Ask the Coach

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Ask the Coach 〰️

I don’t have an internship or job lined up this summer and am worried about falling behind. What can I do to make my summer count?

Don’t panic — a summer without a job or internship doesn’t have to be a setback. With the right mindset and a strategic approach, you can turn this time into a valuable opportunity to invest in your future career potential. Follow these five steps to make your summer productive and rewarding:

 

  1. Be Your Own Boss: Pick something you’re passionate about and launch a project that showcases your initiative and leadership. This could be a blog, app, community event, or any project you can create and execute.

  2. Upskill Strategically: Develop soft skills like communication and project management, along with technical skills relevant to your career goals. Consider online courses, workshops, or mentorship programs that enable you to learn a variety of important skills simultaneously.

  3. Expand Your Network: Build a robust professional network by proactively engaging with professionals in target industries through informational interviews, coffee chats, and in-person events. Leverage these connections to gain valuable insights and career advice. By making a point to nurture the relationships you’ve built, you’ll find mentors and advocates who can open doors to future job opportunities.

  4. Engage with Your Community: Volunteer your skills to a cause you care about. Nonprofits often need help with fundraising, finances, communications, marketing, and more. This is a great way to gain experience, develop transferable skills, and give back to your community.

  5. Craft Your Personal Narrative: Document your journey from beginning to end, including projects completed, skills learned, and challenges overcome, to build a compelling narrative that showcases your growth, ambition, and potential. Refine your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect this story, establishing a strong personal brand that will help you stand out in the job market.

Remember, a summer without a traditional job or internship isn’t a lost opportunity. By focusing on personal and professional development, you can make productive progress toward your career goals.

Need more guidance? Our dedicated career coaches can help you take charge of your career this summer and beyond.

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