Summer Break Opportunities

As another semester is coming to an end, what should students do on their summer break? While most students would love to spend their summer on the beach, you also don't want to waste the entire summer when there are so many opportunities. You can still have a few days on the beach, but here are some other options to consider.  

Work is a great way to earn some money and save up for next year. While many students dream of landing the most amazing job opportunity ever, reality is they often find work in service industry. Working at the mall or a restaurant isn't so bad, your bank account is growing and you get a great discount! You might miss out on a few events, but learning responsibility is important. If there are any major events this summer, make sure to ask for them off well in advance, otherwise try trading with a coworker. 

Internships are a great way to gain experience. You may not get compensated, although you will gain some incredible job experience and have something to put on your resume. If you are lucky, some businesses do offer a paid position, or offer some other benefits.

Create your own experience. One of my goals this summer is to create a personal blog that has a professional tone. I will also work on socially networking online to gain more momentum in building my experience. This will help put more positive information out there about my name. I can provide this on my administrative assistant resume next year while searching for my dream job. Other ideas are writing a book, screen play, or creating a short film.

Continue on with school. Even if you only take 6 credits for spring and another 6 credits for summer, you will be a full semester ahead by fall! Ask your school about options between winter and fall terms. Some schools offer some classes online, so you could stay at home if your school is a distance from home. Yet another option is taking classes at a community college that will transfer to your school.

Interested in Becoming a College Professor?

While most college students hate homework, some decide they want to turn the tables one day. What does it take to become a college professor? 

It depends on what you are interested in. I was interested in a career in education, more specifically in becoming a Communications professor. I talked with the department head and he asked me to look at professors' backgrounds, what level of education they have, where they received it, and even where they are from. I attend Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan. Some of the instructors are from across the country with a wide background, but most have received their Doctoral degrees, or are in the process of completing. To teach at a bachelor degree level for a university, you will need at least a master's degree, but often even higher is preferred. 

You also need to possess certain finesse with students. I have been witness to a few guest lectures by potential new instructors. School administrators watch them in action, and we as students give input after they have left the room. There has been a variety, from people who are shaking in their shoes and sweating profusely, to those who are so passionate they are practically shouting points to us. Universities look for a person who can adapt their lectures and know their material inside and out. They look for someone who is going to come across as highly intelligent and can demand respect of students.

Dress the role of a teacher. If you believe you are going to show up wearing jeans and a T-shirt like the students, forget about respect. If you are in a position of authority your clothing choices need to reflect that. Near the end of the semester it around finals week, it could be more appropriate to wear crisp jeans with a tucked in button down shirt and dress shoes.

Whatever your dream is keep aiming to be the best. You could never aim too high, as one of my favorite professors I admire has always done. She came from a small town in another country. She has accepted many opportunities throughout her life, and she is very satisfied with her life. She said she only wishes one thing could have changed, she could have done more! She encouraged me to keep aiming high and don't forget her when I've achieved my dreams.