It may seem early, but if you are wondering when to start applying for summer internships, now is the time to start! I am here to help you navigate the search and get an internship you are truly excited about!

When to Start Applying for Summer Internships

January

The first thing I recommend is identifying when the campus Career Fair will be held and get it on your calendar (February is a popular month). Spend about 30 minutes a week on Google and Indeed identifying opportunities and forming a list of maybe 5-10 companies you’d ideally like to work for and learn from next summer. Knowledge is power! If you want to make an informed decision when accepting an internship offer, you must be knowledgeable about the job market. Putting in the time to research and become familiar with what internships are available and what employers expect. The compensation range for interns in your field and geographic area is important! Last year I wrote a post with many tips about what makes a good internship.

Another important step to complete in January is writing (or revising) your resume. If you have never written a resume, I suggest getting a rough draft on paper and then working with a resume expert to help you stand out in a crowded market. Having a second set of eyes on your document will help ensure you have a tailored resume that best represents your knowledge and skills on paper. So, if you are wondering when to start applying for summer internships, the answer is January or even during the fall semester!

February

February is the month to get serious if you want to get a summer internship! Go to the career fair and try to talk to as many companies that made your list as possible and get business cards so you can follow up a couple of days later. Spend about 15 minutes a week online looking at a summer job and internship opportunities.

As you apply for internships, make sure you are writing a tailored cover letter for each opportunity. A generic cover letter submitted to every opportunity will be noticed and not appreciated by hiring managers. Ensure you use keywords and highlight skills, knowledge, and experience relevant to the job. Get help tailoring your resume and cover letter to ensure you land the interview and get an internship you are truly excited about!

March

During March, keep up the 15 minutes per week of looking at opportunities online and submitting applications to get an internship. Make one more follow-up attempt with representatives you spoke with at the career fair using the info on their business cards if you had a good lead that has not materialized into an opportunity.

While you continue your search and internship applications, document all the jobs and internships you apply for. Save each position description (to help you prepare for interviews) and keep a spreadsheet of the job titles, company names, application deadlines, and any notes you have from the application. Check your spreadsheet periodically and follow up with companies regarding the status of your application if two weeks have passed since the deadline.

April

Interviews for summer internships will usually happen in late March or during April. April’s main focus will be preparing for the interview by reviewing position descriptions that you wisely saved when you applied! Look at lists of common interview questions and brainstorm other questions you expect to be asked. Glassdoor is a great resource for this! The best preparation for interviews includes specific examples of when you demonstrated skills and knowledge related to the positions you’ll be interviewing. It is important that you can provide specific examples and stories during your conversations and interviews with hiring managers. Interviewing can be intimidating; however, if you start early and get proper help preparing, you’ll feel confident and comfortable marketing yourself to the hiring manager!

May

Ideally, a summer opportunity will be lined up on or around the first of May. Tasks that will be important this month will be communicating with the hiring manager regarding the start date and orientation/training. Being proactive by keeping the lines of communication open demonstrates enthusiasm, excitement, and professionalism. Some companies may also request a copy of your transcript and pre-employment paperwork. May is a great time to complete these requirements ensuring you are ready to work on the first day of the internship!

How I Can Help You Get an Internship

Gone are the days of a college degree being the ticket to a good job after graduation. Employers value and expect candidates to have industry-relevant work experience during college. I help students navigate the career planning and job search process to ensure they are set up for success after graduation. Learn more about my services and former client successes!

When to Start Applying for Summer Internships
Loren Kelly

Writing a Resume without Work Experience
Loren Kelly

You might wonder, “What is the right career for me?” and jump online to find a free career test. Career aptitude tests have been popular for years; however, are career tests for college students still relevant in 2022? The pandemic changed so much. And, can a short career quiz really determine what will bring you lasting fulfillment? Here’s what you need to know.

I will use a career quiz, personality career test, or career aptitude test from time to time with student clients to help with career exposure and validation. The mistake most young people make, however, is relying too heavily on these career quiz results. The bottom line, career tests for college students can be helpful; however, they are only a small part of the career planning process. To feel confident about a career decision, a student needs a lot more information and experience than what a career quiz will provide.

The Best Free Career Tests for College Students

While keeping in mind that personality career tests are career aptitude tests are only a small part of the career planning process, I am happy to share three of my favorite career tests for college students. And, best of all, the resources on this list are FREE!

My Next Move

The My Next Move site has an excellent interest profiler that is free, easy to use, and can be completed in less than 20 minutes. My favorite part about this tool is that the career information comes directly from the U.S. Department of Labor! That means the demand and average wage are up-to-date and from a dependable source.

This site uses Holland’s code to help users identify their strengths and connect those career paths. One can mix up the code combinations to find related career paths. Once you’ve explored careers, you can also see colleges and trade schools that offer career training in those relevant paths. This career quiz is a great resource for people of all ages!

Truity

Truity has several great assessments on its site, but I find the Myers-Briggs style assessment called the TypeFinder one of the most beneficial career tests for college students. I like that this assessment gives you your top three personality scores, and you can choose which one fits you best. Let’s face it, while a computer-generated career quiz can get pretty close to nailing our true traits; they can be slightly off sometimes!

Should you take the TypeFinder career aptitude test, I recommend exploring each of your top three personality matches. You will likely be able to relate with all of them, and the career lists will be helpful!

16 Personalities

If you are looking for a personality career test, 16 Personalities can’t be overlooked! What I like about this career test for college students is the well-rounded report at the end. Not only do you get career information, but you also get information on personal relationships, your skillset, and conflict management! I like to use this career quiz when working with groups of students as it helps facilitate great discussion!

How to Use Results from Career Tests for College Students

Career quiz results are not beneficial if read once and tossed to the side. As you engage in career planning activities, use the information from the career personality test to formulate questions, assess career and job opportunities, and prepare yourself for interviews!

If you are wondering, “What career is right for me?” and want to use the career test results to narrow down your career options, I highly recommend debriefing your results with a professional. While a career test can be helpful, you’ll find much more value if you have a trained professional to help you evaluate the information and assist you with career planning. I offer free consultations and would be happy to discuss your career quiz results! Schedule your free consultation now!

How to Find a Fulfilling Career: Download my FREE GUIDE!

Are Career Tests for College Students Still Relevant in 2022?
Loren Kelly

If you have landed here, you have probably heard yourself say, “I don’t know what to do for a career!” I wish I had an immediate answer for you. While I can’t make it quite that easy and effortless, I can significantly reduce the anxiety, fear, and (let’s be honest) agony that comes with this big life decision. How do I do it? I begin by helping individuals build a list of criteria with which to measure career opportunities. From there, when students ask themselves, “Are these the best careers for me?” they can answer their own question by weighing the career opportunity against their personal criteria.

Resources to Help When You’re Thinking…
“I Don’t Know What to Do for a Career!”

That’s right; I’m sharing my secrets! Below are some of my favorite tools and exercises that help people evaluate their experiences and build a list of criteria with which to measure career options. Stop saying, “I don’t konw what to do for a career!” and start working through some of these exercises and building your career criteria!

Work Values

To experience lasting, career happiness, you need to be able to articulate what you value in your work and your work environment. I’m not talking job duties here, but characteristics of the work. Do you thrive on structure, or do you need variety? Are autonomy and freedom important to you, or do you want clear expectations and defined instructions? The website 123test.com has an excellent, free Work Values and Motivation resource to help you identify your top work values.

Strengths and Skills

This step is one of my favorites. Start by writing a list of your top skills and strengths (don’t skip this step!). Think about the jobs you’ve held, volunteer experiences, clubs, and organizations, etc. What skills and strengths did you develop or demonstrate in those situations?

Only after you have made your list, reach out to three people who know you well but are not family members or best friends. Ideally, these three people will have interacted with you in different capacities. A supervisor, former colleague, community member, mentor, or instructor are all great people to utilize for this exercise. Choose three people who will give you honest, detailed feedback. Then, ask them these two, simple questions:

What are my greatest strengths?

Describe a time you witnessed me at my best.

I suggest sending these in an email or text message to give the people time to think about them rather than just rattling off the first responses that come to mind. Once you have your answers, compare your list to the responses of the other people. Then, create a list of your most valuable skills and strengths that you want to see utilized in your work life. I promise this exercise will be a powerful one in helping you develop criteria to determine the best fit careers for you!

Personality and Career Fit

I am listing this resource last because we do not want the information from this step to influence the above two steps. Once you have identified your work values and your top skills and strengths, I want you to go online and take a personality assessment with a career component. Three popular tools you can use are My Next Move, Truity, or 16 Personalities. All three of these assessments will provide a “Best Careers for Me” section. While this list won’t be conclusive, the tool will give you additional criteria to consider based on your personality and then a list of best-fit careers you can consider.

Using Criteria to Determine Best Career Fit

Finally, after you have your criteria built out, you need to determine how well different career options fit your criteria. How present will your work values be in that career field? Will your best strengths and skills be utilized? How will your personality and natural abilities shine? Use online sources and professionals in your network to help give you perspective if you are unsure when trying to answer these questions. The biggest tip is, don’t rush the process. Look for answers, ponder the information, and allow time for reflection.

What’s next?

“I don’t know what to do for a career.” This statement is the number one cry for help I hear from students. Anxiety, uncertainty, and fear flood their minds when they think about the daunting life decision of choosing a career path for themselves. Thousands of dollars, hundreds of papers and college exams, and years of their lives depend on them making the right choice. Who wouldn’t feel pressure! The good news, I can help. While the exercises above are powerful, they are even more helpful when you have someone working through the process with you and helping you identify trends and opportunities. Learn more about me and my coaching style! Book a no-pressure consultation today to learn more about the career coaching process!

Want help finding your perfect career?

As an experienced educator and career coach, I sit down with students and young professionals one-on-one and assist them as they articulate their goals and develop a plan to gain career-relevant experience! I guide students through the internship search, application, and interview process, teaching them life-long skills for career success!

Book a free consultation today!

How to Find a Fulfilling Career: Download my FREE GUIDE!

Download my favorite tools and exercises that help you evaluate your experiences and build a list of criteria with which to measure career options.

I Don’t Know What to Do for a Career
Loren Kelly

Summer break is almost here and, it’s a matter of time before your teen is ready to get out of the house! How can you use this time in summer to help your high school student plan for the future? Start with researching summer programs for high school students! I’m sharing a few of my favorite ways to find summer programs for high school students that will give them great exposure to college and career options as well as help them build a resume for college, scholarship, and job applications!

Summer Programs for High School Students

1. University camps for high school students

Summer programs for high school students at local universities is first on my list! Attending a university summer camp is one of my favorite career planning activities for summer vacation because students are exposed to career paths and academics as well! Summer camps and programs at universities vary in length; however, most are one week-long and focus on specific career fields or areas of interest. For example, Wichita State University in Wichita, KS, hosts a variety of week-long engineering camps for students entering 4th through 12th grades. Similarly, the University of Alabama has various programs, including week-long camps in Forensic Science for high school and middle school students. Likewise, the University of California Los Angeles offers summer camps for students interested in digital filmmaking or game design, as well as many other career areas and interests!

University summer camps are often very hands-on and engaging for participants. These experiences also look great on scholarship and college admissions applications. Are you sold on summer camps as career planning activities for summer vacation? A quick search online will allow you and your student to quickly identify camps in your area or nationwide camps related to his/her interests.

2. National Parks Service Summer Programs for Youth

There are so many different summer programs for high school students available through the National Parks Service! It doesn’t matter if your teen has one week or two months, there are programs of all lengths and across a multitude of areas of interest! There is so much potential for a student to learn and grow through these experiences. And, after a long period of social isolation, what better environment to be in than the great outdoors! To learn more about their long and short-term programs, internships, volunteer experience, and more, visit their “Work with Us” page.

3. Take Dual-Enrollment classes at a local college

Great summer programs for high school students can be dual-enrollment courses at a local college! It is an added bonus if you have a community college nearby as these colleges often have existing agreements with local high schools and make dual-enrollment coursework very affordable (if not free in some states!). I am a big advocate for dual-enrollment coursework for high school students, and I have written an article about the Benefits of Dual Enrollment Classes to help parents and students understand what this means and to help determine if it is the right opportunity for them!

4. Find a volunteer experience

If your child already has a tentative plan for a future career field, why not encourage some volunteer experience this summer? Volunteering two or three afternoons per week can give your child a first-hand perspective on a career field. For example, if your student is interested in a career in the medical field, almost every hospital offers volunteer positions. Do you have a child that loves hands-on activities and building things? How about volunteering with the local Habitat for Humanity team? Not only are volunteer experiences great career planning activities for summer vacation, but they also look great on scholarship and college admission applications as well as a future resume! To find volunteer opportunities, start by entering your zip code on the search page provided by the Corporation for National and Community Service!

Additional resources for helping your child plan for the future!

I am passionate about helping students create a plan that empowers them to pursue the future with confidence! If you are in the midst of college and career planning conversations with your student, check out some of my additional resources:

1. Free College and Career Planning Guide – This five-step guide is designed to help parents and teenagers navigate the college and career planning process. Many people think the starting point of preparing for the future is choosing a college. In this guide, I introduce the idea of career planning first and then a more tailored college or training school search. Don’t miss this resource!
2. Motivating Your Child to Plan for the Future – Is your teen reluctant to begin the process? This free guide will help you ease into conversations with regard to the future. This doesn’t have to be a daunting process where you are tugging your child along fighting eye rolls and a lack of motivation. Ditch the frustration and make the process enjoyable!
3. College and Career Planning Coaching – Some students have huge amounts of anxiety about the future. Am I making the right decision? What career will be fulfilling for me? How can I find a major that I enjoy? If your student is struggling with these questions, I can help! My eight-week coaching package takes a student from uncertain and anxious to confident and excited!
4. Job/Internship Search Coaching – gone are the days of a college degree ensuring gainful employment following graduation. Employers want relevant work experience and successful internships to prove the graduate is ready for the workforce. I help students and recent graduates navigate the job search, prepare for interviews, and negotiate their compensation. Let’s get your student’s future career started on the best note!
5. Resume Help – Writing a resume is daunting. You have 10 seconds (or less) to showcase yourself on paper and capture the reader’s attention before they move on to the next document. It takes strategy and experience to really make your document stand out! This mini package will take your resume from common to exceptional!

If your child is beginning to plan for the future but struggling to identify a fulfilling path, I can help! I offer one-on-one college and career planning help as well as a free college and career planning guide for parents. In addition, you can set-up a free 30-minute chat to get your questions answered by choosing a convenient time in my online calendar! I look forward to supporting you and your child in this important time of growth. Let’s get your child on the path to confidence and long-term fulfillment. Message me today to get started or chat!

Let’s chat about your plans for the future!

Hello there! Thanks for visiting my site. My name is Loren, and I am a Career Coaching for Students! I am passionate about helping students identify a fulfilling career path and then executing the steps it takes (college included) to be successful. Let’s chat about your future in a no-strings-attached free consultation!

Summer Programs for High School Students
Loren Kelly

I talk with students daily and many of them want to know, do employers care about GPA? Is a 3.4 GPA good? Or, can I get a job with a 2.6 GPA? A big emphasis is placed on your grade point average in high school and college. Scholarships, financial aid, accolades like Dean’s List and President’s List, car insurance, and more. It makes sense that students ask this question.

Do Employers Care About GPA? Answers to Your Questions

I’m here to set the record straight about employment and GPA.

• Do employers care about GPA? Yes, to some extent.
• Does it stop students from getting hired? Sometimes.
• Is it one of the most important factors in hiring? No.

In fact, here is what is more important to employers when hiring.

A Good Personality Fit

Employers have told me time and time again that they want the right person for the job. A student who is willing to learn, work hard, and fits well with their team is, without a doubt, the most important qualification they look for when hiring.

What it comes down to is the right person can be taught the skills and knowledge needed to do a job. What is impossible is to change a personality and personal values to fit a company or position.

Relevant Work Experience

After assessing how a candidate’s personality might fit the position and team, next, companies look for relevant work experience. This is why I so strongly stress the importance of gaining experience during your education and training. Summer jobs, part-time work, and internships are highly valued by employers.

Employers state they prefer to hire interns for full-time positions over graduates who have not worked for their company. Why? They already know an intern’s personality, work ethic, and attitude. As early and often as possible, gain relevant work experience.

Credible Education and Training

After a company has assessed the personality fit and a candidate’s work experience, then the hiring committee will often look at education and training. A reputable and well-known program can earn a candidate immediate recognition and credibility.

When looking at a candidate’s education and training, do employers care about GPA? Having a 3.5 or higher is definitely a selling point. If you have a good GPA, you should definitely include it on your resume. If you do not, however, don’t worry. Simply leave it off of your resume. Chances are, interview time will be spent on the topics above and GPA may never come up in conversation.

When will employers ask about GPA?

If you are applying for internships, you will find some job descriptions that list GPA requirements. Competitive internships have minimum requirements so the most promising students are considered. Is a 3.4 GPA good? Yes, it is a competitive GPA in most majors of study. Is a 2.6 GPA good? It’s pretty average. But, have I seen the student with a 2.6 hired over a student with a 3.4? Yes, many times.

If you are applying to internships, you’ll likely see some that have a GPA requirement of a 3.0 or higher. If you find an internship that you really want and it has a GPA requirement you don’t meet, ask if you can submit your major-specific GPA.

As for recent college graduates, employers sometimes ask for a transcript when an offer is made. At that point, you’ve already impressed them with the interview and it is unlikely an offer will be revoked due to GPA. The request for a transcript is usually to verify a degree.

Are you looking for a job or internship?

You’ve come to the right place. I’m passionate about helping people find a job they are truly passionate about and a company that is the best fit. Regardless of where you in the job search journey, I can help. Resume reviews and interview preparation are two of my specialties! Book a free consultation and I’ll happily share some tips with you!

Book a free consultation today!

Do employers care about GPA? Answers to Your Questions!
Loren Kelly

Colleges across the nation are busy finalizing details to host a valuable career fairs for both students and employers. Many students wonder, how do job fairs work? I’ve been on the organizing end of career fairs, and it is one of the best times of the year. Students, to maximize success, it is essential to come prepared! When I am sitting at the registration table the day of these events, it is immediately evident to me which students have prepared ahead of time! Here are ten tips for career fairs and student success!

How do Job Fairs Work?

Before: Tips for Career Fairs

That’s right, the students who find the most success at career fairs are the ones who prepare before the event. If you missed my previous article, “Should I miss class for the college career fair?” be sure to read it. I cover some great tips to help you enter the career fair with the right mindset! Here are the five main steps you should take that relate to your success preparing for the career fair:

1.    Make a list for yourself – Most colleges post a list of the employers that will be in attendance at the career fair on their website weeks (sometimes even a few months) in advance. Get online and make a list of the companies you are most interested in speaking with at the event. I recommend choosing about five to target during your time at the career fair.

2.    Do your research – Once you have your list, research those companies. Read their website and blog if they have one. Next, familiarize yourself with their mission, products, and services. Knowing this information will help you make a great first impression and spend your time covering more important topics in the conversation. If you are hoping to secure a summer internship or your first full-time job, be sure to make special notes of any opportunities listed on company websites.

3.    Write a list of questions and topics – As you are researching, write a few questions or topics you’d like to discuss with each of the companies on your list. Doing this will help you make a great impression and also help you avoid awkward lulls in conversation that can happen when networking at career fairs.

4.    Apply for any internships or positions ahead of time – If a company is offering an internship or job that you are interested in, submit your application before the career fair. Then, you can use the conversation at the event to mention that you have applied online in hopes that the representative you speak with might pass along your resume or name to the hiring manager. It is appropriate to ask if you can leave a resume with the representative but avoid asking for a “good word” unless you have an existing relationship with the person you are speaking with. Let your impression and demeanor speak for itself. If you haven’t written or updated your resume, get help with it prior to the career fair!

5.    Prepare an elevator pitch – An elevator pitch is a professional introduction. It is usually 30-60 seconds in length and gives a brief overview of who you are, what you have done (experience), what you are studying (education), and where you are heading (a professional goal). Remember, don’t memorize it word for word but rehearse it a few times so you can introduce yourself comfortably and confidently.

Day of the Event: Tips for Career Fairs

You’ve done the prep work and the day has come! If you are wondering, “How do job fairs work on the day of the event?” Here are some day-of tips:

6.    Dress for success – Your appearance makes a difference! Iron your shirt, pants, and/or skirt and look sharp. Subtle make-up and fragrance are ok but don’t overdo it. When trying to choose between outfit options, always select the more conservative option. Finally, don’t forget to SMILE! A smile is an essential part of your “outfit” for the day.

7.    Take a professional folder with paper and resumes – You’ll need a place to store your research notes and the questions you prepared prior to the career fair. I suggest a professional, black portfolio with paper inside and place to store business cards (see number nine below). You’ll also want to have ample copies of your resume, printed on nice resume paper, in the event you have the opportunity to present one to an employer.

8.    Make a name tag – Next, be sure to stop at the registration desk and make a name tag. Write legibly! It goes on the left side of your chest (over your heart), so it is easily visible when you reach out and offer a firm, confident handshake. Why is this important? Because there are many people out there, I am one of them, who are terrible with names. Employers will talk to many students throughout the day. They will appreciate being able to glance down at your name tag for a quick reminder of your name. Plus, the more times they see your name, the more likely it is to stick!

9.    Collect a business card at the end of the conversation – This is an important step! Always be building your network. I suggest collecting a business card from every person you talk to (if possible). In between your conversations, take a moment to pause and take a deep breath. Then, write a brief note on the back of the business card. This will remind you of where you met the person and one significant point from your conversation. If someone you speak with is out of cards or doesn’t have one, ask if you may take their email address or connect with them on LinkedIn. Many students who ask me, “how do job fairs work?” don’t follow through with this step, and it is a very, very important one!

After the Event: Tips for Career Fairs

10.  Send a thank you, follow-up card/email – Finally, there is one very important step that I bet 95 percent of your peers won’t do. A follow-up/thank you card is another way to set yourself apart! One to two days after the event, send either a hand-written thank you note or email to each person you spoke with. Thank them for their time and perspective. This is where those business cards with the notes on the back come in handy! Personalize the thank you message with the one significant point from the conversation. This will help them recall who you are, remember that they potentially spoke with hundreds of students, and ensure you make a lasting impression.

Phew. That’s a lot more than just showing up to the career fair for an hour and walking around chatting with representatives, isn’t it? Yes, it definitely is. However, if you take the time to follow these tips for career fairs, I know you’ll make a great impression on the companies at the event and feel confident in your networking abilities. Remember, no time spent networking is ever wasted! Best of luck! If you follow for these tips for career fairs, you’re sure to make an excellent impression! And, now, you can help others when they ask “how do job fairs work?”

Get help with your resume and cover letter!

If you are attending a career fair soon or are in the market for a new job, don’t make the common mistakes many applicants do such as a general resume or not including keywords that will get your application pushed to the top.

How the resume revision service works:

1. Book the package by visiting my “Resume Help” page.
2. Provide a rough draft of your resume and position description for a job or internship for which you plan to apply.
3. Feedback, revision suggestions, and formatting help will be provided via a one-hour video call.
4. Email availability for follow-up questions and clarification will be provided to clients during the revision process.

Simply book a free consultation or email me to get started!

How can I help?

As an experienced educator and career coach, I sit down with students and young professionals one-on-one and assist them as they articulate their goals and develop a plan to achieve them! The path to success is not straightforward. My mission is to help you experience true career fulfillment through proactive coaching and career planning.

Book a free consultation today!

How do Job Fairs Work?
Loren Kelly

More and more young adults are considering a gap year. And rightfully so. It is tough to graduate in the current economic state, and maybe you want to experience the world and life before you begin your career! If you are wondering what to do during a gap year after college, you’ve come to the right place. I’m going to give you some great options that won’t only be unique experiences, but they will look great on a resume. Think of a gap year after college as a resume builder, not a career wrecker!

What to Do During a Gap Year After College

1. Volunteer Abroad with a Career-Related Organization

If you want to travel and experience other cultures while also building your resume, consider spending a gap year after college volunteering for an organization and a cause for which you are passionate. Are you interested in agriculture? Some programs allow you to volunteer in age-related roles in foreign countries. How about a healthcare-related major? There are programs for you too! Go Abroad has a great list that you can use to begin exploring your options!

2. Become an Au Pair or Teach English in a Foreign Country

If expenses are a concern, but you have a strong desire to travel after college graduation, consider becoming an au pair or teaching English abroad! Being immersed in another culture can be intimidating; however, having a family or school to guide you through it makes it a lot less intimidating! Of course, you must have a strong love for children and a desire to be flexible and helpful.

If you are looking to enter any child-related career or customer-oriented field, au pair or teaching experience will allow you to acquire a highly sought-after skill set!

3. Internships for Recent Graduates

Contrary to popular belief, internships are not just for college students. Recent graduates can also apply to many prestigious internships! If you like the idea of a gap year and a paycheck, consider an internship!

Many graduates are excited about having earned their degree but just aren’t sure how to use it. One of the best ways to use a gap year is to get the first-hand experience in a career area of interest so you can make an informed decision about the future with a short-term internship commitment.

4. Leadership Development Programs

Does the idea of starting your career right after graduation seem unappealing because you aren’t sure what you want to do? Or, does the idea of choosing a job and then sitting behind a desk sound awful, BUT the idea of getting a steady paycheck is great? If so, consider resuming the job search but looking at Leadership Development programs specifically.

If you’re wondering what to do during a gap year after college for experiences and broadening your horizons, a leadership development program may do that for you! Leadership Development Programs and Rotational Programs allow graduates to rotate between departments, teams, and even locations over a predetermined period. This approach enables graduates to obtain a better holistic view of the organization and determine a department or role in which they would thrive.

Even if you are very tied to a more traditional gap year, I hope you’ll consider a leadership development program after your gap year. These programs give students the first-hand, trial-and-error perspective that it takes to make confident and informed decisions about the future.

5. Start a business, nonprofit organization, or a blog

If the idea of owning your own business has been in the back of your mind, why not use a gap year to pursue that dream? As an entrepreneur myself, I wish I had acquired some business experience sooner in life. Even if it is an Etsy shop or a local service-based business with low overhead, give yourself a year to start a business, learn, grow, and see how it goes!

A business can take many forms. Perhaps you have a unique passion and would like to start a nonprofit organization to service your community! A year of raising capital and forming your plan is just what you may need to make it a reality!

Finally, consider starting a blog, especially if your gap year experience involves any of the above four ideas. Think of all of the future generations you can impact by sharing your gap year journey and learning experiences! Or, if you are passionate about another topic and love to express yourself in writing, consider starting a blog to monetize it through sponsorships, advertisements, and becoming an affiliate!

I know planning for the future can be really intimidating. I also know how enriching new and different experiences are. I had the wonderful privilege of living abroad for three years, and it changed my life in all of the best ways. I consider that period of my life to have brought me the most meaningful experiences and growth to date and I love helping young people figure out how to have the same!

Let’s chat about your plans for the future!

I get it. Not only do you need a solid plan for your gap year, but you probably have friends, family, and loved ones wondering what your plan is after that. Let me help you sort through your options and devise a gap year plan that gives you career momentum! Together, we can plan your bright and promising future!

What to Do During a Gap Year After College
Loren Kelly

Have you found yourself feeling stuck, unmotivated, or unfocused? Have you wondered how to build your career? You may be feeling stuck or frustrated because you aren’t sure how all of the hard work you are putting in is going to translate to your future career.

Sometimes just getting started in finding a meaningful career feels overwhelming because you do not have the necessary tools or knowledge. Here’s how to build your career!

How to Build Your Career, Step-by-Step

Following these steps will bring you the clarity you are seeking and empower you to pursue your future with confidence!

Seek Career Planning Assistance

It is too easy to pick a job or career with decent pay. It appears like a good job on paper but then ends up being a poor fit for you. Taking the extra step to pursue professional career planning help has the potential to save you years spent in a career you may not enjoy or reach your full potential.

All too often job seekers do not identify their strongest skill sets or what career values truly mean the most to them, simply because they are not provided with this knowledge. Have a set of criteria with which to measure different careers for long-term fulfillment is very helpful! For example, most people say the salary of a job is one of the most important factors when making their decision, but what most don’t realize is how important their work environment is to them.

What good is it to have a decent paycheck, but hate every second of your workday because you are in the wrong career field? I can help you identify your non-negotiable work values and determine a career path that will bring you long-term fulfillment!

Speak to People Within Career Fields of Interest

Seeking guidance from those currently working in your chosen career field would give you a significant advantage once you have narrowed down what job options you believe are suitable for you. Job shadowing and interviewing these employees will give more insight into the day-to-day activities of these career choices instead of only relying on what an employer might list in a job description or what a hiring manager might ask in an interview.

Many career coaches, myself included, will recommend job shadowing to experience first-hand what the position entails, which helps solidify realistic expectations for your chosen career field. Interacting closely with these individuals will help you confidently pursue this career choice or know to look elsewhere.

Try Volunteer Work!

Volunteer work is an effective avenue for not only seeing if a job field is right for you, but you will also build your resume, and provide assistance to good causes within your community! For example, those interested in pursuing a career in the medical field may decide to volunteer in a nursing home or hospital to gain applicable experience. Local charity centers or churches are great places to reach out to serve, and you may find your passion where you least expect it.

Further Your Education

When deciding what career to pursue next you need to consider what qualifications you must meet to be considered for the position. Some entry-level jobs, like in the finance field, require specific certifications or a college degree, and it is expected to obtain some form of higher education to apply for positions higher than entry-level.

It is also wise to research what requirements will need to be met for you to grow within that company to know if you can realistically advance or if you are about to enter another dead-end job. Sometimes employers will also invest in employees to obtain desired certifications or to further their education, so ensure that you inquire about professional development opportunities within that company.

Develop a Plan of Action

The key step in changing jobs or beginning a career is to develop a realistic plan to ensure this process goes smoothly. Avoid gaps of unemployment and do your best to obtain desired training before submitting job applications. Finally, in the current pandemic, more and more employers are using software to screen online applicants. So, be sure to prepare an ats-friendly resume that will allow your resume to make it past screening software and into the hands of the hiring manager. Get help with your resume to ensure you land the interview!

Once you understand your desires and what you want out of your future career, find opportunities to gain first-hand experience. Then, you will be able to confidently pursue your education, training, internships, and, ultimately, your dream job!

Download my FREE Resume Checklist

Make sure your resume includes these three key elements so you stand out against multitude of applicants. 

Step-by-Step Coaching to Guide Your through How to Build Your Career

Hi there, I’m Loren! I’m a Career Coach for students and Young Professionals! I have spent the last 10 years of my career helping others progress theirs! I love what I do and I’m good at it. Read what clients have to say! If you’ve landed on this page, you’re feeling stuck. I get it, I’ve been there. The fastest way to get unstuck and in the job/career you want is to get help and accountability. Let me guide you through the process, help you write a bang-up resume and cover letter, and land your dream job!

How to Build Your Career, Step-by-Step
Loren Kelly

There has been a recurring theme in conversations with my college-aged coaching clients lately. “College advising isn’t helping me plan my future.” Ouch. As a higher-ed professional, it stings when I hear multiple remarks like this from different students. I have worked in college and university settings for 10 years, two of which I spent in a college advising related role. I have witnessed first-hand the struggles students and higher-ed professionals face. There is a disconnect between what students expect and what they experience with regard to planning for the future. Let me explain.

What Students Expect from College Advising & Career Planning

Most students go to college advising appointments expecting clarity and help to figure out their future. After all, these people are called “Advisors,” shouldn’t they be good at giving advice to students? Three of my recent clients have come to me and said, “I tried to talk to my college advisor, but he/she wasn’t helpful. I’m stuck. I have no idea what I want to do with my life, but I need to make a decision about my major.” Students walk in with high expectations for clarity and reassurance and typically walk out with an updated list of classes they need to take and maybe a link to a career interest survey to help them choose a career. Why does this happen?

What is Expected of College Advising Professionals

The role of advisors looks slightly different from college to college and state to state; however, generally speaking, these individuals are highly knowledgeable concerning college degrees, courses, and programs. Their job is to meet with students and help them be successful in forming an academic plan for their time at that educational institution. Most college advisors see the students in their caseload once a semester for about 30 minutes. They are absolute experts in helping students navigate which classes to take and when to earn their degree successfully at that institution.

The Big Disconnect

Have you identified the issues yet? First, most advisors see the students in their caseload twice a year for 30 minutes. How in-depth can a conversation about the future get in 30 minutes? Not very, especially when you need to figure out what classes the student must take to graduate on time.

Another issue is the area of expertise. College advising is just that, advising for college. These professionals are highly trained and extremely knowledgeable when it comes to academics and degree plans. Very few are also trained in the realm of career advising and career planning.

Finally, the last issue lies with the root word of “advice.” Students expect advice. They are unsure of themselves (which is why they are there), and they want advice, a career diagnosis so-to-speak, and for someone to tell them, “this is the path for you!” The issue with this expectation is no one can make that decision for a student. If students rely on someone else to determine their path, they are like to end up unhappy, unfulfilled, and lacking the confidence they so deeply desire.

So, what’s the alternative or addition to college advising?

If a student is struggling to find a career she is passionate about, a 30-minute advising meeting is not going to get her the confidence a clarity she needs. The career planning process takes weeks and hours to be done correctly. This is a quantity of time that many higher-ed institutions will struggle to devote to individual students. Most colleges and universities simply don’t have enough human resources to provide that individualized attention to as many students that need it.

The answer is individualized career coaching. It is a series of highly tailored, specific steps that will help a confused and overwhelmed student sort through his/her options and find clarity and confidence in a direction for the future. Then, when that career path is established, each college advising appointment is going to be extremely helpful. An academic goal will be set, a career plan will be laid out, and the student will be on his way to success.

How to Start Career Planning

If you or your child can relate to the frustrations outlined above, download my free Academic and Career Planning Roadmap. In this guide, I provide the sequential steps to help students find career clarity BEFORE investing thousands of dollars in higher education. Through spending time on the proper career planning steps, you will save time, money, and frustration!

Want help finding your perfect career?

As an experienced educator and career coach, I sit down with students and young professionals one-on-one and assist them as they articulate their goals and develop a plan to gain career-relevant experience! I guide students through the internship search, application, and interview process, teaching them life-long skills for career success!

Book a free consultation today!

Why College Advising Isn’t Enough
Loren Kelly