Student-founded alumni groups play a very important role in recruiting students to attend their alma maters.

FORBES: Creative Koreans

You also can join alumni groups on LinkedIn or Facebook and connect with fellow alumni, even if you don't know them personally.

WSJ: Job Hunting in the Off Season

Mr. Graber says job-seekers should do as much networking as possible, through talking with friends and associates, attending events, and participating in alumni clubs and nonprofit groups.

WSJ: Turning That Layoff Into Career Catalyst

After thoroughly researching the foster care system, conducting focus groups with successful foster care alumni, and independently mentoring foster children, I decided that I would be a champion to improve the odds for foster youth.

WHITEHOUSE: Fostering Change

Delaying the vote, the board member said, would allow time for talks with religious groups, corporate sponsors, scouting alumni and parents.

WSJ: Boy Scouts Postpone Decision on Gay Members