Didn’t land a summer internship? That’s more common than you think and it doesn’t mean this summer has to stall your career. In fact, this could be the perfect opportunity to explore your interests, build new skills, and invest in your future in meaningful ways.
Here’s how to make the most of your summer and stay on track professionally, even without a formal internship:
🎓 1. Learn a New Skill or Earn a Certification
TLDR: Building new skills now makes you more competitive and confident when internship or job opportunities arise. Villanova also offers free access to LinkedIn Learning (click HERE to learn more)
Online platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera or Google Career Certificates offer a chance to dive into technical or transferable skills. From coding and design to data analytics and communication, this is your chance to develop the tools that employers look for and show that you’re a proactive learner.
👥 2. Build and Strengthen Your Network
TLDR: Networking opens doors, builds relationships, and helps you explore paths you might not have considered yet.
Use the LinkedIn Alumni Tool to connect with Villanova alumni and working professionals in various industries you are interested in. Ask about their career paths, day-to-day work, and advice for someone to enter the field. These conversations not only provide insights but can lead to unexpected opportunities down the line.
🚀 3. Launch a Personal Project
TLDR: Creating something on your own builds confidence and gives you concrete examples to share with future employers.
Whether it’s a blog, app, digital portfolio, or small business, a self-initiated project shows creativity, drive, and ownership. Choose something aligned with your interests or career goals and you can point to in future interviews as evidence of your initiative and problem-solving.
💵 4. Work a Part-Time or Seasonal Job
TLDR: Even jobs outside your major can teach valuable workplace skills that apply to any career path.
Summer jobs in retail, food service, or customer support may not sound glamorous, but they help you strengthen teamwork, communication, time management, and resilience. These roles also demonstrate work ethic and adaptability, both important in any field.
❤️ 5. Volunteer in a Strategic Way
TLDR: Volunteering can help you develop leadership and teamwork skills while giving back to your community.
Look for volunteer opportunities where you can take on leadership, apply your academic strengths, or learn something new. These experiences can help you build valuable skills, expand your network, and strengthen your resume or graduate school applications.
🧭 6. Stay Connected with the Career Center!
TLDR: The Villanova Career Center is a year-round resource so use the summer months to check in, ask questions, and prepare for what’s next.
Just because school is out doesn’t mean the campus career resources are! Summer is a great time to schedule a one-on-one virtual appointment to update your resume, refresh your LinkedIn, practice interviewing, or just talk through your career goals.
💡 7. Try a Side Hustle
TLDR: Side hustles show initiative and give you real experience working with clients, managing time, and solving problems.
Whether you’re tutoring, freelancing, editing videos, or selling handmade goods, side hustles teach business fundamentals, like how to manage time, work with clients, and market your strengths. They also let you explore your entrepreneurial side and gain real-world experience on your own terms.
Final Word!
Not every career-building experience comes with a job title. With the right mindset, your summer can still be full of growth, momentum, and meaningful progress. Whether you’re working, learning, creating, or connecting, you’re moving forward, and that’s what really counts.
