Sun-shine filled days, the smell of freshly cut grass, exploring London, the UK and even the world – all things I would associate with summer break during university. 
The days are long, my to-do list is not. Having been freed from deadlines and exams the first few weeks of summer are absolute bliss! But…after the honeymoon period (anywhere between 2-3 weeks) the realisation sets in that you’re at a loss of what to do over the next three months. How can I (and you…and you) make the most out of the summer?
There are no hard and fast rules for what you can or can’t, should or shouldn’t do over the summer – it is the time to let your hair down and recharge after all! But there are lots of different things you can be doing that won’t feel like hard work, that’ll allow you to have new experiences, make new friends and contacts and just have fun!
Travel ✈️
Whilst it would be amazing to travel around a continent for the duration of the summer, this can get quite expensive but there are lots of opportunities to have adventures around the world for a couple of weeks! Schemes such as the one run by the International Citizen’s Service are popular and a great way to experience a different culture, meet new people and volunteer your time. Alternatively, if going international isn’t for you, you could always see more of the UK with day or weekend trips! Megabus offer very cheap coach and train tickets – sometimes as low as £1! (As a fellow student I appreciate any and every opportunity to bag myself a bargain). Yesterday’s post by Marieke is also packed full of great ideas of ways to combine work, volunteering and travel, check it out here.
Work, work, work, work, work…
Work experience, volunteering, internships or part-time work, there are lots of opportunities to expand your skillset over the summer and even earn some money (to help fund those trips!). If there’s a field you’re interested in potentially going into, now is the time to explore if it’s right for you. I once did two weeks at my local paper which was great, but ultimately not for me. I did however get a few pieces published which I could add to my portfolio (every cloud!). Casual, part-time work is perfect for the summer and lots of places like shops, cafes, even more office based businesses offer this! (Let’s be honest, all those coffees in the winter won’t buy themselves!)
Conferences
Conferences are a great way to get inspired for the upcoming academic year. Now you may be thinking, “I’ve just finished for the year, I want to switch of a little!”, and that’s okay. But let me dispel some preconceptions you might have. Conferences aren’t just stuffy lecture theatres full of professors. There are research poster presentations, lectures, Q&As, sometimes there are workshops too. 
These events are a fantastic way to engage and network with people at the forefront of fields and to make new connections. Whether you’re thinking ahead about further study or just curious, summer really is conference season – and could even take you to international locations! Sun, Sea and Philosophy – has there ever been a better combination? (Just kidding…but not really).
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