[jayhuang]

I'm about the same age (just turned 21), and I do get a lot of recruiter spam. I'd gladly trade to be in your shoes instead. The lack of effort many of these people put into their emails is appalling. I understand recruiters are frequently ignored so I do make an effort to respond in any way if they show some effort. "r u interested? call me" types just get deleted.

To answer your question, LinkedIn is a big part as many have mentioned, website, I also have an occasionally updated blog which has been on the top 3 of the front page on HN.

Most people to reach out to me through the blog have written the best emails and still maintain a good relationship with me after the fact. Emails from CEOs or CTOs also usually reach me there.

Other than that, my LinkedIn doesn't have too many connections (I only add people I've met or spoken with), but I do have a few good recommendations. I co-founded a business a couple years ago and I still get some contacts through people who know me from there.

For the most part, recruiter spam is not a problem you want to have. Be grateful （: