The summer break is a good opportunity to pause, reflect and take small steps towards your future career.

Published Monday, 1st June, 2026 in University news

Please note, this article is for students based at Clerkenwell and Moorgate campuses.

Whether you already have a clear plan or are still exploring your options, using the summer to get ahead can make applications and career decisions feel more manageable later.

Here are a few practical ways to make the most of the summer period.

1. Give your CV a proper summer refresh

Summer is a good time to update your CV without the pressure of deadlines and classes.

Add any new experience from this year, including:

  • new modules or academic projects
  • part-time work
  • volunteering
  • society involvement
  • mooting or competitions
  • pro bono work
  • placements or internships
  • any role where you used communication, organisation or teamwork skills

Careers Hub has CV guidance, templates and resources to help you improve your applications and prepare for future opportunities.

2. Build your “evidence bank” 

One thing many students forget is how quickly you lose track of examples you could use in applications and interviews.

Use the summer to write down situations where you demonstrated skills such as:

  • Teamwork: I contributed to group work or supported others in a shared task.
  • Resilience: I worked under pressure during exam season.
  • Organisation: I balanced my studies with part-time work or other responsibilities.
  • Communication: I gave a presentation, took part in a discussion or explained something clearly to others.
  • Problem-solving: I dealt with a difficult situation and found a practical way forward.
  • Leadership: I took responsibility for organising something or helping a group stay on track.

Even small experiences, such as balancing studies with work, contributing to a group project or managing exam pressure, can become valuable examples later on.

3. Explore career options 

Summer is a great time to research different career paths without feeling rushed.

Careers Hub has resources on:

  • CV support
  • interview preparation
  • assessment centres
  • psychometric and online tests
  • career planning
  • employer events and opportunities

You might find a route you had not seriously considered before.

4. Start light networking

Networking does not have to be scary or require sending formal messages to strangers every day. It can be as simple as updating your LinkedIn, following firms or organisations you are interested in, connecting with alumni, or attending online careers events.

A useful summer goal could be to message two or three people whose career paths interest you. Ask simple questions like how they got into their role, what they wish they had known as a student, or what skills are useful in their area.

This can help you understand different careers in a more realistic way than just reading job descriptions.

5. Update your Career Map profile 

At enrolment last September, students answered questions about their career thinking through Career Map.

If your ideas or goals have changed since then, you can now update your responses to receive more relevant suggestions and support tailored to where you are now.

Whatever stage you’re at, whether you feel fully prepared or completely unsure, support is available to help you explore your next steps.

Explore Careers Hub resources and update your Career Map profile.