How to Make Your Summer Work for You

by Nola Green on June 8, 2011

Well, it’s almost here. That magical time of year when we slip on the sandals, take off the cover-ups, and lounge in the sun. And I couldn’t be happier. This is my season, not just because school is out and there is time to go to the beach, but because summer has always been the time of year when I feel like I have time to do things for me.

This summer, my “me time” is focused on finding a full-time job post graduation. But I refuse to spend the entire time solely applying for jobs. I plan to use my time more productively than that.

I am going to research some of the careers I am interested in. There is more than meets the eye in most professions, and before I apply, I want to know everything I can. This will also allow me to put together a list of questions I might have about a company or position. So if I do end up getting an interview there, I will already be prepared with questions I want to ask.

I will do an internship. Well, I already have this internship, which I love, but it does leave time for me to hold another internship if I want to. Summer is a great time to intern with a company, because school won’t get in the way. Not only that, but most companies have paid internships over the summer, which could take the place of a job if need be.

I will take a class. I am currently searching the Internet for professional development classes in my area, to see what I can enroll in — resume building courses, or maybe just a cake decorating class to release some pent-up creativity.

I will volunteer. I have applied to volunteer with the county animal shelters, not just because of my love of animals, but also because they are also always looking for public relations/community relations practitioners. If I am a volunteer there, I might be chosen over others for an open position.

Alison Doyle gives you a few more suggestions of how to spend your summer productively on her blog.

How are you going to spend your summer? Anything in mind that would help fellow job hunters?

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  • http://twitter.com/chattyprof Ellen Bremen

    I love these tips and am going to share with my students! One other idea:  Practice some communication building and public speaking in Toastmasters… helpful for college; marketable for work.  Ellen Bremen, M.A. @chattyprof

  • Nola Green

    Thanks, Ellen! I will definitely give that a try as well.

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