Set Flexible Goals!

Goal setting is a great first step to ensuring that you reach your desired outcomes. However, this may involve a bit more effort than a to do list item that can be checked off quickly. Goals should be specific so that they are achievable but allow room for flexibility. 

A great way to make sure your goals are flexible is to break them down step-by-step which will enable you to adjust where needed. If for example, your goal is to secure an internship this summer, the following steps may be helpful: 

1. Research interesting internship opportunities - consider factors like the length of the internship, location preferences, type of skills you would  be keen on developing, etc.

2. Join clubs or student groups - now you have an idea of the type of internship you want to secure, develop new skills and meet new people which will benefit you in securing a summer position.

3. Create a targeted resume and cover letter for that position - set mini goals for yourself while working on your documents to allow you to stay on task. Don’t forget to Have your resume reviewed - book an appointment with you Work Experience Coordinator (WEC) to refine your document

4. Apply for a range of internship opportunities - ensure that you follow all application guidelines and meet application deadlines. Be flexible on the type of position that you apply to and may secure, this provides you with more opportunities to apply to.  

5. Prepare in advance for potential interviews - don’t wait until you get a call to book an interview - get help from your WEC or the Career Centre and practice your interview skills early.  

Prepare to be flexible. If you follow through on all of the steps but don’t end up securing your dream internship right away, don’t lose your momentum! There’s always room to go back, revise your approach to each step and ultimately achieve your goal. Once you accomplish what you set out to do, you’ll take pride in knowing that you’re a creative problem solver and that you achieved your initial goal, even if the steps ended up differently than when you started.