The “Happy Hour” Hustle of Graduate School

By Priyasha Chakravarti

Georgetown graduate students, especially in the McCourt school, SFS, and other professional / policy-related programs, live at the intersection of academia and D.C.’s hyper-networked culture. 

Networking can occur in many ways – cold emails, linkedin connections, coffee chats, or interestingly, happy hours. Networking and happy hours have become nearly synonymous, whether they are hosted by universities, organizations, or young professional forums. Here, students have to balance between professional and personal connections, juggling conversations, business cards, and cocktails.

“The way that this city works is often through networking. It might be different in other cities but here it opens a lot of doors. So there is a bit of pressure to make sure you are constantly keeping up with your networking and growing it. But I enjoy networking events that are by subject area and bring in alumni,” Isabel Chiriboga (MPP’27) said. 

The importance of networking is often emphasized by professors, career center coaches, internship supervisors, and bosses. There is real value in such gatherings as these connections can lead to new friendships, internships, mentorships, or even jobs. But the pressure to constantly “be on” can be exhausting and lead to burnout. 

“First I felt I was lost in the event venue, but now I understand what I could gain during the event and sometimes even enjoy it! Rather than trying to talk to as many people as possible, I try to find one or two people who I can keep contact with even after the session,” Sangeun Lee (MPP’27) said.

So how can Georgetown graduate students navigate networking, socializing, and self-care in D.C.’s hyper-connected professional environment? 

Ultimately, the solution is about balance. Students should not have to choose between socialising, self care, and career-building. There should be distinct spaces and opportunities for all of these aspects.

For example, the McCourt School hosted a Master of Public Policy Happy Hour on October 21, 2025 and a Networking Night on October 23, 2025. The former offered a casual and light atmosphere, where peers and friends mingled over drinks and pizza, while the latter was a formal networking session between students, faculty and alumni.

It is possible to see spaces like these coexist—one built for community and relaxation, the other for professional growth and connection. 

“It is a balancing act so time management is crucial. You get pulled in all different directions as a graduate student. Georgetown can play more of a role in helping students understand and navigate priorities – jobs, financial security, professional life, social life,” Chiriboga said.

But when professional and personal spaces do overlap, it is up to both the university and students to rethink how they can balance connection, wellbeing, and professional growth. 

Some quick tips on navigating happy hours and networking sessions:

• Be open-minded, join new conversations, and meet new people!
• Pay attention and make eye contact when talking to people.
• Exchange contact information.
• Include others who may be on their own.
• Position and present yourself authentically. Tell stories!

Graduate students can speak to their respective career coaches, deans, and trusted friends and professors for advice on how to navigate the post-graduate networking scene.