Is this a good follow up letter after networking event?

Career Opportunities & Internships
1

So I wanted to remind him that he gave me his card after I said I wasn’t able to talk to anyone who worked at a Big 4 accounting firm and the event was almost over and he was like “Oh well let me give you my card and I can get you in contact with them”. How do I remind him of that but also not make it seem like I’m totally ignoring him and using him to get to them? I tried—is this good? How should I phrase it? Because I really am not intending to act that way.

Dear __________,

It’s been a pleasure speaking with you at the Alumni Networking Event at _________. I was the freshman who you gave your business card after I had mentioned I was interested in working at a big 4 firm but hadn’t had the chance to meet anyone there who worked at one at the event. In particular, it was interesting to hear about your work in insurance industry accounting. I was so focused on getting a career at a Big 4 firm that I hadn’t given much thought to the idea of working within the accounting department of a private company. Now I have another field to consider.

Thanks so much,

2

I would generally try to engage the person in a conversation. Your note is a thank you and seems reasonable, but there is no call to action. There are plenty of things you can do in this note. For example, you can say all that you did, and then you could ask for advice about how to navigate the application process, including whether the company hires freshmen. You could also ask for advice on how to break into the industry - what do you do at each stage of undergrad? Most people will be happy to talk about their own experiences, and you might even be able to get some help getting through the door if you are applying to a position.

3

i asked her for some advice about getting internships but, well, i guess it wasn’t very good because she didn’t respond.