By Katie Southon, SCS Advising Leader:
Winter break is coming: a blissful four weeks of time to relax, recharge and reset. It’s also the perfect time to catch up on things that often get pushed aside when assignment deadlines and exam dates loom. Here’s four things you can do over break to set yourself up for success in 2022.
1. Apply for summer internships/research
Take time over winter break to get ahead for next summer by researching and applying for open positions. Don’t know where to start? Handshake and SCS Career Services are great places to look. You can follow SCS Career Services on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
Many summer internships and research experiences have deadlines in early January and February. Don’t forget to reach out to professors or advisors before break if you intend on having them write you a recommendation letter with an early deadline.
2. Work on your resume
Did you take on a leadership position, gain a new skill, or earn an award this semester? These are all great things to add to your resume and winter break is the perfect time to polish it. SCS Career Services has writing tips to help you get started and examples can be found here for both chemistry and chemical engineering majors.
3. Prepare for classes in the spring
It’s been over a month since course registration opened. Have your plans changed? Need Monday afternoons free for work? It’s not too late to switch sections, add, or drop a class. Want to meet with your advisor? Schedule an appointment if you’re unsure of classes or need any questions answered.
Now is also a great time to get a head start on buying class materials that are in high demand. You won’t have to stress that your iclicker or laboratory notebook will be backordered if it’s shipped to you before the semester even starts!
4. Get some much needed rest
It’s been a busy and demanding semester! Take some time off to decompress and get ready to head into next semester strong! McKinley Health Center has great resources for stress management and mental health. Once you’re at home, take time to learn a new hobby, read a book or watch a movie, and enjoy your break!