Over the past two decades, as clubs opened doors to non-members for the first time and created a more outwardly social atmosphere, they became predominantly undergraduate-oriented.

When student members began to view the clubs as party spots, they lost interest in the bonds older and younger club members once had, Sears says.

One current final club member similarly says he does not know anyone who has either attempted or managed to get a job through club connections.

But last semester, in an attempt to return the clubs to their roots, graduates clamped down on loose guest policies, effectively banning non-members from clubs.

The future of club networking holds promise for a reversal, according to Sears.

With clubs focusing more attention on intra-club activity, Sears predicts networking may resume, and already some clubs are planning events to reconnect the generations.

This year, Fly club members can attend a series of fireside chats in which successful graduate members return to meet with the undergraduates and give them advice.

And according to sources, the electronic bulletin board on the Fox Web site is filled with job offers for club members.