Whether you're a fresher-to-be or in between years, making the most of summer can make a big difference to your time at uni.
You’ll often have specific work to complete over the summer, whether it’s part of a long-term assignment or just background reading.
The best thing you can do is to spread your work out effectively. In the first weeks of freedom, it’s tough to motivate yourself to get back to work – but last-minute cramming is stressful and ineffective.
Draw up a plan and stick to it. You don’t have to plot out how many hours you’ll work every day, but set yourself short deadlines. This will make the work seem less mountainous, so you’ll find it easier to get started, and will let you make sure you’re on the right track.
The long summer break is a great time to make a bit of cash. Even if you don’t work during term time, a summer job can help you to fill your pockets for the years ahead (and looks great on a CV
Remember that seasonal work can be very different from the usual part-time job in a bar or a shop. Anything touristy is a good bet, as most tourist hotspots need extra staff in the summer months.
The clink of change isn’t the only reason to spend your summer at work. An internship or work experience placement can boost your employment prospects. For some jobs, like journalism or politics, you might find it’s almost unavoidable.
Of course, you can’t live just to work. You probably don’t need to be told how to enjoy yourself once the pressure’s off, but remember that uni offers new opportunities for your leisure time, too.
Sports and social societies often organise summer events that might normally be more than your wallet can handle. So if there’s something you’ve always wanted to try – whether it’s hang-gliding, voluntary work or performing at the Edinburgh Fringe – don’t miss the chance to make it happen.
What’s the best way you’ve ever spent a summer? Share your thoughts in the comments box below.
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