How to Gain Valuable Skills this Summer Without an Internship

Because many employers are looking for students that have taken some of their major core courses, it may be difficult for second semester freshman or even some sophomores to find internships. Don’t let this be discouraging as there are a variety of different ways that you can gain valuable career related experiences during the summer months:

Job Shadowing - is defined as an academically motivated activity designed to give students the unique opportunity of an up-close look at the world of work. This basically means that it is a chance for you, as a student, to see firsthand what a certain job or career really looks like. For instance, if you are interested in becoming an advertising executive, physician, civil engineer, social worker or project manager, take the time this summer to find a professional in your field and ask them if you can go to work with them for a day or even a week.  There is nothing more informative than experiencing what a job is like in the actual work environment.

Networking - is the art of building alliances, it starts long before a job search, and you probably don't even realize you are doing it. This summer learn about different professions through your family and their friends. Also, find out what companies and organizations they work for and learn as much as possible about the industries that you want to work in.  You never know, the people you talk with this summer may be the same individuals who help you find an internship or even a job upon graduation.

Building Transferable Skills - Just because you are working part-time at a restaurant, community pool or any other “summer job” it doesn’t mean that you aren’t building your resume.  Every job experience is an opportunity to build transferable skills that employers are looking for.  While engaged in your part-time or “summer job” focus on communication, leadership, problem solving, critical thinking and other transferable skills. Building these skills will give you experiences and situations that you can add to your resume and talk about in an interview.

Writing Your Resume - If you haven’t created a first draft of your resume now is the time!  A good way to start is by writing down all of the organizations that you have been a part of, jobs you have had, skills you developed and activities that you have done.  Once you have a complete list, put the information together in an easy to read format.  Don’t have a format?  No problem!  Take a look at the career center website at career.clemson.edu and use the resume samples.  The career center is open all summer so if you are in the area and want to have your resume critiqued visit us on the 3rd floor of Student Hendrix Center or give us a call at (864) 656-0440. We are always happy to help!

Whether working a 40 hour a week internship or a 25 hour a week part-time job, there are many ways to have a great time this summer while continuing to take steps toward your career goals