I just finished my freshman year and I didn’t get an internship. I’m worried this will set me back professionally. What’s the best way for me to use my summer to build my resume and become more well-rounded?
Kelsey, Texas A&M, College Station, TX
Hi Kelsey,
It's great that you're thinking about how to make the most of your summer! An internship is definitely not the only way for you to build your resume. Here are some of our recommendations:
- Look for volunteer opportunities related to your field of study or interests. This will showcase your passion for your field of study.
- Enhance your skills by taking online courses or workshops. There are several online platforms that offer a wide range of topics.
- Embark upon a personal project. Whether it's a blog, a YouTube channel, a coding project, or a creative endeavor, working on a personal project can showcase your initiative and skills, and can look great on a portfolio in the future.
- Use the summer to learn a new skill that can enhance your resume, such as a programming language, graphic design, or digital marketing.
- Connect with professionals in your field through LinkedIn or industry events. You never know who you could meet or how they could impact your life, provide valuable insights, and potentially lead to future opportunities.
Most of all, remember, the key is to use your summer productively and to showcase your skills, interests, and commitment to potential employers or graduate programs. Follow your own interests and skills, seize new opportunities, and this summer could easily be one of the most productive summers of your life.
Sincerely,
VT
Resources We Love: Varsity Tutors offers a wide variety of classes, including coding languages, financial literacy, and language skills, all available with a Learning Membership, which will go a long way on the Skills portion of your resume.