By Jocelyn Torres-Barbosa

As we approach the summer, many of you have found your next opportunity for the summer. This is an exciting time to develop those professional skills and learn new things. Each experience is different from the next but all have valuable opportunities that you can make the most out of. Here are some tips to make the most out of your summer experiences:

Set Clear Goals: Before going into your experience, it is important to understand what skills, knowledge, and responsibilities you hope to have. Even outlining what you hope to achieve is a first step into seeing what you can gain from this experience. Whether it’s gaining any specific skills, expanding a professional network, or landing a full-time offer, having clear goals will keep you motivated and focused throughout your experience. 

Be Proactive: Working experiences differs when it comes to learning new things. It’s important to take note of what learning experiences you can take advantage of in the workspace. The more proactive you are, the more you have to learn and can grow in your skill set. 

Build Relationships with the people you’re working with: Being able to network is a key part in any industry, so get to know those around you. They are a great resource for a number of reasons. Connecting with colleagues, supervisors or managers can help you learn more about their roles, work culture and environment, future career tips and so much more. You never know who might become a valuable mentor or advocate for your future career.

Seek Feedback: Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback on your work! Constructive criticism is an essential part of growth and development, so welcome feedback with an open mind and use it to improve your skills. Proactively seek out feedback from your supervisor and peers, and don’t forget to reflect on your own performance to identify areas for improvement.

Reflect and Learn: Take a moment to look back on all that you have been able to accomplish throughout your experience. Try highlighting new skills you’ve developed, projects you’ve completed, and any new interests or values. When you’ve done that, incorporate these experiences into your LinkedIn profile, resume and cover letters! Additionally, reflect on your experience and see if it reaffirms your academic and career goals. Use this opportunity to chart your next steps into the professional world. 

Remember, your experience is more than something to just add on a resume. It’s an opportunity to gain real-world experience, build valuable connections, and to possibly kickstart your career path. Make the most of every opportunity, stay curious and embrace the challenge to learn and grow! 

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Need more guidance on utilizing your tools when it comes to future experiences. Whether you’re a senior looking for post graduate opportunities, an alumni looking for a new opportunity or a student looking for employment opportunities, we are here to help you. Book an appointment with Jocelyn, or another member of the advising community through Handshake, or by calling the front desk at (773) 325-7431.