Spring break means no class! You can chill, party, work, or travel. But what about using this time to get ahead of your professional journey? Here are a few things you can do:
1. Update your résumé (and your LinkedIn profile)
Spring break is a great time to review your résumé and add new achievements to showcase your skills and experience. Use this Résumé Guide to optimize your résumé and get a 15-minute express résumé review from the Office of Career Education (OCE)!
Your LinkedIn profile should reflect your most recent accomplishments. You can use LinkedIn to connect with your classmates, professors, supervisors, Arcadia alumni, and professionals you met at different events. A strong LinkedIn profile will help you build connections with future employers and add to your personal brand. Arcadia students are welcome to stop by the OCE to get a LinkedIn headshot for free!
2. Network, network, network
Networking doesn’t have to be nerve-wracking! It can be as easy as talking to your family and friends about your career search or about someone they know who might be hiring. Conducting Informational interviews is another effective way to learn about the industry of your interest from a professional, and these connections could potentially lead to future internships and jobs!
If you prefer meeting multiple employers on a single occasion, there are many amazing events: Bucks County Teacher Recruitment Fair (March 12, 4 – 8 PM), Sports Management Conference at Gwynedd Mercy University (April 4, 6 – 8 PM), Cookout with Careers at Eastern University (April 11, 11 AM – 2 PM), and more! Also, don’t forget to prepare your elevator pitch before you write or talk to new people.
3. Apply to summer jobs, internships, volunteer programs
Most applications for summer positions close at the end of March. Begin applying now with your updated résumé (and cover letter). To start your search, use Handshake to find available positions, utilize filters to narrow down your search, and follow the instructions to apply. If you are not ready to apply yet, make sure to save the positions so that you don’t miss the application deadlines.
Spring break may only be a week but you can plan for your future now and save a lot of time and stress in the long run. The OCE is here to help you every step of the way! If you need help, please schedule a meeting with the OCE, or stop by Knight Hall 100. Have a wonderful spring break! 😎
