Making the Most of Summer Break: A Strategic Guide for Politics Students
Summer break is more than just time off for students studying politics or political science—it’s a prime opportunity to invest in your growth, deepen your knowledge, and take practical steps toward a future in public life. Whether you’re aiming for a policy career, activism, civil service, or political office, how you use your summer can give you a real edge.
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Explore Beyond the Syllabus
University coursework gives you a foundation, but summer allows you to explore topics and perspectives that your curriculum might not cover. Dive into political biographies, global affairs, activist writing, or current affairs podcasts. This is your chance to broaden your worldview and critically engage with diverse political ideas.
Recommended reads and listens include:
• How Democracies Die by Levitsky & Ziblatt
• Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall
• No Is Not Enough by Naomi Klein
• Podcasts like The Rest Is Politics or Pod Save the World
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Gain Real-World Experience
Even a few weeks spent interning or volunteering in a political or advocacy setting can transform your understanding of how systems work on the ground. Many MPs, local councillors, NGOs, think tanks, and social justice organisations are open to summer help. Campaigns, in particular, offer valuable experience—fast-paced, people-driven, and full of learning moments.
Whether you’re writing policy memos, knocking on doors, or observing meetings, you’re gaining insight that textbooks can’t teach.
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Build Genuine Connections
Summer is ideal for networking without the pressure of term-time schedules. People tend to have more flexibility, making it easier to reach out for an informal conversation. Connect with alumni, professors, local politicians, or policy professionals—anyone whose journey inspires you. A short, well-written message and a coffee chat can open doors for mentorship or future opportunities.
Don’t underestimate the power of a thoughtful LinkedIn message or a follow-up email after attending a talk or seminar.
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Take Advantage of Short Courses and Events
Many organisations offer accessible online learning, youth conferences, or skills workshops during the summer. Whether it’s a crash course on climate policy, a leadership bootcamp, or a research seminar, these experiences help you build your resume—and your confidence.
Websites like Coursera, EdX, and FutureLearn offer great free or low-cost options. Look for topics like international relations, political communication, or public leadership.
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Polish Your Personal Brand
This is a great time to update your CV, refresh your LinkedIn profile, or even start a blog or Substack if you have political thoughts to share. Your online presence is often the first impression others will get—make sure it reflects your ambitions and interests. Consider how your social media, bios, and even your email signature reflect your professional identity.
If you’re active in student politics or advocacy, documenting your projects or positions in a polished way can help future employers or collaborators understand your experience.
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Strategise for the Academic Year Ahead
Use the calm of summer to reflect and plan. What do you want to accomplish next term? Whether it’s running for student union, joining a research group, or applying for a competitive internship, setting clear intentions now can help you hit the ground running in September.
Sketch out your goals, make a rough timeline, and draft any documents you might need ahead of time—personal statements, applications, or proposals.
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Final Thought
Summer may seem like downtime, but for politics students, it can be one of the most valuable seasons for growth. Whether you’re on campus, at home, or abroad, you can use these months to build skills, expand your network, and explore your political identity.
So rest and recharge—but also use this time to move forward with purpose. What you plant this summer could shape your future in public life.