt overwhelming. Enter Ask Alumni, the University of Melbourne’s online mentoring platform that has become Zita's secret weapon in building meaningful professional connections.

Ask Alumni participant Zita Wong
Zita Wong, Bachelor of Commerce 2022

Zita's journey highlights a common challenge faced by young alumni: how to build a robust professional network while also managing the many demands of post-university life.

“This platform is really perfect for me, since I'm kind of an introverted person," Zita explains. "If I need to do networking in real life, I cannot handle too many people!"

Ask Alumni offers Zita a way to leverage the power of her university network while playing to her strengths. The platform's focus on one-on-one interactions aligns perfectly with her preferences and communication style.

“Since we are all alumni, we have a connection already between us,” says Zita. “So mentors are really willing to listen to me and give their feedback.”

Creating international connections

One of Zita's most memorable experiences with Ask Alumni highlights the platform's unique ability to forge unexpected connections across international boundaries. As a native of Macau, she was astounded to discover a mentor from her hometown on the platform - and not just any mentor, but a local celebrity she had admired since childhood.

"It's very surprising that I found a Macau mentor in the network, and he's also a singer, a star in Macau," Zita recounts with excitement. "I had one of his posters when I was in primary school!"

This serendipitous connection highlights Ask Alumni's power to bridge geographical gaps and create meaningful mentorship opportunities that might seem impossible otherwise. The platform's extensive network allowed Zita to connect with someone who not only shared her cultural background but also had relevant industry experience.

"He studied marketing and worked in one of the huge corporates in Macau so I had many questions to ask," she explains. “It was a really special experience.”

More than professional networking

For Zita, Ask Alumni has provided more than just professional networking—it's offered a sense of belonging. "I think it's not only about those few years when you're studying at uni,” she reflects. “It's also about the future when you become a part of the alumni community. It can last much longer.”

Since moving to Sydney, Zita has taken her networking from strength to strength, joining the local Alumni Association and attending events in person. “I know that for some shy people, it is very difficult to take the first step,” she says.  Her advice for fellow introverts? "I hope more people realise that there is such a powerful platform there, ready for them.”

Ready to connect with an inspiring mentor? Find out more about Ask Alumni here.

Zita’s fast five

    • Focused
    • Curious
    • Energized
    • Collaborative
    • Impactful

    • Candour (clear, honest feedback)
    • Operator experience (has built/scaled, not just advised)
    • Generosity (with time and networks)
    • Empathy (pushes me, but has my back)

    • Notion — planning, docs, brains of the operation
    • Google Meet — quick syncs, client calls, smooth collab
    • YouTube — learning sprints, tutorials, idea fuel

    • Stop 1 — friendly staff, quick fixes & comfy couches
    • Baillieu Library — heritage hush & deep-focus nooks

  • Start sooner. Stay connected. Ask for help. Protect your energy.

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