How to Stay Productive during Summer without an Internship
In college, there is a consistent, underlying pressure to get as much experience as possible, and during summer that experience usually manifests as internships. Don’t get me wrong — this isn’t an inherently negative thing, it’s very important to take initiative and utilize the opportunities available to you during college so that you’re in a comfortable and confident place when it’s over. However — on the other hand, this means that when you aren’t able to achieve this, which could happen for a variety of reasons, it can feel like you’re falling behind and that you’ll never be able to catch up.
That’s bad. And more importantly, it hinders your ability to remain productive because you think there’s no use. Which is also very, very wrong.
So let’s talk about what NOT having a summer internship really means (hint hint: it doesn’t mean all your friends are lapping you in success and that your whole world will fall apart tomorrow.) And some other PRODUCTIVE things you can do this summer instead of sulk.
1) Don’t spend too much time feeling sorry for yourself!
This is the first and hardest step. Yes, you didn’t get the internship you wanted. Yes, it feels like everyone else you know from high school and beyond did. It sucks, but it’s not the end of the world. Remember when you’re scrolling through Facebook and Instagram seeing all the cool things your friends and not-friends are doing that the downside of social media is people only display accomplishments and not mistakes; try to be happy for them and remember their lives weren’t made perfect by getting that opportunity just like your’s wasn’t ruined by not getting it.
2) Get a part-time job!
Money is money, and for most college students, it’s something they could probably use more of. Going back to your high school part-time job isn’t shameful, and unless you despise it — it’s a solid method of getting money. If you do want a change, look for a different one! Research opportunities in your hometown and apply for something out of your comfort zone.
However — don’t be afraid to volunteer also! It may not pay, but it’s a great way to experience responsibility and meet new people all while giving back.
3) Learn something new!
Along those same lines — use this time to find new hobbies! Practice cooking things that aren’t cereal so that you’re able to make your all favorites once school starts up again. Dedicate time to re-learning that language you took for five years in high school but completely forgot. Summer is the perfect time to round-out your interests and advance your abilities when you can focus on them. Let your free time motivate you and not depress you!
4) Take this time to do things you wanted to during the school year!
Remember that movie you really wanted to see but couldn’t find the time or energy to watch? Or that new coffee or pizza shop in your hometown that your family keeps talking about? Do that stuff now while you have the time! It’s hard to do everything you want to during the semester with all the assignments and various involvements you have — so while you don’t have major commitments, let yourself relax and catch up on your favorite shows.
5) Prepare for your classes (and maybe get ahead!)
Summer is 3(ish) months where you most-likely already know what courses you’re taking in the fall and actually have the time to familiarize yourself with them before they begin. If available, check out the syllabus as soon as possible and spend time researching the subject. This can help you conceptualize how hard it may be for you while also giving you the benefit of teaching yourself some basic concepts before the class starts. You’ll love yourself for doing this in September when nothing the professor says on day one is surprising.
6) Practice whatever it is that you’re studying!
Are you a writing major who realized that they only write for assignments and never for fun anymore like me? It’s hard to remember why you chose to study what you are while you’re knee-deep in assignments during the semester — so take this break to re-introduce yourself to your concentration and practice it in whatever form that takes. The internet is a wonderful place (especially LinkedIn) where you can learn about and talk to people who are doing what you want to. Reach out and research all that you can about your career!
7) Seriously, relax.
It’s hard not to feel guilty watching TV or hanging out with your friends while you think everyone else is finding the cure for cancer and meeting their idols. But remember — you worked super hard this past year and deserve a break. Moreover, it’s important to remember that no one is productive 100% of the time, and that’s OKAY.
All in all, summer can be a great time to focus on things you aren’t able to during the semester. Stop concentrating on what you aren’t doing and put your energy into doing new things!
Internships have the power to make a summer great, but so do you!
