For many, “career-building” is a phrase associated with stern salary workers in sleek skyscrapers with decades of experience on their polished résumés. That is why it is surprising to find high school students like Vedika Dangi and Austen Wu actively networking on LinkedIn — and just as surprising to see how differently they use it.
“It’s a good way of getting some practice on the platform itself,” Vedika, a senior, said, “and how to network and reach out to different individuals and professionals.”
While some users like Vedika use the app in a more professional manner, others like Austen see it as a social opportunity.
“I’m not doing it for the professional aspect,” Austen, a junior, said. “I’m just doing it for fun with my friends.”
As of February 2025 nearly 3 in 10 LinkedIn users — 28.7% — are under 24, including many U-High students. They use the platform in various ways, from a foundation in skills like professional networking and building a résumé to a grown-up form of social media.
Vedika sees several benefits from the platform, but her main intentions are to stay connected and informed within her fields of interest.
“My primary goal was to meet leaders and individuals in different industries,” she said. “It’s also a great way for me to stay updated on what’s going on in the global market.”
Vedika also uses LinkedIn as an opportunity to keep a record of her achievements and skills, such as past internships, awards and language proficiencies, which is especially handy for applications.
“Some résumés ask you for your LinkedIn account,” she said. “There are times where I’ve had to update my account to make sure that my applications for different programs are strengthened.”
Austen sees connecting with friends on LinkedIn, a platform with a more formal tone than most other social media, as practice leaning into the professional interactions necessary for future networking.
“We’re teenagers, but it’s just fun to be professional in a way,” Austen said. “I guess it’s a good professional outlook. If, like, Instagram was super informal, then LinkedIn is a more formal way.”
Even if the average high schooler might not have the experience or prestige of an older user, Vedika still believes that a LinkedIn account is a strong start in developing a professional identity.
“It’s a great way to practice and get it prepared, especially when there’s going to be a lot of new changes coming up in your life,” she said. “Having a solid LinkedIn account will always be helpful.”
