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How to Maximize Your Break

Six tips for a productive and rewarding break

Summer break, especially, seems to stretch endlessly, filled with promise when viewed from the middle of May. However, without a plan it’s easy to find yourself in mid August without any progress toward accomplishing your goals. Keep reading for ideas on how to capitalize on the promise of the summer, fall or spring break.

Prepare for Grad School

Get organized! Make checklists of the items that need to be taken care of to prepare for grad school, such as:

  • Your requirements for a graduate program.
  • Your preferred grad schools that meet the above requirements.
  • Admission requirements and the application process for each program or school.
  • Prepare for and take the GRE if it’s required for admission.

Get ready for the admission interview and/or write your essay (statement of purpose). Consider writing a curriculum vitae or CV to include with your application. Your CV may be one page or less but it’s never too early to start.

Reach out to former professors and/or employers to request professional references.

Take a Class

You may need to take a pre-entrance or requirement course to get into the graduate program of your choice. Taking a needed class before applying is a great way to improve your chances of meeting the admission criteria. Some graduate programs will allow you to begin taking classes toward your degree requirements before you’re formally admitted into the program. Take advantage of this option to get started right away without losing time toward reaching your education goals.

Work or Volunteer

Seek out internships, research opportunities, or other prospects for either earning a wage in exchange for your expertise or donating your time and knowledge to gain experience. These types of activities may improve your chances of acceptance to grad school and earn you excellent references.

Take on a Project

Have you ever wanted to develop or build on your skills in a field that interests you but is different from or an extension of your professional or educational goals? Remodeling that room in your house, organizing the neighborhood watch program, or taking on a project related to your career aspirations will demonstrate that you use your time wisely and can select a goal and stick with it through completion.

Join Associations or Groups

Joining and participating in various associations or groups will help you excel in several ways. For example, becoming a member of Toastmasters will help you hone your speaking and leadership skills. Membership in NBA (National Business Association) will allow you access to cutting-edge information, networking opportunities and career development tools among other benefits.

Build Your Network

If you haven’t already, start building your presence on social networks such as LinkedIn and Facebook. 

Social media sites offer the opportunity to build your own community and create a brand for yourself as well as network with others. Think about connecting with your college’s alumni network. Alumni are a valuable resource for asking questions and receiving advice and tips about your field of interest.

Graduate programs as well as prospective employers will favor those candidates who demonstrate initiative and drive. Be prepared to prove your worth!