Summer is here, and if you didn’t land an internship or job for Summer 2025, you’re not alone.
The good news? There are many ways to make the most of your time. From free certifications to virtual experiences, there are many opportunities to gain skills that will help boost your resume before the fall semester. Explore some free resources below that can help you stay competitive and career-ready.
Online Learning sites
Take advantage of free online learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, HubSpot Academy, Google Digital Garage, and Grow with Google. These sites offer a wide range of courses to help you build skills in areas like data analysis, project management, communication, marketing, finance, and more for free.
Micro-Internships
Complete short virtual job simulations with Forage from companies like JP Morgan, Accenture, HPE (just to name a few) and gain experience that you can list on your resume.
Parker Dewey is another option for students to gain professional experience and get paid while doing so.
Build Skills that You Can Use Later
Consider spending a few hours each week sharpening your tools:
- Microsoft Excel – learn pivot tables, basic formulas, sorting and filtering data.
- Analytics – Get familiar with Tableau, Power BI, Google Analytics, or Python for business.
- Design – Try Canva to create marketing materials or build a personal brand online.
- Artificial Intelligence – Learn how to responsibly and effectively use tools like ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas, write content, and enhance workflows.
- Public Speaking – try Toastmasters or record and practice elevator pitches
Connect and learn from others
Set a goal to reach out to one new person in your industry of interest each week. Informational interviews are a great way to learn about different roles, companies, and career paths, and can help you build your professional network along the way.
Make a game plan for Fall
Summer is the perfect time to relax, recharge, reflect and prepare for what’s next. You can take some time to map out goals for the upcoming semester:
- Update your LinkedIn and resume with any new skills, certifications or experiences from the summer.
- Plan to attend career fairs, info sessions, and networking events early in the semester.
- Research companies you’re interested in and keep an eye on internship or job deadlines; roles recruit early in the fall & you can find Fall 2025 internships now.
- Join or take on a leadership role in a student organization to keep building skills, connections, and friends
- Don’t forget about study abroad use the summer to research programs, talk to your advisor, and start the application process.
Use the summer to learn, grow, and create your own story.
Want help talking through your summer goals or updating your resume with these experiences? Schedule an appointment with your career center today.
