Ann Pankow, 34

Ann Pankow has a knack for being the first person people in her network think of when they need someone talented.

Two weeks after graduating from Florida Gulf Coast University, Pankow received a call from her finance professor — in 2011 amid the recession, no less — saying: I just gave your name to a bank, they need someone to fill a role, and you’re perfect for it.

Years later, a friend in financial consulting would call: I’m working on a development project in West Africa for the World Bank, and we’re looking for a financial analyst. Interested?