By: Chelsea Tobias

During these times, it seems like almost every aspect of life is going through near-constant change and uncertainty. While there may be a lot outside of your control right now, it is more important than ever to identify what is in your control and focus on what you can do. Below are some options to help you stay engaged and on track this summer:

• Manage your expectations for this time. Your definition of productivity or success may shift, and that is totally okay. Your worth is not determined by what you have done or what you will do in the future. You are worthy right now, as you are.

• If you are finding yourself with more unstructured time, consider re-evaluating your priorities and setting some new goals, intentions, and routines for the next several months. This shift in daily life may help to clarify which things you really enjoy and are engaged by the most and what you can let go of. Use some of our self-guided assessments and activities to reflect on your career interests, values, strengths, and skills.

• While you may no longer be able to physically study abroad, you can still find ways to gain global experience. You can enroll in the UF International Scholars Program to structure global experiences through international coursework, language learning, and co-curricular activities. Additionally, programs like CEA are offering virtual internships abroad and apps like Duolingo allow you to learn a new language from home.

• If you are still looking for a summer internship or full-time job, there are options available through virtual internships or freelance and remote work. Follow up with positions you may have already applied to or consider attending an upcoming virtual career fair. You can identify employers who are still hiring here or searching Gator CareerLink.

• If you are looking for ways to give back while gaining meaningful experience, there are a number of virtual options out there. Visit these sites to search for online volunteer opportunities:
  • https://www.dosomething.org/us/articles/9-places-to-volunteer-online-and-make-a-real-impact
  • https://www.operationwarm.org/blog/25-volunteer-jobs-to-do-from-home/
  • https://www.onlinevolunteering.org/en

• Keep networking! Building professional connections is more important than ever, so take this time to attend virtual office hours with your professors, utilize the Find Alumni tool on LinkedIn, or set up a virtual informational interview with a professional in a career that interests you.

• Schedule time to update your professional documents and make preparations for your next steps – this can include updating your Resume or Cover Letter, preparing yourself for phone or virtual interview formats, or make time to study for the GRE or other examinations needed for graduate or professional school.

• In addition to taking online classes, you can learn a new skill through LinkedIn Learning, which is free to UF students.

If you need help strategizing, the Career Connections Center is here to support you. To get started, schedule a 30-minute virtual Career Planning Appointment. Our career coaches are available to talk about alternative plans and ways to move towards your goals during this time.