Make use of the break between semesters to plan for and start your summer job search.
1. Think about what you want to be doing in the summer of 2010–
Will you look for a position related to your major? to your career goals?
Will you look for a position in the Harrisburg area? in your home area? in some other location?
Will you be able to work full-time? How many weeks? Are you planning any summer courses that may conflict with work availability?
2. Hone in on some companies that might hire college students for summer work / internships. Research their company web sites to gain a better understanding of their operations and to check their link for Employment or Career information. Look especially for application procedures and deadlines.
3. Update (or create) your resume to reflect new information, like your fall semester coursework, new GPA, new skills gained, internship completed etc.
4. Develop a framework for your cover letter that you can adapt to the different opportunities you may apply to.
5. Update your references list to reflect any change in contact information or to add new ones.
6. Apply for or update your Nittany Lion Career Network account, so you have access to all positions being posted on our board for Penn State students and alumni. Begin checking the site weekly, so as not to miss new opportunities as they are posted.
7. Review other web sites (for example, those related to your major, profession, or location) to look for additional leads you may want to follow-up.
8. Network with family and friends to let them know what you hope to be doing this summer, and follow through with any referrals or leads they give you.
With these very basic steps, you can be ready to learn about and apply for positions this summer, or even find those employers that may still be looking for spring semester interns.
Remember, luck (in finding positions) is sometimes just a case of preparation meeting opportunity.