Thanks to Amy, one of our Careers Service Assistants, for this.
Christmas is a great time of year for filling up on mince pies, catching up with friends and family and perhaps sledging in the snow. But often, after the final turkey sandwich has been eaten, you’re left lying on the sofa waiting out the time from Boxing Day to New Year’s Eve. If you can’t bear to watch another re-run of Home Alone, it may be worth turning your attention to the (near) future… 
- Summer opportunities
Although deadlines for some summer internships in bigger companies have passed many opportunities will still be open – and there will be plenty still to come. Take your time lying on the sofa with the remains of pigs in blankets, and read our information on looking for internships and work experience.
- Sales!Smart clothes look good at job interviews and when meeting employers, but can be expensive. The Boxing Day sales are the perfect occasion to buy yourself some interview attire at a more reasonable price. Also, January is a great month to check out your nearest charity shop as people are likely to donate unwanted Christmas presents or use that time for a post-Christmas clear out.
- Another year over
Review your achievements and experience and update your CV and your LinkedIn profile. Experience doesn’t need to be out of the ordinary; for example, part-time jobs, academic projects or voluntary work can evidence valuable transferable skills.
- Reflection
The festive break is a period of new beginnings and resolutions and an ideal time for reflection. So, why not take a look at our Career Assessment exercises which serve as a guide for thinking usefully about your strengths and preferences. Find them in MyCareerHub.
So, hopefully these suggestions will help you make the most of your festive break – you might be glad you did once you’re back into the swing of Semester 2.
Best wishes and a Merry Christmas from the Careers Service.
Our last day of opening before the festive break will be Friday 21st December. The Careers Service will be closed for the Winter vacation from Monday 24th December to Friday 4th January and will re-open on Monday 7th January 2019. We look forward to seeing you!
(Image copyright UoE Careers Service)
(Image copyright UoE Careers Service)
