Congratulations, you made it to the summer! I hope during your first year you were able to adjust well in your environment, learn to navigate through some of your resources, and make new friends! As you are off to enjoy your summer spending time with families and friends, working, interning, traveling, and creating new experiences, we would like for you to make sure you are making the most of your summer break. Take a look at these 5 things you can do to make sure you are spending your time wisely and preparing for your first semester as a Sophomore.
- Reflect
Make sure you reflect on your first year at Duke. What did you learn about yourself? Who are you becoming? What were some of your best and worst memories throughout the academic year and how can they play a role as you think about future decision making?
Taking the time to reflect will give you a chance to acknowledge what you’ve accomplished and learned about yourself, but also provide you with the tools needed to make intentional decisions as you embrace your next experience.
- Connect
Take the time to connect with individuals you interact with throughout your summer. Share your story, learn about who they are and what they do, as this is a great way for you to continue exploring different roles and industries. You still have access to your Duke alum network during summer break, so make sure to utilize the Duke Alumni Directory and LinkedIn to research and connect with alums!
- Set Goals
After you have had a chance to reflect, set clear and achievable goals for yourself this summer. Doing so will make it easier for you to navigate what you would like to accomplish. It is summer break, so the goals do not have to be difficult, however you do want to make sure you have something interesting to share when asked, “what did you do over the summer?”
- Be Intentional
No matter what you decide to do this summer, take time to think about what you would like to accomplish and strategize how you would like to accomplish it. Think about the skills you would like to obtain or improve, people you would like to connect with, projects you would like to complete, or places you would like to visit. Having an idea of what you would like to do will set the ball in motion for you to accomplish your goals and be intentional about your decision-making process.
- Use Your Resources
Although you may be away this summer some of your campus resources will still be available to you. Inquire about some of the resources you use throughout the semester to see if they will be able to support you virtually. For example, the Career Center will be open throughout the summer! If you need assistance from a career advisor we will be happy to meet with you virtually, just schedule an appointment in Handshake!
