Dear Diane,
I am on summer break from college, and after a semester of online training due to COVID-19, I fear I am going to lose some of my edge. I am feeling motivated to continue to learn but don’t want to commit to an entire summer workload. Do you have any suggestions for a college sophomore who is home for the summer?
Thank you,
Amy A.
Dear Amy,
I commend you for wanting to stay sharp over the summer months. I know this has been a tough semester for many different reasons. My own daughter is a sophomore and she is taking on two internships and two virtual jobs. You millennials are hard workers! Here are a few simple suggestions you may find helpful.
How College Students Can Keep Their Skills Sharp During the Summer
Summer vacation is a well-deserved break, especially this particular summer when college students were abruptly moved home and thrown into online learning. Summer is a time to take a breath, but it’s also important to keep your mental batteries charged. Use this downtime to prepare for your future. Here are some summer tips on how to stay prepared for the coming school semester.
Registering for Free Online College Courses/ Paid Masterclasses
Many universities offer summer courses for specific credits for students that want to get ahead of their studies. Get in touch with your career service center or your academic mentor to inquire about summer opportunities. Utilize the university resources and connect on a personal level with staff who will get familiar with you and remember you when a job opportunity comes along.
Don’t overlook the value of YouTube and masterclass videos. While there is a fee associate with some masterclass’s, it may be exactly what you need to continue your education journey. Finding classes that interest you, even if they are not related to your degree, keep your mind sharp and your interests high.
Work on Your Resume
The hectic environment of campus life can sometimes make you forget smaller tasks like updating your resume. Setting aside time to look over your current transcript and resume during the summer will make it easier for you during the school year when applying for jobs, leadership positions in organizations and scholarships. Have more than one person look over your resume to make sure it makes sense as a stand-alone document without you explaining any jargon. Recruiters and organizations put a high value on the time you spend fine-tuning details on your vitae.
Commit to a Physical and Mental Activity
Exercise is a healthy way to keep your mind and body aligned. Research a good workout you can do from home or the park. Grab a buddy and get moving. Exercise not only benefits your body but your mind. Exercise relieves stress and helps you sleep better.
Taking time out of your day to sit with your thoughts is just as important as keeping busy. Whether you need silence, specific music, or an online guided meditation video to feel at peace, spend time indulging in a mental health break each day. Set a daily reminder to be kind to your body and soul.
Volunteer
Although working for wages and completing internships is always important for gaining experience in the workforce, don’t forget to spend time in your community. Volunteer work allows you to put your efforts into causes where you can make an impact.
