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I know. The semester just ended, who’s trying to dive right back into thinking about school!?!? Don’t worry, these are small, yet impactful steps you can take. Probably won’t take more than thirty minutes of your break!
1. Get an early start on preparing for next semester
One thing you can do is Introduce yourself to your professors for the Spring semester. See if you can get the name of the required text and find a used copy for sale or a free copy online. If you’re taking a class over again, get with a classmate who passed and see if they're willing to share their notes, old quizzes, tests, or projects. Anything you can get your hands on will be an advantage. Purchase your notebooks, pencils, pens, and. any supplies you’ll need for the Spring. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
2. Volunteer and Get Some Community Service Hours
Giving back to the community is always a good move to keep yourself grounded. Some colleges require a certain amount of community service hours before graduating. If there is a cause you’re passionate about, start there. If there’s nothing going on in your city, see if you can volunteer at your church or local shelter. Still nothing? You should organize a community event. It’ll not only have a great impact, it’ll be great to put on a resume and further develop your leadership skills.
3. Interview and Shadow a Professional In Your Desired Career Field.
One thing I wish I would’ve done more when I was in college is speak with professionals in my anticipated field and pick their brain. Most will love the opportunity to share their knowledge and wisdom with you. Depending on their profession, there may be an opportunity to shadow them for a full or half-day. It’s worth asking. This will give you a chance to learn from them the practical skills it will take to be successful. I know you’re reading a lot about it in college, but what’s happening in real life from real people in the field is so much more valuable. Also, you’re networking without even knowing it. If you’re not able to shadow anyone, interview as many professionals as you have time for and keep these relationships warm.
4. Give Back To Your High School
High school guidance counselors are always looking for help with the Senior class. Reach out and see if there’s anything you can help with. If they don’t have anything, ask if you can come back and speak to a class and let them know your experiences in college so far. There's nothing like paying it forward. Share some advice you wish someone shared with you during your Senior year of high school. If you’re still good friends with others from your graduating class, try to organize a panel of alumni. Share your email with Seniors so they can continue to reach out if they need advice and motivation. You’d be surprised how much it’ll push you and bring you joy.
Comment below with what you're planning do during your break.
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