Six ways to boost your CV and grow as an individual and future professional after the academic year ends

By Hannah Vuozzo , Communications Manager

The academic year may be coming to an end, but your career journey is just beginning!

The next few months hold loads of potential for personal and professional growth, so here are a few things to help you boost your CV and grow as a person and future professional.

Internships and work placements

Securing an internship or work placement related to your field(s) of interest can be invaluable. These experiences allow you to develop practical skills that can't be taught in a classroom and network with professionals. You’ll also be able to trial your career ideas, getting a feel for different roles, industries and/or organisations.

In the middle of my architecture degree, I realised I didn’t want to become an architect. I decided to transfer to a communications degree and then looked for a summer internship in architectural journalism to see if this would be a good fit for my background and interests. It set me on the right path, equipping me with the knowledge and skills I’d need for my next role.

Check the Internship Hub for the latest opportunities on campus and in the local area. Nothing sparking your interest? Sign up for email alerts and/or check other places like Indeed , LinkedIn Jobs , Goodmoves or organisations’ websites.

Part-time jobs

Don't underestimate the value of part-time jobs. Whether it's working retail, hospitality or tutoring, these roles can help you develop fundamental transferable skills, such as time management, organisation, communication and teamwork.

Browse part-time jobs at the University and beyond on the Student Job Hub , and feel free to pop into local businesses to enquire about opportunities.

Short-term courses

There’s no limit to developing your knowledge and skills, and investing in this is hugely valuable to employers.

Consider enrolling in in-person or online short-term courses relevant to your area(s) of interest.

Platforms like FutureLearn , Coursera and LinkedIn Learning offer tons of options, allowing you to upskill from the comfort of your own home. Many have free courses, and LinkedIn Learning is completely free when you log in with your GUID.

The University also offers microcredentials (with some fully-funded places available) and short courses in a range of subjects.

Next month, I’ll be starting the University’s microcredential in Project Management as it’s a valuable transferable skill for my current work and beyond.

Research projects

If you love academia, you may want to engage in a research project over the summer.

You may need to self-source these opportunities by enquiring directly with tutors about opportunities to assist with ongoing research initiatives.

Even if short-term, this work will give you valuable research experience and deepen your understanding of your chosen subject area.

We often advertise research internships on the Internship Hub . At present, there are roles for:

• Ethics Research Intern (open to PhDs from the College of Social Sciences)
• PGR Interns (Open Research Programme) (open to all postgraduate researchers)

Volunteering

As I discuss in “How volunteering can transform your life and community for the better and how you can get started” , volunteering can significantly enhance your employability and offers several other benefits, including supporting your health and connecting with others.

When I recently volunteered for the Glasgow Film Festival, I learnt about the world of film and made

Look for volunteer opportunities through SRC Volunteering , Volunteer Scotland or LinkedIn Jobs . Moreover, as with any other opportunity, you can enquire directly with organisations.

Freelancing and personal projects

If you have a particular skill or talent, consider freelancing or undertaking side projects during the summer months.

That novel you want to write? Go for it! That short film your want to produce? Make it! That app you want to build? Start it!

Read Adobe’s article “How to Start an Ambitious Personal Project: Strategies for Taking a Leap Without Burning Out” for guidance.

If you decide to pursue freelancing in graphic design, writing, photography, content creation, web development or another area, be sure that your work is to a professional standard. Through freelancing, you’ll be able to showcase your abilities, build your portfolio and earn some extra income. You may even come out with some solid clients.

From internships and part-time work to short-term courses and personal projects, there are loads of things to help you grow professionally and personally. Take advantage of the next few months, and good luck!

Other resources

Our Masterclasses : Join one or both of our final Masterclasses of the academic year, covering LinkedIn and applying to Internship Hub roles