Worried about what to do this summer? Don’t sweat it! There are plenty of other options besides internships and leadership programs that you might not have considered.
1. Take Classes
It might not sound too exciting when you’re supposed to be having a “break” from school, but it can’t hurt to take just one or two classes, especially if it means your schedule during the year will be a little lighter.
Notre Dame offers several courses, many of which don’t even last the whole summer. Take one of these and you could still have a few weeks to relax at home! Otherwise, if you don’t want to stay here in South Bend, try looking for some basic requirement classes offered at other schools. Just make sure you speak to an advisor to see which course credits would transfer.
If neither of the above options works out and you’re feeling adventurous take a class just for fun. Try something new like studio art or acting. You might not be able to get college credit for it, but you could find a great new hobby.
2. Go Abroad
Whether you go through a Notre Dame program or not, the chance to live in a new country and learn their culture is one that you might not have again.
If you don’t think you’ll be able to do a college program, create your own international adventure! Get a few friends together and pool your money to go on a quick trip somewhere you’ve never been. Look for cheap hotels and airfare deals. There are plenty of college-friendly travel programs such as AirTranU or StudentUniverse that will help you find deals on everything from flights and hotels to tours and transportation.
3. Get a Summer Job
With the job market today, it’s not an easy task for a college student to find a summer job, so if you want one, start looking now! Reach out to as many people employers as you can. The worst that can happen is they don’t hire you. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help from any adults you know. Having a good recommendation can really bring you to the front of the employers’ minds.
Go for the typical jobs like lifeguard or nanny, but don’t be afraid to try something new either! Think of something you love and go from there. If you love animals try working for a pet store. If you’re more into fashion try both big name stores like J.Crew and any smaller boutiques around your town.
4. Volunteer
If you would rather do something nice for your community, or simply just can’t find a job, try doing service work. You might not be able to earn any money, but it’s nice to fill up some of your time in the summer, and it’s much better for your résumé than doing nothing!
There is a volunteer position for every type of person. If you love working with kids, try talking to some of the daycares in your city. If you would rather work with the elderly, go for nursing homes. I’ve worked with both of these groups and it’s very rewarding to see the smiles on their faces when you return day after day. You might even end up with a new and unexpected friend!
If you’re not into working with people, there are still opportunities out there. Contact your humane society for a chance to help out there. Another great place for the animal lover is the local wildlife refuge center or zoo. There you would have the chance to work with more unusual animals as opposed to the typical cats and dogs.