You've had a fantastic first year at University; you have learnt how to live independently and you can do what you want, when you want and where you want - the joys of student life! But the summer holiday is here, and what does that mean? "Come downstairs and do the washing up!" "Clean your bedroom now, you aren't at University anymore!", "Stop arguing with your sister!" Is this all sounding familiar? Yes, that is right. Welcome back home to where you are deprived of your independent student lifestyle and your parents rule the roost.
The transition can be strange at first, but the key is to keep BUSY. To prevent you from slipping into the 'Uni blues' mode where you waste your term break wishing you were back at Uni, The Graduate Recruitment Bureau gives some top tips to help you make the most out of your holiday:
Find a job
After blowing your student loan on all sorts of student activities, your bank account may be looking a bit sad. Take advantage of the time you have at home and earn a bit of extra money. If you are looking for a flexible job, try student catering as you can pick what hours you work and you can earn good money. Waitressing or bartending are also standard student jobs too (and you get tipped which is always a bonus).
Friends from home
You haven't seen your friends from home for nearly 3 months, so organise to see them and have a catch up. Don't become Uni obsessed and constantly talk about the new friends you've made as it just comes across as arrogant. Your friends from home are the ones you have known the longest so don't push them away. By all means, exchange stories about Uni but don't talk about it 24/7.
Family time
Don't just spend the holiday with your friends; make some time for family too. But when you do, try to avoid any sort of family quarrelling! Make the most of being at home with your loved ones and enjoy the time you have together. Going to University is one of the most important stages in your life which your family can't share with you, so make an effort to avoid making them feel out of touch of what you are getting up to. You will also want to take advantage of mum's home cooking before having to resort back to student budget food...
Work experience
Throughout your University years, try and get as much work experience as you can. Pad your CV out before completing your degree, as it will make the graduate job hunt a lot easier. It will also give you more of an idea on what career path you want to take. Even if the work experience is completely different to your degree, it doesn't matter. It's work experience. So take advantage of this time where you can afford to dip in and out of different work sectors, as it is all part of learning about the work environment.
Targets for the new term
Set yourself targets for the new year and take on new hobbies. Are there any societies you want to join? Are there any temp jobs going at your student union or in your student city? Considering joining the gym? Use the break to relax and enjoy yourself, but be productive too so you can start the new term with clear goals and knowing of all the opportunities available to you. Take advantage of all the University societies and careers fairs going on - it's a great way to meet new people and will also look great on a CV.
