How to Keep Your Summer Exciting Without a Job or Internship
Summer is just about here! Along with the usual summer activities of beachgoing and rooftop lounging, it also happens to be “internship or finding a job” season for college students and recent graduates. But if you haven’t found either, what does your summer consist of? Unfortunately, my job and internship applications were rescinded in March due to the pandemic, I was laid off from my part-time job, and my usual summer job as a camp counselor got cancelled, too. I felt so helpless on what my next step should be. No one was hiring and it felt like a roadblock in the middle of trying to advance my career.
“Now what do I do with my summer?” and “How do I get my life on track?” are the questions that keep coming up as I think about the months ahead. This summer, I’m taking the time to focus on myself.
Photo: Pinterest
Connect and Engage
It has always been my dream to work in fashion so I want to do at least one productive thing this summer to network and make connections that can help me advance my career in the future. Social media is such a great tool to get to know people and connect with industry leaders at the tap of a screen. This method of networking is easy and accessible, so it’s best to use it to your advantage. Find the people who work in the circles you want to work with on LinkedIn and send them a personalized message! It won’t hurt to learn more about the industry and set up an informational interview.
Here’s a great template you can send when reaching out.
Hi [name] – Hope you’re well! I am a student at / recent graduate of [school]. I found your LinkedIn profile through [mutual connection / mutual group / mutual school] and am interested to learn about your background in [their industry]. Do you have any availability to connect either online or over the phone? Thank you so much! – [Your name]
Photo: Pinterest
Find a good book and read
Being able to find the time to read this summer is amazing! I often feel like I am so busy during the summer months that I only get through a few books. But, this year, I am committing myself to reading as much as possible in order to learn and improve, since I finally have the time. Plus, a good book and a drink poolside sounds like heaven. I’m focusing on books about identity, feminism, mental wellness, and strength. Hood Feminism by Mikki Kendall and Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb are on the top of my reading list for the summer.
Photo: Pinterest
Guided Meditation
We can’t pretend that a global pandemic makes things easy. With all the anxiety that it’s causing, it’s hard to keep positive and not be stressed. Guided meditation has been my solution to that. I started using the Headspace app as a meditation tool. Their guided meditations relaxed me during times where I felt overwhelmed and anxious. There are also some great guided meditation videos on YouTube. These were great to start my mornings or even during the day when I just needed a breather. It’s always good to give your mind a break! Benefits of guided meditation include lengthening your attention span, reducing stress and anxiety, and even improving your sleep.
Photo: Pinterest
Roadtrip
Traveling by airplane isn’t the preferred method of transportation right now, so what’s better than an old fashioned road trip? Even if it’s just for a weekend! Map out your ride and stop at museums, local restaurants, landmarks, and beaches or parks. Grab some friends, some snacks, and hit the road!
Photo: Twitter
DIY Paint and Sip
Paint and Sips have become a big hit over the past couple of years. What’s not to love? Painting and drinking wine sounds like the perfect combination to me! It’s a great group activity that can easily be added to your day. Instead of making a reservation this summer, grab your favorite bottle of wine and set up a space in your backyard to create your masterpiece.
Just because your summer looks a little different this year doesn’t mean you can’t be productive and have a little fun. Get out there and make some summer memories!
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