8 Smart (and Still Fun) Ways to Spend Your Summer Break
Summer break: no early classes, no late-night cramming, and yes, lots of sleeping in and sun. But once the novelty of doing absolutely nothing wears off (and it will), it’s worth asking: How can I use this time to set myself up for success next semester—and beyond?
Here’s the thing: Rest is necessary. But summer break also gives you something precious—time—that you won’t always have this freely again. Whether you’re trying to figure out your major, land a future internship, or just level up as a human, here are eight ways to make your summer both productive and enjoyable.
1. Reflect, Reset, & Realign
Before diving into something new, take a minute to reflect on the last semester. What worked? What didn’t? Did your classes energize or drain you? Were you actually interested in your major—or just surviving it?
Journaling, voice-noting your thoughts, or even chatting with a friend or mentor can help you get clarity. Then, use what you’ve learned to set some goals for next semester—academic, personal, or professional.
Tool tip: Use apps like Notion or digital planners to organize your life like a pro.
2. Refresh Your Resume & LinkedIn (Yes, Really)
Even if you’re not actively job hunting, summer is a prime time to clean up your resume and make your LinkedIn not just exist, but shine. Add new experiences (yes, that student org counts), refine your summary, and maybe even snag a professional-looking headshot.
And while you’re at it, review your digital footprint. Gen Z lives online, so make sure your social presence aligns with the professional image you’re building.
3. Land (or Prep for) an Internship
Summer internships are golden. They give you real-world experience, help you figure out what you actually like, and make your resume pop. But even if you didn’t land one this time, use the summer to prepare:
- Practice interview questions
- Build a mini portfolio or personal website
- Research companies you’d love to intern at next year
Pro tip: Many fall internships open in late summer—start bookmarking now.
4. Do a “Mini-Internship” by Job Shadowing or Volunteering
Can’t find a formal internship? Create your own experience. Reach out to local businesses or professionals in your area and ask if you can shadow them for a day or week. You’ll learn more in one afternoon with a real-world mentor than in 10 hours of scrolling TikTok (though we love a good life hack video too).
Volunteering is also a great way to gain soft skills, build your network, and give back. Look for orgs that align with causes you care about.
5. Apply for Scholarships & Side Hustle Funds
Still paying tuition in vibes and tears? Summer’s a great time to apply for scholarships, fellowships, and even creator grants or side hustle funding. There are apps and sites (like Scholly, Bold.org, or niche TikToks) that make this way easier than it used to be.
Set a goal to apply to one or two each week. Future You (and your bank account) will thank you.
6. Take a Fun or Future-Focused Class
Hear us out: a summer class doesn't have to feel like school. It can be the thing you want to learn—like video editing, coding, or personal finance. Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Skillshare have courses that fit around your schedule.
Even one or two hours a week can teach you something new or give you a career edge.
7. Build Your Personal Brand
You're more than your major. Start a blog, TikTok channel, Substack, or podcast on something you're passionate about—whether it’s anime analysis, digital art, sustainability, or studying productivity.
This isn’t just for clout. It shows creativity, consistency, and communication skills—traits employers and audiences value.
8. Actually. Take. A. Break.
No, seriously. You deserve to rest. Whether it’s beach days, sleeping in, hiking trips, or losing yourself in a book, let your brain breathe.
Burnout culture is out. Balance is in.
Final Thoughts: Rest + Growth = The Move
Summer break isn’t about hustling 24/7—but it also doesn’t have to be a productivity black hole. Even doing one or two things on this list can give you an edge, help you feel more confident going into the fall, and make your summer feel genuinely rewarding.
And hey, if you’re even thinking about your future during summer break? You’re already ahead of the game.