Make the most of summer as a university student
by Leanne Cohen
The semester is over, you finished your exams and handed in your papers. Now is the chance to make the most of your summer and explore other professional fields. Internships are not only a way to keep you busy during summer but allow you to dip into the world of your chosen career path and experience a taste of what your future might entail. During an internship, you make connections for the future. It’s an opportunity to develop skills and expand your knowledge in a hands-on way that cannot be replicated by reading a textbook.
How long?
Two months might seem like a prison sentence but once you begin, it flies by. Keep in mind that a longer placement allows more involvement with your team. You have the chance to get to know your colleagues and develop a routine. Two months allows for a better experience after overcoming the initial discomfort of being ‘the new kid’.
There can be perks!
It is useful to consider some other perks that come with a summer placement. Of course, an internship should be paid so you can afford to rest during your well-earned summer holiday. If all goes well, your employer will provide you with an excellent letter of recommendation which will certainly come in handy when you apply for jobs later. They might even be interested in hiring you after graduation.
Top Tips
Once you’ve got an internship, here are some tips before you show up for your first day:
- Dress accordingly — make sure to find out what people usually wear in the industry or field in which you will be doing your internship.
- Be on time — if there is nothing you can do, then let someone know.
- Be proactive — offer your help whenever you can and give your opinion or offer a different perspective on an issue when possible. Pay attention to the work being done in the office.
- Be honest and available — always come prepared and don’t forget to bring your laptop or notebook if required.
- And most importantly — next summer is not that far away. Start planning now!
