What am I doing with my life?
I’m a freshman at UCSD with a GPA of 3.6, but I’m feeling a bit lost when it comes to my future in finance. I didn’t put much thought into internships during my first two quarters, and now I’m concerned it might be too late to find one for this summer. Do you have any tips on how I can make the most of my summer? Is it really too late to secure an internship? Where should I start my search? I’m open to any opportunity, whether it’s paid or unpaid. Am I in trouble?
One response
First of all, it’s great that you’re being proactive about your future, even though you’re only in your freshman year! A 3.6 GPA is a strong foundation. Don’t stress too much about the internship timeline; it’s definitely not too late to find one, especially for summer positions.
Here are some tips on how to spend your summer and find opportunities:
Internships: While many companies start their recruitment process early, there are still internships available, especially with smaller companies or startups where the application process may be more flexible. Websites like Handshake, LinkedIn, and Indeed are good places to start searching. You can also check out your university’s career services for listings.
Networking: Leverage your connections. Talk to professors, classmates, and anyone in your circle who might know of opportunities. Attend networking events, workshops, and job fairs, which can often lead to internship offers.
Volunteering or Part-time Work: If you can’t land an internship, consider volunteering or taking a part-time job relevant to finance. This can help you develop skills and make connections in the field.
Online Courses: Use your summer to take online courses or certifications in areas of finance that interest you. Platforms like Coursera or edX offer courses on various finance topics, which can help you narrow down your interests.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in different areas of finance for informational interviews. This can give you insight into various roles and help you make connections that might lead to future opportunities.
Stay Open-Minded: Finally, keep an open mind about what types of finance you might pursue. Exploring different roles can help you discover what you enjoy most.
You’re definitely not cooked—many students figure things out as they go along. Focus on gaining experience and learning as much as you can, and remember, it’s all part of the journey. Good luck!