By Deon Myers

While summer break is a well-deserved time to relax and recharge, it’s also a golden opportunity, especially for high school and college students, to get ahead in building a strong career foundation.

Here are a few impactful things students can do this summer to stand out:

✅ Intern or Volunteer
Whether it’s a paid internship, a nonprofit project, or helping out at a local business, real-world experience builds your resume and your confidence.

✅ Build Skills
Take online courses (many are free!) in areas like coding, graphic design, marketing, writing, or data analysis. Skill-building now means job-ready later.

✅ Network
Attend community or industry events, reach out to professionals on LinkedIn, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. One conversation can open a door.

✅ Work on a Passion Project
Start a blog, launch a small business idea, or create something you’re proud of. Initiative speaks volumes to future employers.

✅ Update Your LinkedIn and Resume
Document your work, even if it’s informal. Learn how to communicate what you’re learning and doing, employers love that.

Summer isn’t just a break from school, it’s a chance to invest in yourself.

(Deon Myers is a contributing content provider for our website.  He also supports the Military Transition Roundtable as a facilitator.)