After enduring three fast-paced terms, MMS students get a much-needed winter break. Most students are ready to relax, see family and friends or travel, but it’s also an excellent time to focus on the career search. Things will get hectic in the spring terms, so it makes sense to spend some time on the job search before that happens.

If you’re enrolling in the MMS program, planning to leave room for some of these career-related activities during winter break can really benefit you in the long run.

Engage with a Company

Consider trying to secure a short-term project, or even volunteer, with an organization that interests you. You’ll most likely connect with people who might lead you to new job opportunities. Simply shadowing someone at a company or taking a tour of a business you might target could also be a worthwhile task on your to-do list.

Network

A great way to expand your job search is to network with Fuqua, Duke, or your undergraduate school’s alumni. Check out Fuqua’s Alumni Directory and LinkedIn, as well as the directories of other schools with which you’re affiliated. While most people in the U.S. take a break between Christmas and New Year’s, they would have time to speak in January when they resume work.

Research

Use the Ford Library’s electronic resources and databases while you’re at home. Explore Vault to learn about industries and functions. And use OneSource to help you build a list of companies that you can explore and add to your target list.

Career Coach

Speak to a Career Coach during vacation. At least one of our coaches is available most of the winter break and would be happy to schedule a phone or Skype appointment to explore your options, discuss strategy, critique a cover letter, or practice interviewing.

Interview

Winter break is a good time to practice interviewing. Through our resource library, you can access InterviewStream which allows you to practice answering interview questions via your computer and to watch your recorded answers or share them with an MMS Career Coach to get some feedback.

The question is “What will you do over your winter break?” My suggestion is to make the most of your time, and our team will be here to help you do that.