Spring Break 2016 Bucket List: What Should You Add to Your List?

Are you ready for Spring Break yet? 

I know many of you have lots of tests or midterms to get through the week before you leave. As you make your final preparations for your Spring Break, do you have some things you want to accomplish during your week away? If you haven't thought about your "to do" list yet, check out our Spring Break Bucket List below. Which of these items do you need to mark off your list while you're gone on Spring Break?

Come see us in Career Services before you leave town if we can help you design some plans to get you on the right track to

• explore a new major, 
• look for a summer job or internship, 
• prepare for interviews for your first full-time job or 
• research graduate schools.

You can walk in to see us Monday through Friday for 10 Minute Walk-In Advising from 12 - 3pm, or call 540-231-6241 to make an appointment with a career advisor.

Let us help you launch your career plans! Now see how many of these you can check off during your Spring Break! Can you do all 26?

Utilize Your Spring Break

If you are not spending your spring break tanning on the beach, you can use this time to dive straight into getting ahead on your job searching. From the comfort of your bed, you can be incredibly productive. Spend your break wisely by following a few of the following suggestions:

· Build and polish your LinkedIn profile: use this time to update all your information, join relevant groups, and network with alumni in a field of your interest. Make sure you have a professional headshot!

· Schedule an informational interview: you can use this time to determine what job would be best for you. Arrange to meet with a professional in your field to gain valuable insight by having questions prepared. Ask them what a typical day on the job is like, what their work environment is like, and about the path they took to get there.

· Try shadowing a professional: contact a professional in your field and request to shadow them for a day. You will be able to see what a day in their shoes is like and if you would enjoy the work they do. It is important to contact them ahead of time to work into their schedule.

· Start researching: while you’re relaxing at home, this is a great time to start compiling research on prospective employers. Create a comprehensive list for companies or employment opportunities that you are considering applying to; include application deadlines, application requirements, salaries, and even a pros and cons list.

· Go over your resume: check to see when the last time your resume has been updated. Ask several different people who don’t know you that well to glance over your resume. It’s important to keep your resume continuously updated and that each version is tailored for every position you apply for.