Spring Break is over and the countdown to summer has begun. With only five short weeks left of school, it is time to prepare for whatever it is summer may hold. Whether you hope to be interning, working, or traveling, these sources will help you make the most of your summer vacation…
Internships
These days it is near impossible to get a job without at least one internship if not more under your belt. It is never too soon to start interning and there are still many positions open for summer 2012.
Lauren Berger, also known as “The Intern Queen,” completed fifteen internships for companies such as MTV, FOX, and NBC during her years in college. She recently published a book entitled “All Work, No Pay,” a guidebook to finding an internship, building your resume, making connections, and gaining job experience. Her book, as well as her website www.internqueen.comare both very useful resources for college girls who are hoping to find an internship.
Additional Useful Books:
What Color Is Your Parachute?A Practical Manual for Job-Hunters and Career Changers by Richard N. Bolles
Effective ImmediatelyHow to Fit In, Stand Out, and Move Up at Your First Real Job By Emily Bennington and Skip Lineberg
Resume 101 A Student and Recent Grad Guide to Crafting Resumes and Cover Letters that Land JobsBy Quentin J. Schultze
10 Things Employers Want You to Learn inCollegeThe Know-How You Need to Succeed By Bill Coplin
Additional Useful Websites:
Monster College: http://college.monster.com/education
College Recruiter: http://www.collegerecruiter.com/
Indeed: www.indeed.com
Simply Hired: www.simplyhired.com
JuJu: www.juju.com
In addition to these outside sources, our very own UMass Career Services hosts many different kinds of events, which can be extremely helpful. You can find a full list of events at their website: http://www.umass.edu/careers/. There are also internship information sessions every Monday at 12:30 pm and Tuesday at 5:00 pm in 508 Goodell while classes are in session.
Jobs
Summer jobs can be difficult to find, as employers often need more full-time help as opposed to only a few months worth. Though, there are special circumstances such as childcare, seasonal restaurants, and camps that do require help solely in the summer months.
If you have a lot of patience, and a love of children try www.Care.com. I have found my past three summer jobs on the site and the best part of being a babysitter is it’s tax-free!
If you are interested in becoming a camp counselor visit your local town website and check out what summer camps they have going on. This is where you can also find other great positions such as becoming a lifeguard for your town pool or beach.
Despite the skepticism brought on by the Craigslist Killer, I still find www.Craigslist.comto be very useful when searching for local jobs. I got my first job at a high-end cupcake bakery on Craigslist and it turned out to be one of the best experiences! Though, I suggest always using caution and reading these tips before responding to any posts: http://www.myid.com/blog/tips-for-staying-safe-on-craigslist/.
Travel
There are tons of travel sites out there to help you fly, boat, stay, and dine on a budget. However, why not try something a little different?
Groupon: www.groupon.com
Many of you have probably heard of Groupon. I myself have utilized its amazing deals for little adventures such as kayaking and comedy clubs. Did you know that Groupon now also offers on getaways? The best part is, you don’t know what kind of a deal you are going to get so you may be exposed to places you would have never thought to visit! Playa Del Carmen, anyone?
AirBNB: www.airbnb.com
Airbnb is an amazing new concept in which you can stay in a home for much cheaper than a hotel. There are many options and many destinations. You can stay for as little as a weekend or as long as a week, with or without a host, in a bedroom within a house or have the entire house to yourself! You can read reviews left by previous guests and speak to the host before booking. It’s a great option for students.
Enjoy the last few weeks of the semester, collegiettes and have a fun and productive summer!