Summer 2020 plans

We survived Spring 2020, the semester that will be known across the world as “that” semester.  I’m very proud of all of you for your resilience, flexibility and persistence as we battled through a very unexpected and tumultuous time.

This summer may be a bit different than we’re used to.  We will likely be encouraged to continue practicing social distancing, so we may be stuck at home a little longer...  As a result, internships, research opportunities and other experiential learning experiences may be limited (not to mention vacations cancelled!)  We should try to take advantage of this “down time” and shift our actions into something productive.  Personally, having goals or something to work on helps me become more motivated and less anxious.  It also allows me to focus my energy in a more positive way (away from the news and any negative thoughts surrounding it).  Here are some suggestions for you:

Academic Activities

• Consider taking a summer course at UMD or at an institution closer to home.
• Gather information about off-campus study opportunities, including Study Abroad
• Develop and/or update your ENSP Graduation Plan
• If “academic improvement” is one of your goals, explore strategies and resources available to use next semester.
• Explore the possibility of graduate and/or law school, even if you don't plan to go right away.

Professional Development Activities and Career Exploration

• Prepare for a future internship.  Check out all of the employers and organizations in the area that students often get experience at, and see where you’d like to work in the future!  Some may be hiring for remote/teleworking opportunities!
• Update your resume
• Make the most of what the UMD Career Center offers.
• Explore possible careers – Look at “generic” information as well as information about what previous ENSP students are doing.  
• Do some Informational Interviews:  Sometimes the best advice and information about careers can be found from those who are currently working in the field!  An informational interview is an informal conversation with someone who is working in an area that interests you that can give you a "day in the life" perspective and share information about that particular field. It's not a job interview, nor are you expected to find job openings - you're basically chatting with a working professional about their career.  Find out more HERE. You can also ask family members, friends or faculty members for their advice and "connections"

Volunteer:

Yes, you can still make an impact, even remotely! Check out these suggestions from Operation Warm.

Most importantly, take care of yourself.  This is a stressful time for many, so your mental health is of utmost importance.  If re-watching the entire series of The Office relaxes you, keep watching.  If baking cupcakes relieves stress, stay in the kitchen (and save me some!).  Get outside and enjoy nature.  Meditate. You are not obligated to do any academic- or career-related tasks this summer unless you want to.  Relax and recharge.

I’m still teleworking throughout the summer, so if you need anything, please reach out.

Enjoy your summer, however you decide to spend it.  

Angela