Are you a member of the Class of 2009? I bet you’re freaking out just a little bit right now, wondering how you will achieve your dreams and end up with the career you’ve always wanted. Well, the first step in doing so is recognizing that things may not happen right away, so while you’re looking for that dream job this summer and going to lots of interviews, here are ten ways to get by during the upcoming summer (with some great career ideas to look into as well).
10. Learn something you wish you learned in college – Did you not have time to take a certain language? Or maybe you always wanted to learn to play tennis but you just couldn’t fit it in your extracurriculars. The summer after you graduate from college while you job search is a great time to start something new such as these activities.
Things to consider: Rosetta Stone language learning system, local community college classes
9. Catch up with old friends and family – If you went to school far away, I can bet that you’ve missed your old friends from high school that you kept in touch with or (gasp!) even your family. Now is a great time to reconnect.
Related careers: family law, therapist, family counselor
8. Travel to somewhere you’ve always wanted to – Did you miss out on studying abroad and regret it? This summer would be a really convenient time to travel with no responsibilities. You could always pitch it to your parents as “hey, I’m just waiting out the economy!”
Related careers: Travel journalist, travel agent
7. Pull an Adventureland – Get a job working at your local diner, amusement park or community pool. You may end up meeting the love of your life and having a kickass summer. It worked in the movies right?
Related careers: Hospitality management, manager of diner, amusement park, pool, etc.
6. Volunteer – If you’ve always been interested in animals, the summer after you’ve hung up your cap and gown could be a great time to volunteer at the local animal shelter. I personally love working with children and would spend some summers volunteering at my local church Bible Camp. The Peace Corps is also a great program to look into.
Related careers: Teacher, Teach for America, Peace Corps
5. Catch up on your favorite TV shows – I know there were some shows in college that I always wished I could get into, like “The Office.” I started watching via DVDs and the Internet after college, and, boy, am I now hooked.
Related careers: television producer, writer, reviewer
4. Spend the summer at the movies – The summer is the best time for movies, so if you find yourself bored, head to your nearest multiplex and enjoy the latest action thriller or romantic comedy from your favorite celebrity.
Related careers: movie producer, director, actor/actress
3. Visit friends from college – I’m sure most of your friends are in the same boat, so what better time to head to their respective hometowns and learn more about where they grew up?
Things to consider: statravel.com, orbitz.com, AAA and other travel deals this summer
2. Apply for jobs – This is an obvious thing to do, but for those of you who didn’t think it, apply, apply, apply! It doesn’t hurt to even broaden your horizons and apply for positions you don’t think you’d get or may not be 100 percent interested in, because they may turn out to be your dream job.
Things to consider: monster.com, careerbuilder.com, your college career/alumni advisor 1. Relax! – You just completed college. Enjoy your time off!
1. Keep pursuing your dreams but definitely take time out for yourself so you don’t overly stress out.
Basically, it’s important to remember that things take time. Your career will happen with the right attitude and plenty of determination.
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