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thestoryofOJ

not just half-ass email them when I'm a junior looking for important internships. 

Can I let you in on a little secret here..... they are totally expecting you to just "half-ass email them" when you want an internship or job! That is why they gave you their cards. It is perfectly fine, don't need to over complicate this. This is literally how the world works.

My advice, if you have genuine questions, need insights, need help, etc... reach out. But just looking for ways to stay in touch to build relationships for the sake of it is probably not that mutually beneficial. There is really no need to "hide" your intent about wanting a job.... they know you want a job.... you are in college, that is literally the whole point of it.... graduate and get hired! I mean, exactly what track do you think these people followed in their life?

Everyone who is "senior" was once "junior", and all those in the industry/field were once not. Most started in UG after high-school, and not all had parents with connections. Thus, when someone who is "senior" or even "junior" is offering to help a student it is really done out of pure "pay it forward" intent. Someone helped them, now they get to offer the help. If they want to advance your resume internally, just ask, they probably will if they like you and think you will fit into the firm. 

There is no magic here, just how the world works!