It's no secret: Being a Polytechnique student is demanding! It can be really challenging to look for an internship or job while staying focused on your studies. You've got a well-deserved winter break coming up. Here are two strategies for making the most of the downtime: the baby-steps method and the total rest approach.

The baby-steps method

Are you concerned that you haven't dedicated as much time as you'd hoped to career development? Has your coursework made it hard for you to find time for job or internship hunting? Consider the baby-steps method! It involves breaking down tasks into smaller steps that you can do every week. The holiday season is a great time to get started with this method and create a plan for the coming weeks and months. Here are some of the things you can do during winter break:

• Find interesting internship or job opportunities by looking at current and past postings on LaRuche, LinkedIn or other job sites.
• Take note of promising employers so that you can contact them at a later date.
• Save copies of internship and job postings as examples that you can refer to later. When you're ready to send unsolicited applications, you'll be able to put together a résumé that aligns with these employers' needs.
• Analyze the postings to pinpoint which aspects interest you the most. This will give you something specific to mention in future cover letters or job interviews.
• Practice introducing yourself professionally in front of a mirror, using an AI tool or at social events. You should be able to describe your qualifications and the type of internship or job you're looking for.
• Check the Moodle page called "Stratégies de recherche d’emploi (ou de stage)" for helpful information on: résumés, cover letters, interviews, networking, elevator pitches and more. That way you'll be ready to meet with employers and apply for jobs starting in January.

The total rest approach

Depending on where you're at, it might be a good idea to completely unplug over the holidays. If you're feeling drained after the fall term or if you've already made good progress on your internship or job hunting, consider giving yourself permission to do nothing but rest. Did you know that recharging your batteries can be a solid investment in your future by setting you up for success? Here's what you stand to gain from resting up:

• Improved mood, and decreased stress and anxiety
• Better attention span and creativity
• Stronger family and social ties, which are key to your overall wellbeing
• More clarity on your goals and the types of opportunities you're interested in
• Better ability to efficiently prepare for job interviews

Take a balanced approach

Not sure whether you should opt for the baby-steps method or complete rest? Sometimes the best  strategy is to combine both approaches. Give yourself a schedule with tasks broken down into small steps, and make sure you include periods of rest. It's reassuring to have a realistic plan that you can stick to, even when your academic workload ramps up again.