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Pack some progress into summer break

January 20, 2008 @ 07:28 PM

Sure, you could go back home and veg with your high school friends this summer -- after all, it won't be long before you have to enter the real world and summer will just be three hot months that you still have to go to work.

But for those of you who want to pack as much progress as you can into your summer break, here are some tips for using your time productively:

Study abroad: Many study abroad programs offer credit hours required toward your degree, and your time overseas can look good on a resume. This also might be the only time in your life that you can spare a few months to experience a new culture and maybe pick up a new language or two.

Learn about the Marshall-affiliated opportunities by attending the Spring Study Abroad Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 19, in the Marshall Student Center lobby.

Internship: Most degree programs require at least one internship, but whether it's mandatory or not, it's just a good idea to get exposure to and experience with your chosen area of study. If it's early in your college career, an internship might help you decide whether you've chosen the right major. If you're a junior or beyond, an internship will give you some added confidence when you enter the workforce after graduation -- and the experience just might help you land a better first job.

Pay a visit to the Marshall Career Services Center to learn about internship opportunities. You can call Career Services at (304) 696-2370. You can also check with your academic adviser for advice on finding an internship.

Summer classes: Marshall offers dozens of classes each summer, which can help you graduate in the traditional four years. Plus, you might find that you like the more laid-back atmosphere of campus in the summertime.

The first summer session begins Monday, May 12. Advance registration for currently enrolled students is Monday, March 31-Friday, April 4; advance registration for all admitted or re-admitted students opens on Monday, April 7.

Volunteer: Why not use the summer to refresh your brain and your soul? Marshall offers several service-oriented Greek clubs and organizations that could hook you up with a local summer project or a mission trip.

Plus, you can choose a volunteer project that fits into your major field of study for a double-bonus of career experience and feel-good service.

Check with Marshall's Student Activity Programming Board, or turn to our list of campus organizations for some ideas.

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