Although the idea of spending your summer sitting in the sun, reading anything that isn’t a textbook and just relaxing sounds good…consider fitting in a little career development during the break too.
Think outside the box about the value in a summer internship or job. Make the experience more than just money in the pocket for fast food and next fall’s tuition.
• Learn more about yourself – what do you like and what do you dislike – what are your strengths and what do you need to improve upon?
• Take in each new work environment and how it does or doesn’t fit your
personality and preferences.
• Reflect on the various roles you have in your job and what roles you
most enjoy.
• Network, network, network!
• Remember you have the choice to leave a good impression or a bad impression by every action and inaction you make.
• Ask for feedback. Many of those you are working with have been professionals for years. They can tell you what is valuable in today’s market place.
• Watch others at work. What do you think makes them successful or inefficient?
• Make note of all the skills you gain in your summer job experience. Be
sure to communicate them as transferrable skills on your resume.
