Qixuan shares his suggestions on how spend the summer months in Years 1 and 2 – from work experience to academic credit, volunteering and travel!
The last SPS lecture of your first year wraps up, and the long, blissful stretch of summer lies ahead. It’s a time filled with endless possibilities, but what to do with it? This blog hopes to share some insights and ideas that might help you make the most of these precious months. From travel adventures to career-boosting internships, there’s something here for everyone. So, let’s dive in and make every summer count!
Year 1: Exploring and Volunteering
Travelling
Your first summer is the perfect time to unleash your wanderlust. Whether it’s backpacking across Europe, exploring exotic locales, or simply taking a road trip with friends, travelling is a fantastic way to unwind and broaden your horizons. For SPS students, this can be a unique opportunity to see firsthand the cultures, political systems, and social structures you’ve been studying. If you’re an international student, remember to plan ahead—check visa requirements and organise your itinerary early. The world is waiting, so go out and explore!
Volunteering
Alternatively, volunteering is a win-win: you gain valuable experience while making a positive impact. Volunteering in local charity shops or NGOs can provide practical insights into social issues and policy-making processes, giving you a deeper understanding of your field of study. Not to mention, it’s a great way to take that first step for your resume, meet new people, and give back to the community. Plus, it’s fulfilling and can open doors to new opportunities down the line.
Student-Led, Individually-Created Courses (SLICC)
Last but not least, SLICC is a unique opportunity provided by the university as a reflective learning and assessment framework for students to gain academic credit for experiential learning. Summer SLICCs, in particular, are available to all first- and second-year undergraduate students to support and recognise your summer activities. Therefore, if you are embarking on an exciting journey, whether it’s a research project or an internship, you may want to get recognised along the way. This fantastic opportunity allows you to take ownership and co-create your own learning outcomes and journey. Provided that you meet the eligibility requirements for SLICC and your degree program allows it, you will gain 20 academic credits for the experience and learning you undertake. These credits will be displayed on your transcript/HEAR alongside your other course grades. Additionally, they can be substituted for any other non-core credit at SCQF Level 8 where your degree program permits.
You can find further information on SLICCs on the University of Edinburgh website.
Year 2: Internships and Industry Insights
Industry-Specific Internships
By your second year, it’s time to start thinking about your interests. What’s the best way to do that? Experience! Many companies and organizations offer summer insight programs and work experience opportunities that provide a peek into the industry. For SPS students, this could include internships with government agencies, think tanks, research institutions, consulting firms, or law firms, depending on your growing interests. Some opportunities may specifically target first and second-year students; however, (un)surprisingly, they can still be very competitive—so apply early and widely. These experiences can help you determine if a particular career path is right for you and give you a leg up when applying for jobs later on.
Campus Internships
Alternatively, if you hope to stay in Edinburgh and want to do something meaningful, the Employ.Ed on Campus internship program is an excellent starting point. Applications are usually due around early April, so start preparing early. Aim to apply for no more than three positions to ensure comprehensive preparation. These internships offer invaluable experience and a chance to build connections within the university at large, extending even beyond SPS.
Final Remarks
Never Too Early: Start planning early. Whether it’s travel arrangements, internship applications, or job hunting, early preparation (as early as December or January each year) always pays off. Avoid procrastination to seize every opportunity.
Stay Flexible: Plans can change, and that’s okay. Stay flexible and open to new experiences. Sometimes the best opportunities are the unexpected ones (and can come late).
Network, Network, Network: Building a network is invaluable. Whether through volunteering, internships, or social events, making connections can open doors to insights and opportunities you might not find otherwise.
Summers during university are a unique and invaluable time to explore, grow, and lay the groundwork for your future. Embrace the possibilities, stay open to new experiences, and make every summer count. They are your chance to step outside the academic bubble and dive into experiences that shape your personal and professional life.
This guide is just the starting point. Your journey will be uniquely yours, filled with adventures and lessons that can’t be captured in any list. Most importantly, above all, remember to prioritise taking a break. Use this time to recharge, reflect, and enjoy the freedom that summer offers. Balancing productivity with relaxation is always key to maintaining your well-being and enthusiasm for what’s ahead!
