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Your college career offers a unique time for new opportunities to boost your resume and gain first-hand job experience. You may be overwhelmed with coursework, club meetings and a social life during the school year, but holiday breaks and the summer months are a perfect time to switch up your regular routine. Here are some things you could do to make the most of your break from campus life.
Research
Breaks from school are the best time to prepare for the upcoming semester and the following school year. Go online and research local companies you are interested in. Check out their mission statement and take note of any job or internship opportunities you come across. Access your college career center website. See what resources are available for you online or on campus. This is also a good time for you to update your resume. You never know when a job may open up, and you don’t want to haphazardly put together your resume the night before an interview. Check in with your references and be sure they understand that they may be contacted in the future by a potential employer.
Job Shadow
If you are only off from school for a week or a month, contact a local professional to set up a job shadow. Check with your parents or your friends to see if any of their parents may be viable options for a job shadow. If you do not know anyone in your desired field, search online for companies with your desired focus and call their human resources department. Professionals are often very open and excited to talk about their jobs, especially when you give them enough time to add you to their schedule. Be understanding of their busy schedule and call weeks in advance.
Volunteer
Employers love to see that job candidates are active in the community. Put in extra hours at an organization you currently volunteer for or contact the volunteer coordinator at one of your favorite charities to discuss ways you can help out. With a very low level of commitment and involvement, you can make a difference in the community while also boosting your resume.
Work or Intern
Job experience is invaluable to any college student looking to enter the job market so set aside your summers for working along with having a social life. Check company websites regularly for internship postings and contact your campus career center in the fall to discuss your plan for the upcoming year. Work experience gives you a taste of your potential job field so view your internship or job as a dress rehearsal for your future career. Network as much as possible and immerse yourself fully in the company.
Holiday and summer breaks are essential times to brand yourself as a future employee and gain the experience that will set you apart from other college grads. Allow yourself time to reenergize for the upcoming semester, but don’t let your time off from school go to waste.