5 Ways to Have a Successful Winter Break

What are your winter break plans? Yes, we know, it still seems like it’s a ways off… class and finals come first. But December is here and you’ll be packing up to go home before you know it. Below are a few easy ways you can make progress toward your career goals during the break. We promise you’ll still have plenty of time for Netflix, hot cocoa, naps, catching up with friends, and holiday traditions.

‘Tis the season to discover your gifts

Take advantage of some downtime over winter break to do a bit of soul searching. What are your skills and interests?  What’s important to you? Winter break is a great time to take an assessment. Make an appointment to review the assessments with a Career Coach when you return to campus.

Connect with others

Winter break is a great time to connect with family and friends. While you’re sitting around the holiday table or visiting with friends, ask questions such as:

• What was your path to your current position?
• What did you do to prepare for your first interview?
• What do you see as the trends in your field?

Consider using your time to expand your network. Create or update your profile on Eagle Exchange to connect with alumni around the globe and set up an informational interview.

Make a list, check it twice

Consider adding some of the following items to your holiday wish list. These will help you look and feel professional and organized during the search process!

• Professional portfolio, bag, or briefcase
• Business attire (e.g. business suit, ties, nice socks, belt, shoes)
• High quality webcam and / or microphone for virtual interviews
• A LinkedIn Premium account
• Gift card to order business cards
• Gift card to do something you love that will help you reduce stress through the job search

Out with the old, in with the new (year!)

Update the resume that you’ll be sending out for your upcoming job or internship search.

1. Add activities, leadership roles, class projects, and other experiences from fall semester as well as any skills you gained
2. Add relevant coursework
3. Update your GPA

For assistance in crafting and polishing your resume while you’re on break, review our website, which includes a step-by-step guide, a sample template, and link to sample resumes by career cluster.

Resolve to develop a new skill

If you find yourself with a little extra downtime over the break, consider starting off your new year by building up your abilities. Gain real world skills through a Forage virtual experience program with a top employer in an industry you are exploring. Or use LinkedIn Learning to develop anything from professional skills to coding.

So, what will you commit to doing for yourself and your career prep this winter break?

– Rachel Greenberg, Director, Career Education and Strategy