Calling all College Students!

by Andres, My Daily Cafe Contributor

Twitter: @AndresWalters

That time all college students have anxiously been awaiting is finally here….Summer! Most college students are now free for the next 2 months, ready to soak up some sun and catch up with some old friends. While taking some time off to recuperate from demanding semesters is great, so is taking advantage of the free time to put yourself ahead of all the others. “Employers are looking for students who have done meaningful work,” says Lynn O’Shaughnessy author of College Solution. “They’re not just interested in students who may have devoted a lot of time studying and getting straight A’s. They want students who have shown initiative, are motivated and have pursued interest outside the classroom.” In today’s competitive job market it’s crucial to take initiative to remain one step ahead of everyone else. Here are some tips on how to do that: Internships! You need to gain all the experience possible in your field and internships are a great way to do that. Doing things hands on allows you to learn more effectively. Also, they can allow you to establish connections for future reference when you’re ready to look for employment after college.

Academic Activities. In reality you’re not going to be busy seven days a week during your Summer vacation. Look into taking some classes at your local community college once or twice a week. It could, in the end, shave off some time from the degree you’re pursuing. It’ll also help keep your brain active so, when returning to school in the fall you don’t end up with a brain fart for the first semester.

Finally, for those of you who aren’t able to land the internship in the field of your choice, why not create your own individual project? Take matters into your own hand. An individual project allows flexibility in your schedule and it also demonstrates excellent leadership skills. It’s always said, if you want things done right you’ve got to do it yourself. This type of project allows you to mold and create your idea into reality.

So this Summer, take initiative and use your free time to work at or towards something you hope to do for the rest of your life.