For The University of Olivet students, the fall semester ended with final exams and Comets are officially enjoying winter break. In January, the spring semester will kick off, but what’s the best way to spend the month-long break in the middle? While it’s tempting to sleep in and enjoy the down time, here are seven tips to motivate students to make the most of winter break.
1. Apply for jobs and internships. Kick off the search for your ideal summer internship or dream job during winter break. Research fields, locations and companies that match up with your career goals. Learn about application processes and deadlines to ensure you’re ready when internships open.
2. Take advantage of your down time to clean up your resume, refresh your cover letter or update your LinkedIn profile. When applying for jobs and internships, you often have to make a great first impression via nothing but a piece of paper – help yours stand out.
3. Shop for professional clothing. The holiday season means lots of shopping, and also lots of sales. While you’re at the mall picking up a few gifts, take advantage of the deals and end-of-season clearance racks to find the perfectly tailored blazer or pants that blend comfort and function. You’ll thank yourself when you land an interview for your dream job or internship spur of the moment.
4. Plan for your future. Achieving success takes more than a fancy suit and polished resume. For underclassmen, review your four-year plan and goals to make sure they align, and for upperclassman, forming a budget is great way to plan for life after graduation.
5. Get ahead in class or learn a new skill. Want to cut down on homework during the semester? Buy textbooks and get ahead on the required reading over winter break. Or, if you’re taking a new class in the spring, brush up on the specialized skills you need to succeed. Watch YouTube videos to learn more about video production or the ins-and-outs of Photoshop to gain some background knowledge before jumping into the coursework, or use your Netflix subscription to watch a documentary on the same subject as your history course.
6. Set new goals. Reflect on the progress you made in 2017, and challenge yourself to Be MORE and Do GOOD in 2018. Spend some time thinking about where you want to be and determine how you’ll get there. Whether it be a New Year’s resolution or a short term goal, give yourself something to work toward.
7. Relax, have fun and make memories. Winter break doesn’t have to be all work and no play, but rather a happy balance between the two. Take time to connect with family and friends to celebrate the season. Bake cookies or go ice skating for some traditional fun, or sleep in and lounge in your pajamas all day to truly unwind. The opportunities are endless!
Noticing a common theme? Career preparation can be difficult to balance with coursework, campus events, athletic practices and other obligations during the semester, but it’s ultimately the most important aspect of college.
Learn more about The University of Olivet by visiting campus, applying or contacting the Office of Admissions at 800.456.7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu.