Four More Weeks!!

I would just like to take this opportunity to say that there are four more weeks of classes, something that I am extremely happy about. This semester has been my hardest and most stressful by far. What was I thinking when I registered for classes last fall? Since Spring break I have been counting down every day and can't wait to finish. At a family Easter dinner last weekend, my cousin and I were commiserating about our stress and how much every college student hates the end of the semester.

So...what are some ways you can ease your stress and get through these last few weeks without having a mental break down? Here are a few suggestions:

-Plan out these last few weeks, make weekly goals and make sure that all deadlines and due dates are clear

-Pick one or two projects or papers and get them done now, waiting until the last minute to finish everything at once is too stressful

-Add some fun time: don't get so caught up with work that you forget to leave a little time for fun and relaxation

-Sleep: the worst idea ever invented was to use your sleep time to get work done. Try to keep your regular sleep schedule, this will help you stay healthy and more alert so you are more productive during the day. So, don't pull too many overnight study sessions at the library.

-Exercise: Believe it or not exercise is a huge stress reliever. It helps you think more clearly and will make your "to do" list seem not so overwhelming.

So, good luck getting through the next four weeks. Soon enough, we will all be done and be able to start enjoying our summer plans!

Albany Semester Program

As I'm sure you already know, internships are a common theme in my posts. For this particular post I'm going to give you an overview of the Albany Semester Program-one of the internships offered through Brockport's Career Services Office.

You must be at least a second-semester sophomore to participate, and must also have a minimum GPA of 2.00. This internship can take place during the fall, winter, spring, or summer semesters. The program is based in Albany however you can complete it in local offices as well. The Albany Semester Program is a state government internship, so students interested in government and politics should apply! You can earn 15 credits if completed during the fall or spring semesters and 12 credits if completed during the summer months. Some of these internships are paid!--which is not common.

Some past students who have participated in the Albany Semester Program interned at the DMV in Albany, the local office for the Attorney General, and local school districts.

There is a program fee. A breakdown of cost, requirements, overview, and a course syllabus can be found here:
http://www.brockport.edu/career/aoverview.htm

Be "The Jack of All Trades"

Here is a lesson I have learned this year...In today's changing world you can't be skilled in just one area. More and more employers want to hire people who have been exposed to a broad range of things and who are familiar and skilled in different fields.

Another thing I have learned (and I'm not thrilled about this one) is that having strong computer skills adds A LOT to your resume. I like my phone, iPod, and having internet access whenever I want it, but I don't like technology. I don't have the patience and often get frustrated trying to learn how to use new technologies. But, through my applying for many many internships, I noticed that almost all of the employers wanted interns who were familiar with many computer programs as well as web design and internet research.

So, I would suggest branching out when chosing your college courses. Take a computer or web design course to learn the basics. It also might be useful to take some elective course outside of your major or minor. Having a wide range of knowledge will benefit you in the future!