San Jacinto College students are being introduced to professional networking through Spill the Beans, a monthly event hosted by the Center for Entrepreneurship that focuses on building confidence, communication skills, and meaningful connections.

“Spill the Beans is a structured, welcoming networking experience designed to help San Jacinto College students build confidence, connections, and community,” says Patricia Wells, director of the Center for Entrepreneurship. “The event creates a low-pressure environment where students can practice professional conversations and connect with peers, faculty, and community partners.”

The event uses a guided speed-networking format that allows students to rotate through short conversations with different partners. Each round includes prompts that help students start conversations and keep discussions focused, giving participants multiple chances to practice speaking and listening skills. 

“The structure removes the awkwardness that often comes with networking and ensures every student has multiple opportunities to engage,” says Wells. 

Spill the Beans is open to all San Jacinto College students, regardless of major or career path. Organizers say the event is especially helpful for first-generation college students, and those who may feel unsure navigating professional environments.

“Networking is not about asking for a job,” says Wells, “it is about building relationships, learning from others, and expanding awareness of opportunities.”

The event is hosted in partnership with Nimble Workspaces, giving students the opportunity to network in a more professional setting that reflects modern work environments. Organizers say the partnership helps students experience how professional spaces operate while connecting classroom learning to real world settings. 

“Our partnership with Nimble Workspaces helps bridge the gap between college and the professional world,” says Wells. “It reinforces our mission to connect students with real-world ecosystems beyond the classroom.”

Spill the Beans meets every fourth Friday of the month from 9 a.m to 10 a.m, with light bites and open networking beginning at 8:30 a.m. An additional evening session was offered last fall, and organizers say future evening events may be added if student interest increases. 

For students attending their first networking event, organizers encourage a relaxed and open mindset. 

“Feeling nervous is completely normal,” says Wells. “Students do not need a polished pitch. They just need to be willing to introduce themselves and listen.”

Organizers say there are plans to expand Spill the Beans across all San Jacinto College campuses and continue developing it as a signature event. Future plans include themed sessions, industry specific networking opportunities, and increased involvement from community partners.

“The earlier students begin networking, the more opportunities they can access over time,” says Wells. “Spill the Beans provides a supportive first step that helps students build confidence and clarify their goals.”

For more information see the events calendar flyer.