My First Blog: Why Women Need to Step Up and Take the Lead

 Dear Reader,

I hope you're in good spirits, or at the very least, holding yourself gently through life’s pace. Thank you for joining me again as we reflect on a topic close to my heart — social capital — and the undeniable impact it’s had on my university journey.

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Social Capital in University

If you had told me a few years ago that the relationships I built in university would open more doors than I could ever imagine, I probably would’ve blinked twice. Not because I didn’t believe in the power of people, but because, deep down, I’ve always carried a quiet sense of awkwardness around social settings.

There are moments when I find it hard to initiate conversations. I can be the person who overthinks greetings or who lingers on the edge of the room before joining in. And yet, despite all that, I’ve become a firm, vocal advocate for social capital—because I’ve witnessed firsthand what it can do.

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What is Social Capital, Really?

Social capital isn’t about popularity or being loud. It’s not about knowing everyone or attending every social event. It’s about building meaningful relationships that are rooted in trust, shared goals, support, and the exchange of knowledge.

In a university space, this can look like

• Collaborating with classmates who later become professional references.

• Building friendships with seniors who guide you through academic potholes.

• Staying in touch with lecturers and mentors who believe in your potential.

• Joining student organizations that introduces you to hidden opportunities.

• Being present enough that when your name comes up, it’s attached to value.

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How It Worked for Me

Despite the occasional awkwardness, I’ve always believed in showing up, authentically. I joined student structures, volunteered, asked questions after class, networked after meetings, and sent follow-up emails. These small, intentional acts have shaped how people see me, not just as a student, but as a leader, a collaborator, and someone worth remembering.

Because of social capital:

• I’ve been entrusted with leadership roles I didn’t always apply for.

• I’ve gained access to opportunities, from panel invitations to mentorship programs, simply because someone remembered my name and work ethic.

• I’ve found emotional support from peers and lecturers during hard seasons.

• I’ve built friendships that feed both my personal and professional growth.

These weren’t always polished, high-energy interactions. Sometimes, they began with awkward handshakes and nervous greetings. But I showed up anyway. And in doing so, I built a network that continues to pour into me.

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Why I Advocate for It?

Social capital is a currency no one teaches us about explicitly, but one we all spend and earn every day. In universities, especially where competition can sometimes outweigh collaboration, the ability to cultivate genuine connections can be your most powerful asset.

To my fellow introverts or socially anxious peers, you don’t have to fake extroversion to benefit from social capital. You just have to be intentional:

• Be consistent in your spaces.

• Add value where you can.

• Don’t underestimate small check-ins and thank-yous.

• Let people know what you’re passionate about, and someone will remember.

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Final Thoughts

University is not just about academics. It’s a community. And how you choose to engage with it can define more than your transcript ever will. If you're like me, someone who sometimes feels awkward or unsure, let this be your reminder: your presence has power, even when it feels quiet.

Invest in people. Cultivate those connections. You never know who’s holding the key to your next opportunity—or how you might be the key to theirs.

With belief in your journey,

Amantle