OUTSTANDING LANDINGS

Summer vacation is right around the corner. What are your plans? Relaxing? Working? Summer school? This year, why not make your summer work for you and your future. Think ahead to what you’re looking forward to next year. Is it a career? College? Scholarships? Here are 3 ways summer vacation can help your goals.

Intern – looking for a summer job? Instead of the same old restaurant, car wash, etc, why not intern with a company that does something of interest to you? While it’s true you may end up doing some “grunt work,” and be paid little (if at all), at least you’ll be around people doing what interests you, and have the opportunity to pick their brains. Don’t wait for an opportunity to fall in your lap – find a company you’re interested in and ask.

Volunteer – want a great way to “beef up” your resume or scholarship application? Volunteer your time and strengths with a local organization. Again, select a group that has personal interest – teaching kids, building homes, summer youth camps, etc. Giving back to your community is an awesome way to enhance your future goals.

Job-Shadow – I discussed this in detail here, but it’s worth repeating. Find someone who has the job/career you want (or think you may want), and ask to “shadow” them for a few weeks. Ask questions, offer help/solutions, and soak in their expertise. It’s a great way to determine if that career is right for you.

Don’t “work” this summer, put summer to work for you!

(Photo: callecakes)