Maximise your Summer: tips to boost your skills and career prospects

Tracey Dall

Monday 15 July 2024

In this post, we offer advice to boost your skills and career prospects over the summer months.

Summer is finally here! While it’s the perfect time to unwind and recharge before the next semester begins, it’s also an excellent opportunity to enhance your employability and career prospects.

Despite the occasional gloomy weather, there are plenty of productive and enjoyable ways to make the most of your summer. Many students often regret not gaining enough experience or achieving more during their time at university and over the summer. Personal development is key, and engaging in new activities can help you:

• have fun and enjoy new experiences
• meet new people and make lasting friendships
• discover your strengths and passions
• challenge yourself and step out of your comfort zone
• develop new skills and improve existing ones.

If you have spare time this summer, deciding how to use it can be challenging. Start by setting clear goals and identifying what you want to achieve. Consider learning a new skill, such as a language, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, or volunteering. Create a list to keep track of your goals and ensure your activities align with them.

Regardless of your situation, here are some ways to make the most of your summer:

Access online tools and resources

Wherever you are, you have 24/7 access to valuable resources that can help you build your career. These include:

• practice psychometric and aptitude tests: prepare for employer recruitment tests
• CV and cover letter checker: get instant AI-generated feedback on your CV and cover letter, tailored for specific opportunities
• advice on working abroad: explore international opportunities and job seeking advice for over 45 countries and cities
• interview practice tools: improve your interview skills with practical exercises
• skills assessment tools: identify and develop key employability skills.

Visit our online tools and resources webpage for more information and take full advantage of these resources.

Apply for a part-time job

Part-time work not only provides extra cash but also helps you:

• develop essential skills like time management, communication, and teamwork
• build a professional network and make valuable connections
• enhance your personal and professional development.

If you’re staying in St Andrews over the summer, regularly check CareerConnect for part-time job opportunities. You can also find jobs on Indeed, Totaljobs and Reed. Don’t overlook local businesses that might not advertise online – visit them in person and ask if they are currently or will be hiring staff soon. Make sure you have a CV ready before you visit and take it along in case they ask.

Volunteer

Volunteering offers numerous benefits, including gaining insight into different sectors, developing new skills, and giving back to the community. It can also give you a competitive edge in the job market. For more advice, visit the career sector page on charity and voluntary work.

Consider these options:

• local community projects: engage in initiatives that support your community
• non-profit organisations: gain experience in a sector you’re passionate about
• university-related volunteering: support university events and programmes.

Work shadow

Work shadowing involves observing a professional and undertaking basic duties for a short period, usually unpaid. It helps you understand a job, sector, or employer better. Some large employers, especially in finance and law, offer structured taster days for students. To find opportunities:

• check employer websites: Look for information on work shadowing programs or taster days
• reach out directly: Contact professionals or companies that interest you and inquire about shadowing possibilities.

Network

Networking is crucial for making useful contacts and enhancing your career prospects. Here are several ways to network effectively:

• contact employers and organisations: ask about work experience opportunities over the next few months. Refer to our advice on making speculative applications for guidance
• sign into SaintConnect: join the University’s global online community to connect with alumni and professionals
• join the St Andrews University Alumni group: network with graduates and seek mentorship or career advice.

Update your CV

An up-to-date CV is essential for marketing yourself and securing job interviews. The Careers Centre offers extensive advice on writing CVs and provides examples. Utilise CareerSet for immediate, AI-generated feedback on your CV. Additionally, you can book an appointment with a CV Adviser via CareerConnect for personalised feedback.

Tips for an effective CV include:

• highlight recent experiences: include any recent work, volunteering, or educational experiences
• tailor your CV: customise your CV for different job applications to highlight relevant skills and experiences
• proofread: ensure there are no errors or inconsistencies in your CV.

Final thoughts …

Don’t worry if you’re not spending the summer on a career-related work placement. There are plenty of other valuable opportunities to explore. Visit the Careers Centre when you return, and we’ll help you highlight your summer experiences on your CV. Prospects also offers excellent advice on making the most of your summer break.

The Careers Centre is open all year, and you can book appointments with our Careers Advisers or CV Advisers. Whatever you choose to do this summer, make sure to relax and enjoy yourself. The Careers Team wishes you all the best and looks forward to welcoming you back next semester!