You’ve settled into a groove on campus—you’ve worked out all possible latte stops between classes, which rooms are too cold and require a hoodie and which nights are best for going out. But before you get too comfortable, take stock of your campus Rolodex—think you know who’s who? This year, don’t limit your networking to fellow dorm mates. Whether you’re a first-year or a senior, take time now to befriend the people on campus who can make life easier, guaranteed.

Registrar.
If the registrar makes a mistake with your schedule or billing—or you do—be nice when you ask for help. Long before any problems arise, stop and chat when you have five minutes. In the future when you ask them to pull strings to help you get into that seniors-only photography class, they’ll know you as that “nice girl.”

Cafeteria worker.
When you arrive late for Mexican night and the guacamole supply is gone, cafeteria workers may share the whereabouts of leftovers. They also know the week’s dining schedule and where to score treats left over from faculty meetings. “Plus,” says Jenna, a sophomore at Boston University, with a smile, “they’ll be more likely to bring up the new carton of chocolate chip when the gallon in the freezer has been tapped.” Everyone needs an ice cream hook-up.

Security guard.
Learn their names and always stop to chat for a minute. “If the guards get to know you and your friends,” says Lisa, a senior at Stamford University, “they’ll be more likely to just let your visitors through without having to go through the whole ‘sign-in with i.d.’ formality.”

Computer lab technician.
Okay, you know where the computer lab is, but do you know the hours? After you’ve noted lab locations tack a cheat sheet with lab hours and help-desk contact information to a bulletin board. “Get to know the people who work in the computer lab,” says Jenna. “Just saying hello or sharing a piece of gum could make the difference in whether or not you score that last computer the night before your term paper is due.”