How to Build a Professional Online Presence While in College

In a world where first impressions are often made online, your digital presence can be just as important as your resume. For college learners—especially those studying in virtual environments like Ascension Online College—building a strong, professional online identity is a smart move that opens doors to internships, job offers, collaborations, and thought leadership.

Whether you're just starting your academic journey or planning your next career move, developing a thoughtful and strategic online presence sets you apart from the crowd. Here’s how to do it the right way—while still in college.

🧭 Why Your Online Presence Matters

Think of your online presence as your digital reputation. It's how potential employers, peers, and professors perceive you based on what they find about you online. A professional online presence:

• Shows you're serious about your future

• Highlights your skills and accomplishments

• Builds credibility in your industry

• Expands your networking opportunities

• Makes you discoverable to recruiters and collaborators

At Ascension Online College, we teach you how to harness the power of the digital world to elevate your personal brand—because we believe your education should extend beyond the classroom.

💼 Step-by-Step: How to Build a Strong Online Presence

1. Google Yourself

Start with a simple search of your name. What comes up? Are your social media profiles public? Is there content you'd rather not be associated with? Doing this gives you a clear idea of what others see—and where you may need to clean up or build out.

2. Polish Your LinkedIn Profile

LinkedIn is the go-to platform for professional networking. Make sure you:

• Upload a professional photo (clear, friendly, and approachable)

• Write a strong headline that reflects your career goals or current role

• Fill in your education, experience, and skills

• Ask for recommendations from instructors or colleagues

• Engage with posts related to your field to show interest and thought leadership

Pro tip: Use your bio to talk about your journey at Ascension Online College and the skills you’re gaining.

3. Create a Personal Website or Portfolio

This is your own space to showcase:

• A bio and professional summary

• Resume or CV

• Work samples, projects, or creative work

• Testimonials or references

• Contact information and social media links

Platforms like Wix, WordPress, and Squarespace make it easy—even if you’re not a tech expert.

4. Clean Up Social Media

Make sure your public profiles on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or X (formerly Twitter) represent the best version of you. You don’t need to erase your personality, but avoid inappropriate language, controversial content, or anything that contradicts your professional goals.

Consider creating separate accounts if you want to keep personal and professional lives distinct.

5. Showcase Your Skills and Passions

Don’t wait until you graduate to demonstrate your expertise. Start sharing:

• Blog posts or articles you’ve written

• Class projects or presentations

• Certifications or courses you've completed

• Volunteer work or internships

• Your thoughts on trends or news in your field

Use platforms like Medium, Substack, or even LinkedIn articles to get your voice out there.

6. Join and Participate in Online Communities

Find professional groups on LinkedIn, Reddit, Discord, or Facebook where people in your field gather. Join discussions, ask questions, and offer insight. Not only will you learn from others, but you’ll also become more visible in your industry.

🌐 How Ascension Online College Helps You Build Your Brand

At Ascension Online College, we’re committed to supporting your academic success and career readiness. Here’s how we help you elevate your online presence:

✅ Career Services and Coaching

Our advisors offer personalized coaching on resume building, LinkedIn optimization, and digital branding strategies.

✅ Digital Skills Integration

Many of our courses include assignments that translate directly into online portfolio pieces—so you’re building your brand as you earn your credentials.

✅ Virtual Networking Opportunities

We host online events, guest speaker series, and discussion forums to help you connect with other students, alumni, and industry professionals.

✅ Encouraging a Growth Mindset

Our flexible, learner-first environment helps you embrace continuous development. Building a professional presence online isn’t a one-time task—it’s a journey we’ll support every step of the way.

📣 Final Thoughts

Your online presence is your digital handshake—often the first thing employers and collaborators notice. Don’t wait until graduation to start crafting it. By being intentional now, you’ll have a professional brand that opens doors to exciting opportunities in school and beyond.

At Ascension Online College, we believe in empowering our students with both the knowledge and the tools to succeed in the real world—and that includes the digital one. So log in, level up, and let the world see the brilliant learner and leader you’re becoming.

Ready to build your future, online and off?

📚 Explore Our Programs

🚀 Start Your Journey Today