General

Category: General

Personal Project Ideas for a Productive Summer 

Summer is a wonderful time to relax and recharge, but it’s also a great opportunity to work on personal projects that can enhance your career prospects and personal growth. Whether you’re a student, a recent graduate, or a working professional, there are many ways to use your summer break to work on personal projects that can help you achieve your goals. Here are some ideas to help you get started: 

Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile: 


Updating your resume and LinkedIn profile is an essential project that can have a significant impact on your career growth and success. These two tools are often the first impression potential employers or professional connections have of you, so it’s essential to ensure they accurately reflect your skills, experience, and achievements.

To start, review your current resume and LinkedIn profile and make any necessary updates. This includes adding new experiences, skills, certifications, and job responsibilities. Make sure your headline, summary, and job descriptions accurately reflect your unique value proposition and what sets you apart from others in your field.

It’s also important to tailor your resume and LinkedIn profile to the specific job or industry you’re interested in. Use relevant keywords and highlight the skills and experiences that align with the job description. This can increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters or hiring managers and increase your likelihood of landing an interview.

The career center’s page on Lawrence’s website is an excellent resource for learning how to write effective resumes and build a strong LinkedIn profile. We offer samples, templates, and guidance on how to highlight your strengths and make a lasting impression on potential employers or connections.

Build Your Personal Website:


Building a personal website is a valuable asset in today’s digital world, regardless of your field of study or profession. It’s a powerful tool that allows you to showcase your skills, experience, and accomplishments to the world. With the rise of online job applications and remote work, having a professional-looking website can help you stand out and make a lasting impression on potential clients, customers, or employers.

Creating a personal website has become easier than ever before, thanks to website builders like Wix, Squarespace, and WordPress. These platforms offer user-friendly interfaces and customizable templates, making it easy to design a website that suits your unique needs and style.

Your personal website should include relevant information such as your resume, portfolio, projects, and any other achievements that demonstrate your expertise and value. It’s an opportunity to showcase your work and highlight your unique selling points to potential clients, customers, or employers. Including a blog, section can also help you establish your authority in your field and attract a wider audience.

In addition to showcasing your skills and experience, a personal website can also help you connect with like-minded professionals in your field. You can use your website to create a network of contacts and share your work with others. This can lead to new opportunities and collaborations that can help you grow professionally.

While building a personal website may not be a common practice in STEM fields, it certainly has its benefits. It offers a platform to showcase your work, connect with others, and establish your authority in your field. It can also demonstrate your proficiency in web development, design, and communication skills, which are highly valued in today’s job market.


Write Research Papers on Topics of Interest:

In today’s fast-paced world, staying up-to-date with the latest academic trends and honing one’s skills has become more critical than ever but staying engaged in academics is a vital aspect of your professional and personal growth. One effective way to stay engaged and work on your own time during the summer is to write research papers on topics of interest.

Writing a research paper is an excellent way to explore a topic in-depth, gain new skills, and showcase your abilities. The best part is that you don’t need any prior research experience or access to data to get started. A review paper can be an excellent place to begin, as it enables you to synthesize and evaluate existing research on a given topic.

To get started, you can identify a topic that piques your interest or that you’ve always wanted to explore. Then, use online databases like the Library, JSTOR, or Google Scholar to find scholarly articles and research papers related to your subject. Once you’ve gathered sufficient information, start synthesizing it into a unique paper that adds value to the existing conversation on the topic.

While writing your research paper, you’ll develop critical thinking, research methodology, writing, and communication skills. You’ll learn to analyze and synthesize complex information and gain valuable insights into the topic you’re exploring. This newfound knowledge and skill set will prove beneficial in your future academic and professional endeavors.

In addition to the personal and professional growth opportunities that come with writing a research paper, it also offers a chance to contribute to the academic community by adding new ideas to the existing discourse. Your paper can open up new avenues of exploration for future researchers, sparking new debates and ideas.

Conduct your passion project:

If you’ve ever had an idea for a personal project or passion project, this summer is the perfect time to turn that idea into a reality. Whether it’s becoming an advocate for a cause you’re passionate about or creating a project to empower a specific group, pursuing your interests can not only bring personal fulfillment but also have a positive impact on your community.

Lawrence University has a history of supporting students in pursuing their personal projects, and many Lawrentians have already turned their ideas into successful ventures. For instance, some students have launched initiatives to promote sustainability, while others have developed programs to support mental health and wellness.

In addition to the support of the Lawrence community, the Career Centre offers Experiential Funding to help students finance their personal projects. These funds can be used to cover project expenses and support your research, development, and implementation.

When choosing a project, consider selecting one that is aligned with your field of study or intended career path. This can help you gain valuable experience and skills that will be relevant to your future career goals. Furthermore, pursuing a project can help you build your resume and make you a more competitive candidate in the job market.

Sports Journalism

If you’re a fan of sports, you might be found glued to your television set every weekend, watching racecars turn left for three hours, or millionaires throwing, hitting or carrying some kind of ball around.  While very few of us will end up as professional athletes, there are career opportunities for those who love sports, are excellent writers and communicators and, in some cases, have a great on-camera or behind the microphone presence.

Whether sitting behind a computer, standing on the field or talking in a broadcast booth, there are jobs in sports journalism.  If you’re a fan of sports and want to get involved in the world without getting too dirty or too injured, sports journalism is the field for you!

The best things about being a sports journalist is meeting your athletic heroes and the opportunity to travel. There is also a good deal of flexibility in your schedule, however you will have to adhere to the professional sports schedule you are covering, which likely means some weekend work.  The industry is also an easy one to explain to family that comes over for Thanksgiving, asking what you’re doing with that degree.

No matter where you live, there is likely a news organization nearby that covers sports. Here in Appleton, the Appleton Post Crescent newspaper and website devote a great deal of coverage to the Green Bay Packers, especially on Mondays. Local Appleton and Green Bay radio and TV stations also dedicate many resources to the coverage of local and statewide sports. Due to media consolidation, there are not as many listed job opportunities as there used to be. For example. Gannett, the largest newspaper publisher in the United States, owns and prints most of the local papers in this area including the aforementioned Post Crescent, the Green Bay Press Gazette, the Oshkosh Northwestern, and the Fond du Lac Reporter.  So rather than applying at a single paper, you would instead apply with Gannett.

Sports journalists usually get their start right out of college as a general reporter, who covers more than just sports. With time and excellent job performance, journalists begin to specialist in certain areas, like sports. A bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism or English is often a requirement to get started. Experience, such as writing for The Lawrentian is also extremely helpful.

As is the case with several industries, the future of sports journalism involves analytics. As there is data collected about every instance in every sport, sports data analysis has increased. Sports publications are now hiring people with extensive background in statistics and mathematics to publish articles detailing this analysis. New metrics are used to compile rankings of players and teams. Blog sites like FiveThirtyEight and other full-time sport analytic sites take available data and construct analytic heavy articles about sports.

In terms of career stability, as long as there are sports, there will be sports journalists who love what they do! If you’d like to learn more, schedule a visit with the Career Center to discuss it further!

https://mwwire.com/2022/09/08/5-reasons-to-become-a-sports-journalist/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports_journalism

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-sportswriter

https://www.butler.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2022/01/sports_journalism_industry_guide_1.pdf

https://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=Sports+Journalism&start=10&pp=gQAPAAABhzNvVjoAAAAB_uVHJAAaAQEBBgHXiQQkOKrzY-qqH6si295itUjSaJwAAA&vjk=e638d7dec679aadd

https://lawrence.joinhandshake.com/stu/appointments/new

Spencer Brown

Spencer R. Brown is a sophomore experiencing their first year at Lawrence University, with a major in Government. They work as a media and marketing assistant in the Career Center, and curates articles for students in both Communication, Journalism & Written Arts (#CJW) and Government, Law & International Relations (#GLI) career communities. A writer and animator by trade, Spencer is fascinated in finding ways to make digesting information entertaining. Feel free to connect with them on LinkedIn here!

How to Work for the Department of Defense

When most people think about jobs at the Department of Defense (DOD), they think that it involves very hands-on work for the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force or Coast Guard.  While that is true in some cases, the DOD is much more than that, and the jobs are too! The Department of Defense is a very big tent when it comes to employment.  The DOD mission is to provide the military forces needed to deter war and ensure our nation’s security.

If you work for the Department of Defense, you are somewhat limited to where you will work and live.  While DOD employees are stationed across the country, the vast majority work at Pentagon in Washington DC.  In fact, the Pentagon is the world’s largest office building, consuming 6.6 million square feet of floor space, with more than 25,000 employees working there on a given day.

Many positions with the DOD are very technical, like providing emergency services to areas in the US that need it most. They also hire maintenance workers, information security specialists, technicians, engineers and public affairs specialists (see the #CJW community resource section.  Given the size of the DOD, it is its own community, so every job you would find in civilian life can also be found in the DOD.  If there’s a field you’re interested in, the DOD is, more than likely, hiring for that position.

So, let’s say that you’re hooked, and there’s nothing that you would want more on this Earth than to work for the Department of Defense or any of its subsidiaries. There are a few websites that might have what you’re looking for, such as usajobs.gov (and if there’s a government job in general that you’re looking for, the first place to look might be usajobs.gov). Handshake has often has positions for the US Army and the NSA, but not directly the DOD. 

The Department of Defense and its subsidiaries provide good, government jobs for people who want to settle down in one of a few select parts of the country and get good benefits while doing serious, important, work. If this at all interests you, keep your eyes on usajobs.gov and see if there’s an opening for your skillset!

WORKS CITED:

https://www.glassdoor.com/Overview/Working-at-US-Department-of-Defense-EI_IE14798.11,35.htm

https://www.usajobs.gov/Search/Results?k=defense

https://lawrence.joinhandshake.com/stu/postings?page=1&per_page=25&sort_direction=desc&sort_column=default&query=nsa

https://www.indeed.com/cmp/United-States-Department-of-Defense/reviews

Spencer R. Brown is a sophomore experiencing their first year at Lawrence University, with a major in Government. They work as a media and marketing assistant in the Career Center, and curates articles for students in both Communication, Journalism & Written Arts (#CJW) and Government, Law & International Relations (#GLI) career communities. A writer and animator by trade, Spencer is fascinated in finding ways to make digesting information entertaining. Feel free to connect with them on LinkedIn here!

Why Internships are Essential for Your Career Development

Many students feel lost when it comes to finding internships and understanding their value. With so much information available online, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and unsure where to begin. However, internships can be a powerful way to gain hands-on experience, explore different career paths, and gain clarity on your future goals. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience interning at M3 Insurance and how it helped me gain a deeper understanding of my career aspirations. Join me as we dive into the many benefits of internships and learn how they can help you find your own path to success.

Gain valuable experience

Internships offer students the opportunity to gain real-world experience. Quite often, that can be more valuable to hiring managers than coursework or degrees. Even if an internship isn’t directly related to a student’s desired career path, it can offer valuable insights into a specific work environment and develop new skills. By participating in internships, students can build a portfolio of work to showcase to future employers and gain a competitive edge in the job market.

Build a professional network and your personal “brand”

Internships offer a unique opportunity to build a professional network and develop a personal brand. Working alongside industry professionals, students can gain valuable insights and build relationships that may lead to future job opportunities. By showcasing their work ethic and willingness to learn, students can establish their own “brand” and become more memorable to potential employers to possibly get hired in the future, or get referred to someone they know.

Understand what you don’t like

Internships allow students to experiment with different career paths and gain clarity on their professional preferences. By trying out various roles and responsibilities, students can gain valuable insights and identify things they don’t like about a job or an industry. Sometimes, instead of trying to find the perfect dream career job right away, it’s better to try out different things and start crossing off the list of what you know you don’t want to do. This will help you understand more about what you need and make more informed decisions about your career paths.

My experience interning at M3 Insurance

Last summer, I interned at M3 Insurance in Green Bay, and although I had never considered the insurance industry before, I discovered many fascinating aspects of it. Through the internship, I had the opportunity to meet inspiring professionals who generously shared their insights and advice with me. I developed valuable skills such as public speaking, project management, and client communication, which will benefit me regardless of my future career path. My internship experience opened up new possibilities for me and was a significant stepping stone in my career journey. It played a crucial role in helping me secure another major internship opportunity at Deloitte in my junior year, which I don’t believe would have been possible without my prior experience.

Internships provide students with the opportunity to get significant experience and get a head start on their peers right out of college. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed at first, but remember that no matter what you do, you will learn if the industry or career you are in is what you want, and you will be able to utilize that as a stepping stone to finding what you are truly interested in later on. Use the internship to meet new people and try out new things; you never know where it’s going to take you.

If you would like to have more questions about looking for an internship, or about my internship experience at M3, feel free to reach out by email (oliver.decroock@lawrence.edu) or schedule an appointment here.

Oliver De Croock ’24, Student-Athlete at Lawrence University majoring in Economics and Data Science. Oliver works as a Career Peer Educator at the Career Center and is the President of the Lawrence University Business Networking Club. Connect with Oliver on LinkedIn.

Three simple ways to grow professionally in your field this summer

As a college student, summer break presents a valuable opportunity to focus on professional development. Whether you’re preparing for your future career, exploring potential interests, or simply looking to gain practical experience, taking proactive steps can set you up for long-term success. Instead of viewing summer as just a break, think of it as a chance to build skills, make connections, and enhance your career prospects. Here are just three simple ways to grow professionally in your field this summer:

  1. Organize your life and map your goals
    Strong organizational skills are crucial for career development, and summer is an ideal time to refine these abilities. Whether you are just starting to explore career options or working toward a specific goal, keeping track of your progress can help you stay motivated and intentional. One effective approach is to journal, make lists, and track your goals. Start by creating a “dream list”—a collection of personal and professional achievements you hope to accomplish within the next year or during your summer job or internship. This could include anything from learning a new skill, landing a research position, or networking with industry professionals.

    Once you have outlined your aspirations, take time to reflect on your existing accomplishments. Make a list of the skills and experiences you have already gained and identify any gaps that need to be filled. This process helps in recognizing your strengths while also clarifying the areas where you need to grow. From there, develop a structured action plan to achieve your goals. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps with specific deadlines. Whether it’s completing an online course, updating your LinkedIn profile, or applying for internships, a well-organized approach will make your progress more tangible and achievable.

  2. Craft and refine professional documents
    Your professional documents—resume, cover letter, personal statement, and portfolio (if applicable)—play a crucial role in making a strong impression on potential employers, graduate programs, or research advisors. Since academic-year schedules can be hectic, summer provides a perfect opportunity to fine-tune these essential documents. Regardless of the type of document, an effective professional statement typically includes three key components:

    Professional Intention: Clearly articulate your long-term goals and aspirations. Your statement does not need to fit into a narrow niche but should convey a broader sense of direction. For example, you might express an interest in problem-solving through research, advocating for healthcare equity, or exploring sustainable solutions for environmental challenges.

    Reflection: Highlight your experiences and how they have shaped your interests. This could include coursework, internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that have contributed to your skills and professional growth.

    Connection: Bridge the gap between your intentions and your experiences. How do your past experiences support your future aspirations? This connection makes your narrative compelling and cohesive.

    Use this time to get feedback from mentors, career advisors, or peers on your resume and personal statements. Platforms like Viking Connect (for Lawrence students) or Handshake can also provide templates and guidance on structuring these documents effectively.

  3. Talk to people in the field you’re interested in
    Beyond self-reflection and document refinement, engaging with professionals is one of the most effective ways to grow in your field. Conversations with experienced individuals can offer insights into industry trends, career paths, and strategies for success.

Here are a few ways to expand your professional network:

  • Leverage Online Networking Platforms: Platforms like Viking Connect allow Lawrence students to connect with alumni who have experience in a variety of careers. Reaching out to alumni can provide valuable guidance, insider knowledge, and even potential mentorship opportunities.
  • Attend Career Fairs & Networking Events: Check Handshake for upcoming career fairs, professional panels, and industry-specific events. These gatherings allow you to meet recruiters, explore job openings, and gain advice on career planning.
  • Request Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals whose careers interest you and ask if they would be open to a brief chat about their journey and insights. Many professionals are happy to share advice, and these conversations can open doors to potential opportunities.
  • Engage in Online Communities & Webinars: Many industries host webinars, virtual meetups, and LinkedIn discussions. Participating in these events can help you stay informed about new developments and trends in your field.

Building a strong network not only increases your job prospects but also provides inspiration, support, and direction as you navigate your career path.

Final Thoughts: Make This Summer Count

Summer is a unique period that allows for both relaxation and meaningful growth. By taking the time to organize your goals, refine your professional documents, and actively engage with industry professionals, you set yourself up for a stronger and more confident career journey.

Don’t wait until graduation to start preparing for your future—every small step you take now contributes to your long-term success. Whether it’s through self-improvement, networking, or skill-building, making the most of your summer can set you apart and help you achieve your career aspirations.

Librarians

When you think of Librarians, an image of an old woman who barks orders at children and hates fun might come to mind. Actually, it is quite the opposite, as librarians can be anyone of any age with a drive of, as US News puts it, “intellectual exploration”. If you have a lifelong love of learning and want to make a living off of that, the position of librarian is definitely up your alley.

It is important to know that becoming a librarian is not easy.  In addition to an undergraduate degree, librarians are required to get an MLS (or Master in Library Sciences) from an American Library Association-accredited program.  Most MLS programs are two years in length. 

On the job, librarians do much more than just stock bookshelves and order books. Librarians connect people to information and technology, they are knowledgeable in website creation, social media management, and they digitally archive works such as art and literature. As mentioned earlier, being a librarian also involves a lifelong love of learning, and there is a lot of learning on the job involved.  Librarians should also enjoy working with people, as in the end, being a librarian is a service job.

Being a librarian also comes with a lot of flexibility and freedom, where you can choose what projects you want to start. Laura Robinson, the librarian at Clark University, told US News that “As a librarian for over 20 years my day-to-day work changes on a regular basis,” and the job refuses to get old.

There are many places to work as a librarian. There are libraries everywhere, from public and academic institutions, to hospitals, businesses, and museums. There are also many different requirements to work as a librarian.  In Idaho, Librarians don’t need state certification, while in Connecticut, you need an MLS to work in any city with more than five-thousand people, and in communities with less than five-thousand people, as long as you have some “demonstrable training in library science”, you are able to become a librarian. EveryLibraryInstitute.org has a great article featuring states with different stipulations to become and stay a librarian.

Being a librarian is a position with plenty of rules to follow, but once you follow them, you can turn the role entirely into your own. It’s a job that twists and turns so often, it’s hard to be bored and to lose interest, and you yourself control those twists and turns. If you have interest in becoming a librarian, the best way to get involved is to work right here at the Lawrence library, either as a shelver or at the circulation desk. That way, you can network and get some good library experience that might be useful towards your certification!

https://www.ala.org/educationcareers/libcareers/become

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-librarian

https://www.everylibraryinstitute.org/requirements_to_become_a_librarian_by_state

https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/articles/what-library-science-is-and-how-to-become-a-librarian

Spencer R. Brown is a sophomore experiencing their first year at Lawrence University, with a major in Government. They work as a Marketing and Media Assistant in the Career Center and creates content for students in both Communication, Journalism & Written Arts (#CJW) and Government, Law & International Relations (#GLI) career communities. A writer and animator by trade, Spencer is fascinated in finding ways to make digesting information entertaining. Feel free to connect with them on LinkedIn here!