Tips from Campus: How to utilize your winter break to it’s fullest potential

Tips from Campus is a monthly column written by WWPR member Jordan DeJarnette exploring a wide range of topics from a student’s perspective including guidance to young PR professionals beginning their careers in public relations. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of Washington Women in Public Relations As another month comes to a close, I find myself scratching my head and wondering where this past semester has gone. I can hardly believe that within a matter of seven months I will officially be a college graduate! With the end of the semester comes sleepless caffeine-filled nights and lots (I mean LOTS) of hours spent at the library cramming for those dreaded final exams.  What also comes with it is the long-overdue winter break – a time for family, hometowns and plenty of non-microwaveable meals. Break is an ideal time to return to your spring internship search that you neglected during the craziness that comes with the end of the semester. The first thing to do as you begin your search is take a look at application deadlines. Most companies want to get their interns secured before the start of the new year, so make sure that you make those with the earlier cut-off dates high priority. The best resource you have when it comes to crunch time is your own school!  In many instances you will find the different university departments offer various internships. These opportunities are perfect for students because they are located directly on campus and will normally be more flexible with you when it comes to your school schedule. If there is a specific department that you’re interested in, give them a call and ask if they offer any sort of internship program. If the department doesn’t have an internship program, don’t hesitate to ask if they are aware of any other departments on campus that do.  Don’t forget to also take a look at places like the athletic department, Chancellors office and the office of student affairs. Also, reach out to your favorite teachers! Explain to them what you’re looking for and if they have any inside knowledge into what their department offers and help you get your foot in the door. However you choose to go about your search, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there! Taking on an internship during your last semester of college will benefit you months after you graduate and are on the hunt for a “big girl job.” It shows employers that you’re dedicated to your craft and always putting in work to enhance and add to your skillset!