How to network proactively?

If you work at a YC-backed company, you already have a huge head start! Ask the founders if you can tag along whenever they go to a YC networking event. If you're in a major tech hub, that's a great way to meet lots of talented engineers. Once you go to these events, your goal is to find people you resonate with and try to connect with them later on in a 1 on 1 setting. More tips here: "How to Approach Taro Networking Event"

On top of that, I recommend signing up for Taro Networking and reaching out to people: https://www.jointaro.com/networking/

Communal Taro events like Book Club is another great place to meet talented engineers. I remember there was a Taro event a while back where 2 of the engineers were having a great chat in Zoom, and they decided to continue the conversation offline after the call to dig deeper. Lots of cool stuff can happen when you just show up and participate!

I understand networking is a long term game, but I feel stuck trying to build deeper relationships and especially trying to level up

I'd love something actionable on how I can add value to people and network that doesn't rely on my job/college

You are right that networking is a long term game. It can be harder to build connections with people when you only have one-off interactions with them. Having repeated interactions with other people is the best way to build trust with other people, especially when you are able to break down the professional shield you have when meeting people for the first time.

I'm not sure where you live, but if you live in a city with a large population of tech workers (SF, Seattle, NYC), find an activity or club that you are interested in, and you are sure to find other people working at different tech companies there.

I would also recommend Taro Networking to introduce yourself to people in the community. Your first interaction with someone might not lead to a significant relationship, but you might meet up with them again at a local Taro meetup or you might grab coffee or lunch with them. If you can stack multiple interactions with people, you'll really be able to build that trust with them and reach out to them in the future.