Peer and social networks in job search

We examine how Dartmouth College seniors use social networks to obtain their first jobs. We do this by analyzing self reports of networking and by examining the correlation in employment outcomes among randomly assigned freshman roommates and hallmates. We find that the use of social networks differs for men and women and for white and nonwhite students. Networking also differs greatly across career types. Students networking with fraternity and sorority members and alumni are the most likely to obtain high paying jobs. There is a strong connection between own employment outcomes and outcomes for randomly assigned freshmen hallmates. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.