Wake on Break
You earned this! Winter break is your golden opportunity to focus on rest, enjoyment, and spending time with loved ones. Once you’re feeling recharged, this is also the perfect time to snag a small head start on your career goals.
If you find yourself with extra time, here are some options to maximize your productivity without sacrificing your holiday spirit.
1. Learn & Develop New Skills
Focus on high-value courses and certifications that employers recognize.
| Platform | Course/Certification Examples |
| LinkedIn Learning | Examples include: Excel Essential Training, Project Management Foundations, Communicating Across Cultures |
| Coursera | Examples include: Google Data Analytics, Python, Project Management, Digital Marketing |
2. Connect & Build Your Network
Use your time off to conduct outreach and build meaningful connections.
| Opportunity | Platform Example |
| Informational Interviews | Learn how to conduct an Informational Interview including delivering your professional introduction and selecting questions to ask. |
| Alumni Outreach | Connect with alumni on LinkedIn. Use this sample message to create your own. |
3. Gain Experience
Acquire practical, real-world experience without committing to a full internship.
| Platform | Employer / Project Examples |
| Forage | Examples include: JPMorgan Chase Investment Banking Simulation, BCG Strategy Consulting Simulation, Citi Risk & Analytics Virtual Experience |
| Parker Dewey | Examples include: Social Media Audit, Market Research Analysis, Data Entry and Clean-Up |
4. Meet with a Career Coach
Take advantage of professional advice before or after the university closure for winter break.
- Action: Schedule an appointment using Handshake to discuss resumes, interviews, or career planning.
- Availability: The university is closed from December 22 through January 4. Coaches are available to meet before December 22 and starting on Monday, January 5.