For college students at UC Davis, summer break can often feel like a period of instability. Without a concrete schedule of classes, work, or social activities to structure the day, it’s easy to feel adrift. Those who stay in Davis are left with only a fraction of the student population to connect with, while those who return to their hometowns experience a shift away from the college lifestyle they’ve grown accustomed to over the past year.

This summer struggle is only worsened by the looming pressure of internships. The battle to secure a coveted summer position, ideally in your desired career field, is hard-fought year-round. I’ve personally seen more Handshake and LinkedIn job postings than I’d care to count. But in light of rejection emails and, worse, perpetual ghosting from potential employers, there are ways to make your summer break worthwhile.

One option is to take summer classes. Whether through UC Davis Summer Sessions or a local community college, summer courses can help you earn transferable credit toward your degree and even save money compared to taking the same course during the regular academic year. As a sociology major, I had been putting off taking SOC 1, the introductory course for my degree, since my freshman year. But I finally decided to save time during the school year by taking it over the summer. Many courses, especially at community colleges, offer hybrid or online formats, so transportation doesn't have to be a barrier. Even General Education classes can help you stay mentally engaged and better prepared for Fall Quarter.

Another way to stay involved over the summer is by volunteering. Our spare time as college students can be incredibly valuable to the communities around us. Volunteering at local food banks, shelters, healthcare facilities, or libraries can be a rewarding experience, and it’s also a great way to give back. Plus, it adds meaningful experience to resumes, job applications, and grad school materials, helping develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Depending on the organization and time commitment, some volunteer roles may even include a stipend, hourly pay, or academic credit.

Finally, if you’re not working or interning this summer, it’s okay to simply enjoy your time off. After all, once we’re out of school, few careers offer a “summer break.” This might be one of the last chances you have for a full, three-month pause from the daily grind of work and school. While it’s easy to slip into a listless routine, I encourage you to make the most of this time. Pick up a new hobby or creative project, stay active, and finally do those things you never have time for during the school year. Most importantly, stay healthy, stay safe, and stay cool (in both senses of the word).

Happy summer, Aggies!

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