Want to get paid and work in your dream industry while on break – it’s ‘a thing’, it’s called a Summer Vacation Program!
With the Christmas holidays fast approaching, it’s a good time to start seeking out the opportunities that will give you a leg-up when you graduate.
What is a Summer Vacation Program?
Vacation programs are paid summer positions that are usually 3-12 weeks duration between November and February. Companies that recruit for these positions start advertising from mid-year – so if you’re interested, start looking.
Who are they for?
Vacation programs are targeted at students who are in the penultimate (second last) year at university.
Reasons for doing a Summer Vacation Program
There are plenty of reasons to look at doing a summer vacation program, including:
- Get a head-start in your career
- Obtain valuable experience and develop skills and networks while being paid
- Opportunity to work on projects individually or within groups
- Allows employers to see your talents and increase your chances of landing a job with the company when you graduate
- Use your time effectively to build your resume
- Boost your savings by earning an income during the summer
How to apply for a summer vacation program
- Search for vacation programs early in the year & put the closing dates in your calendar
- Have your resume up-to-date and ready to go
- If there are online questions prepare your answers in word first and proofread
- Have your tax file number and bank account details handy
- Don’t be afraid to be proactive and approach employers directly!
Employers are waiting for you to apply
There are plenty of opportunities with companies in many different disciplines, such as banking, science and design.
Check out the links below and find your dream program.
Accounting and Consulting: Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC, BDO, Grant Thornton, Pitcher Partners, RSM
Banking: ANZ, CBA, NAB, Westpac, Suncorp
Defence and national security: DST
Design, Engineering and Business consultation: ARUP
Energy: APA, Santos Limited
Mining: Evolution Mining, South32 Science: CSIRO
Telecommunications: Telstra
There are lots of companies out there offering vacation programs. Be proactive and go searching.
