Making the most of summer: growth and sunshine
When summer break begins, I usually feel a mix of excitement and motivation. It’s a chance to break out of the regular routine, focus on professional goals, and enjoy some well-deserved time with friends. For students, summer can be a key moment for both personal wellbeing and career development. Internships help us build real-world skills and self-confidence, while weekends offer the perfect opportunity to embrace the summer lifestyle.
My summer plans: from consulting to culture
This summer, I’ll be working as an intern at one of the world’s leading consulting firms in Munich, specifically in the tech sector. I found this opportunity through long-term career coaching, which helped me shape my CV by focusing on academic performance, international internships, and volunteering. It’s exciting to apply what I’ve learned so far and get a taste of the consulting world while working with top-tier professionals.
Beyond the workweek, I’m looking forward to discovering the beauty of southern Germany and its surroundings. I’ll be exploring places like Austria, Switzerland, and different German cities on the weekends together with my girlfriend, soaking in culture, food, and nature. For anyone planning travel on a student budget, Europe’s rail network is a hidden gem. In Germany, the 60€ monthly travel pass lets you access nearly the entire country.
Volunteering and giving back
Apart from my internship, I’ll also be volunteering as an ambassador for both York St John and my home school. My role involves helping new students adjust to the UK academic system. This is something I’m passionate about after my own international experience. The opportunity came through my engagement at York St John, where I’ve been active as a course representative and student researcher. Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose and helps me stay connected with the student community, even during the break.
Rest? Maybe later!
To be honest, I’m not planning on resting much. While self-care is important, I believe your twenties are a time to build as many core skills and experiences as possible. Still, I know that for many students, taking a step back to relax is key to avoiding burnout, and it’s something I try to keep in mind too.
Final thoughts
For new students, I’d say the best way to balance fun and personal growth over summer is to schedule your weeks intentionally. Focus on learning and working during the weekdays, and leave the weekends open for fun, travel, or simply switching off. If I could give myself advice at the start of summer, it would be: Go all out!
By the end of the summer, I hope to feel more experienced, confident, and ready to take on the next stage of my professional journey.
How will you spend your summer? Whether it’s a part-time job, a new country to explore, or just a few hours a week learning something new, every step you take can help you grow.
To find out more information about what it’s like doing an internship about, read Maria’s blog where she shares her experience from studying abroad and doing her internship in Greece.
If you’re interested in finding an internship or a part-time job during summer, make sure to check our careers services here.
