Super Networker: Reach Your SXSW EDU 2025 Goals

Venturing to build your network at SXSWEDU? As daunting as it may seem, SXSW EDU offers many opportunities to make meaningful connections. More often than not, attendees leave SXSW EDU not only with knowledge and experiences, but friendships and an expanded network of teaching professionals who share the same passion. 

Having pre-conference jitters is completely normal – it is a week-long socializing marathon in an unfamiliar city. It is important to remember that everyone attending SXSW EDU shares the same commitment to improving the education space. Come to SXSW EDU with a willingness to learn and network, and it will go a long way.

Socialize With Attendees 

The early bird gets the worm! Start networking early by attending the Early Bird Social on Sunday, March 2nd before SXSW EDU officially kicks off the next morning.

Speaking of birds, try killing two birds with one stone by attending our various walking tours: Austin Music Walking Tour, Downtown Austin Walking Tour, & East Side Art Walking Tour. Socialize with other attendees while also learning more about what the 512 has to offer! 

Keep the good vibes going at the SXSW EDU Opening Party! Celebrate the beginning of an eventful and impactful week with your new connections!

After a long day of learning and invigorating experiences at SXSW EDU, it is important to fuel yourself with delicious local Austin cuisine. Connect with other attendees at various Pop-Up Dinners around downtown. SXSW EDU has already made the reservations, just pick a restaurant that fits within your budget! 

Mmm, what’s that smell? That must be the Beats & BBQ Social on the last day of SXSW EDU! Enjoy some music and good ol’ fashioned BBQ before heading home.

Find Your Community 

You come here often? No? Meet other First Timers at the First Timers Meet Up while getting the latest tips, tricks, and advice on how to get the most out of your SXSW EDU experience from one of our Advisory Board members. 

Meet other students attending SXSW EDU at the Student Meet Up, hosted by students! This session is also a part of the special 2025 Crossover Day, meaning attendance is open to both SXSW EDU badgeholders as well as all SXSW badgeholders.

Other Meet Ups

• Explore Brazilian Community Meet Up @ SXSW EDU 
• Environmental Education & Action Meet Up
• Creative Youth Development Funders Meet Up

Learn More About Networking 

Attend Catalyzing Connections in Career-Connected Learning to connect with peers working to advance their career-connected learning. Hear how other educators and organizations are creating opportunities for middle and high school students through career-connected learning. 

Learn how to form the foundation of your personal value proposition (PVP) and leverage it while networking at Building Authentic Relationships: Networking. By the end of this session, attendees will walk away with a PVP and concrete networking skills that can be implemented right away at SXSW EDU.

Join the Session Learning How to Work with Your Enemies to learn the importance of connecting with others despite differences in opinions and ideals. 

Gain Invaluable Insight 

The SXSW EDU Mentorship program is an opportunity for attendees to connect and learn from seasoned mentors and gain invaluable insight. Meet with mentors one-on-one at our Mentor Sessions for personalized advice, support, and insight. 

Roundtables are group discussions between mentors and a small group of attendees. These interactive sessions provide a unique platform to share perspectives, exchange ideas, and collaborate with a diverse community.

Remember to Recharge

Keep your social battery charged by attending our various Coffee Breaks and Snack Breaks throughout the event.

Networking Tips & Tricks 

• Bring business cards 
• Updated your social media accounts  
• Download the SXSW EDU mobile app 
• Set realistic goals for yourself
• Discover personal strengths to navigate your networking strategy
• Research and favorite sessions in the schedule
• Keep your connections warm after the conference

See You at SXSW EDU 2025

Registration is open for SXSW EDU 2025! Book your hotel early for the best rates and hotel options March 3-6, 2025 in downtown Austin.

Sign up for SXSW EDU email updates, check out the News feed, watch videos, and follow us on Bluesky, X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok to get the most up-to-date information.

Photo by Andy Wenstrand