Vacation programs

Vacation programs offer opportunities into highly sought after graduate programs. Penultimates, 2nd to last year students, should consider applying. Success will give your resume a boost and impress employers.

Vacation programs are?

• unique summer job opportunities offered by medium to large organisations
• usually only available to penultimate (2nd to last) year students
• opportunities for an organisation to test your abilities as potential employees
• applications open in January and some run through until August.
  

Benefits:

• increases your chance of getting into a graduate program
• teaches you practical workplace skills
• helps you build professional relationships
  
• provides quality experience for your future job applications and interviews
• aids you in developing career management
  

Tips for success:

• Identify which organisations you would like to apply for early in trimester 1 and research them:
  • attend Career Fairs during July
  • pick up a Graduate Opportunities book from your nearest Careers Resource Centre
  • check out the Unigrad and specific organisation websites
• Build relationships with the vacation program recruiters
  • attend and get ready for Career Fairs, by knowing which organisations you would like to approach
  • prepare questions to ask
• Start preparing your application documents early
  • use ResumeBuilder to prepare your application
  • get expert advice from Careers and Employment
  • concentrate on quality applications rather than quantity
• Practice interviewing skills
  • use InterviewGold or book an appointment with a Career Counsellor for mock interview practice

Application process:

Be prepared for a lengthy application process. Vacation programs are competitive. The application process might require you to:

• write a cover letter, resume and application form. 
• conduct a phone interview
• conduct a face to face interview or two
• attend an assessment centre
• take tests of your skills, aptitudes and personality type
• See 'applying for jobs' for great resources

Good luck and remember to contact your nearest Careers and Employment office for assistance

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