Hey, Huskies! Summer break is just around the corner so it’s time to think about what you can do to maximize your summer— professionally. Breaks are the perfect time for college students to recharge, explore new opportunities, and –  yes I’m going to say it –  prepare for the semester ahead. Here are some painless ways you can do that without it being a drag on your fun:

1. Gain Experience: Consider taking on a part-time job, internship, or a volunteer opportunity, or by enrolling in a summer class. These are great ways to explore your interests while getting first hand experience, building a network and strengthening your resume – All of which helps you get ahead and keeps your mind active over break. That little girl you tutored? Her dad may be an executive of the company you want to work for. That retiree you chat it up with in your checkout line every Thursday? May realize you’re a perfect fit for their former company’s internship program.
2. Start Exploring Internships, Graduate or Study Abroad Programs: If you’re considering either of these programs the summer is a great time to do research and draft personal statements. And even though they seem super far away, keep an eye on deadlines! Big experiences require big preparation, so be sure to apply by the end of the fall.
3. Update Your Resume/LinkedIn: Remember how you said you were too busy to update your resume and LinkedIn this semester? This summer is a perfect time to do some quick edits! Are you really going to remember every relevant thing you did this semester in a year when you’re scrambling to apply? (Hint: you won’t) Keep one comprehensive resume that has everything that you can pull from and make a tailored resume for each job application. Quick tip: consider courses you took that are also relevant. Overwhelmed? Don’t know where you start? Attend a LinkedIn Lab this summer over Zoom. (RSVP on Handshake).
4. Reach Out to or Thank at least Five Industry Professionals: People appreciate knowing their efforts are meaningful, so let someone know how they positively impacted you with a hand-written note, or reach out via LinkedIn and update them on your professional progress.. ****Your effort will make you memorable in the event you ever apply to that company or organization.
5. Set New Goals for Next Semester: Write down specific goals for the upcoming semester– such as maintaining a certain GPA, attending office hours more often, or joining a club/team. Visualizing your goals helps boost your motivation and achieve those goals. Ask yourself these questions:
   1. Are you graduating this semester?
   2. What will take your industry knowledge to the next level?
   3. Do you regret anything from last semester?

By using your summer wisely, you can return to campus refreshed, motivated, and ready to succeed!