By: Bailey Talaska
Though winter break is relaxing, three weeks without school can sometimes lead to boredom. If you find yourself with nothing to do, consider these activities for getting ahead.
Work on your resume
While you’re sitting at home, start updating your resume. Add any new jobs or projects you’ve been working on, and make sure your wording is as effective as possible. Pay special attention to design, no matter what program you create your resume with. Design a layout that is clear, effective and unique.
Look for Internship and job opportunities
Break is the perfect time to research what companies might be hiring or looking for interns. While winter break isn't long enough to complete an internship, you can use the time to find one for the spring semester or the summer.
Network
While you have some extra time on your hands, network and get your name out there for future employers. One way to do this is by reaching out to anyone you’ve networked with previously or had an internship with. Send them an email or a card saying happy holidays and thanking them again for their time. This is a great way to remind them of your name.
Update social media platforms
While this is something many people don’t think about, more employers are looking at the social media pages of employees. Over break, clean up your accounts and make sure everything on your Twitter, Instagram and Facebook is something you wouldn’t mind your boss seeing. With professional social media channels like LinkedIn, make sure your profile is up to date just like your resume. This will help with future networking.
Create or update your portfolio
When applying for jobs and internships, employers will want examples of the work you’ve done. Going through and collecting pieces you have written and putting them together so you have it ready when you need it will make your life easier. If you have already have a portfolio, make sure it’s up to date with your newest work.
These activities will have you feeling more prepared for the upcoming semester and all of it’s professional opportunities. But most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy a wonderful, relaxing break.