This article is penned by a student writer affiliated with Her Campus at UCLA.
Lately, it appears that many college sophomores and juniors are actively seeking internships, pursuing career-relevant jobs, or enrolling in major-related courses for the upcoming summer. I, too, embarked on this quest, scouring platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed for a marketing internship to align with my plans of studying abroad in the summer.
Despite my efforts during the spring internship recruitment phase, I found myself without an internship offer. This outcome led me to question my choice of studying abroad, casting doubts on my future success in the marketing field post-graduation without this quarter’s internship experience. Consequently, I began exploring summer marketing programs to gain some practical exposure before the fall semester, all while holding onto my aspiration of experiencing different cultures through studying abroad.
In a moment of uncertainty, I made a resolute decision: I would pursue my study abroad aspirations, even if the program seemed less pragmatic. After much contemplation, I applied to study in Florence, Italy, where I anticipate delving into Italian marketing practices firsthand. While I have secured a spot in the program, there are instances where I ponder over whether I should have pursued a summer internship more diligently.
As the spring transitions into summer, these uncertainties linger, resonating with many college students, particularly those at institutions like UCLA, who grapple with making pragmatic choices regarding their career paths and academic pursuits. The pressure to navigate college “correctly” often overshadows the essence of exploration and self-discovery that college inherently offers. Amidst our eagerness to shape our post-graduation trajectories, we sometimes overlook the vast opportunities for personal growth and enjoyment during our formative years.
For me, prioritizing exploration and travel led me to opt for studying abroad this summer. Conversely, for others, it might entail securing an internship in their field of interest, embarking on a camping trip with friends, or contributing to a family business. Reflecting on our college experiences, we may regret focusing solely on jobs and obligations instead of embracing a holistic college journey enriched with diverse experiences.
Initially, my decision to study abroad aimed to satiate my wanderlust before succumbing to the pressures of career pursuits. However, as doubts crept in, my perspective evolved, prompting me to explore career avenues while upholding my extracurricular passions. I sought out programs with ties to marketing, envisioning a blend of academic insight and international exposure. Ultimately, the summer path you choose is subjective, but I advocate for a strategic approach that intertwines valuable career experiences with moments of joy and exploration.