(Ann Truong | THE BEACON)
You've sent out dozens of polished résumés and countless cover letters advertising your wit and skills. You've visited the career center, filled out online applications, even gone door-to-door - all to no avail.
Breathe. The summer has only begun. For a resourceful student with no job prospects, summer vacation isn't just a break from the lecture hall. It's a time to get ahead on your own time and your own terms. Students often worry that missing out on a valuable internship is career-damaging, but there are several other ways of having a productive summer sans internship.
Here are some tips to get you thinking.
Travel
Those four summer months are the perfect time to leave the comforts of your home country and explore distant destinations. It's a chance to absorb a new culture, a different language, and to pick up fresh perspective. Many career paths have global relevance, and the savvy student will pick a locale where he or she can mix academics with vacation to add some expertise to their resume.
Explore locally
If you're strapped for cash, get adventurous in your hometown. Those who are staying in Portland can have all the outdoor adventures they missed during the school year. Hit the bike trails, find some boulders to clamber over or a mountain to scale. Portland may not be the most famous city in the U.S., but it has a jazzy energy all of its own. Head out and explore those wacky and wonderful streets.
Volunteer in the community
It's never a bad idea to volunteer. Pick a cause you're passionate about and get ready to make a difference. Countless organizations are looking for helpful, energetic individuals committed to changing the world. You'll build useful connections, learn new skills and build your resume while doing meaningful work.
Get ahead in your major
You may have lucked out on a job, but that's no excuse to fall behind. Spending even more time in the classroom may not sound like the ideal summer plan, but it's practical. A little summer school now could mean flexibility senior year. Now is also the perfect time to look into graduate programs or to prepare for exams like the LSAT or GMAT.
Build skill sets
Use time out of the classroom to teach yourself something original. Perhaps you've always wanted to learn Swahili, tap dance or how to build your own car. It's time to stop pinning things to your DIY board on Pinterest and actually do something. There are countless online resources to help you get started and plenty of time to learn a new skill. You are your own boss this summer, so take the initiative and do something daring, creative and fun.
