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Maximizing Your Summer: Boost Your Skills and Have Fun!

By: Samuel Oloche

Summer is here again! While it’s tempting to spend all your time soaking up the sun, traveling, hanging out with family and friends, or binge-watching your favourite shows, this break can be a golden opportunity to relax, recharge, and level up your skills! Let’s explore how to make your summer both enjoyable and productive.

 

  1. Setting Summer Goals

Before diving into activities, take some time to set clear, achievable goals for your summer. Ask yourself: What skills do I want to develop? What experiences would I like to gain? How can I prepare for the upcoming academic year? Write down 2-3 specific goals and break them into smaller, manageable tasks. This will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the summer.

 

  1. Explore Online Courses

The internet is bursting with free and affordable online courses on platforms like Coursera, and Udemy. Your institution email address may give you free access to other platforms like LinkedIn Learning. Whether you’re interested in learning to code, mastering a new language, or diving into business management, there’s something out there for you! These courses often come with certificates, adding some shine to your CV, and giving you a competitive advantage in the job market. If, however, you don’t have the financial resources, you can check out your local library or community centres for free workshops and courses.

 

  1. Internships and Volunteering

Gaining real-world experience is invaluable. Look for internships or volunteer for causes you care about. These experiences can provide practical skills, professional networking, and a deeper understanding of your field. Don’t forget to explore local opportunities in pubs, restaurants, coffee shops, or bakeries for part-time jobs to earn  money and develop skills!

 

  1. Develop Soft Skills

Closely related to developing practical skills is developing soft skills like communication, teamwork and problem-solving – skills that employers love. Engage in activities that require these skills, like joining a club, participating in team sports, or even working on group projects with friends. Remember, it’s okay to take part in activities just for fun, as they can still help you develop these valuable skills.

 

  1. Read, Read, Read!

Books are a fantastic way to expand your knowledge and improve your critical thinking. Dive into books related to your field of study or explore different genres to broaden your perspective. Need suggestions? Check out apps like Amazon Kindle, Google Play Books, Apple Books, and Libby for top picks in your area of interest. If buying books isn’t an option, your local library can be a great resource for free reading material.

 

  1. Pursue Diverse Interests

Summer is also a great time to explore hobbies and activities outside of your academic and career interests. Whether it’s painting, playing a musical instrument, cooking, or hiking, engaging in activities that you enjoy can be incredibly fulfilling. These pursuits can also enhance your creativity and provide a much-needed break from your routine. Look for local clubs or online communities where you can share your interests and find new inspiration.

 

  1. Time Management and Productivity

While summer offers more flexibility, it’s still important to manage your time effectively. Creating a loose schedule and setting aside specific times for learning, relaxing or social activities can help maintain some structure during your summer break!

 

  1. Self-Care and Mental Health

Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself! A healthy mind and body are crucial for effective learning and growth. Engage in activities that relax and rejuvenate you – like yoga, meditation, playing sports, or simply spending time with loved ones. It’s important to take time off to recharge without feeling guilty. Rest and relaxation are vital components of productivity and overall well-being.

 

Remember, summer is a time for both relaxation and growth. By balancing fun with productivity and choosing activities that suit your interests and goals, you’ll return to school feeling refreshed and ahead of the game. The key is to find what works best for you – there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to a productive summer. So, grab your sunglasses, your laptop, and maybe a book or two, and get ready to make this summer your best one yet!

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