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Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Gap year after college? Here are 8 things you can actually do with it
You've crossed the finish line—college is done, your degree's in hand, and now everyone expects you to sprint into a full-time job or sign up for a postgraduate program. But what if your instincts are telling you to pause, breathe, and figure things out first? Taking a gap year after college doesn't mean falling behind—it can mean moving forward with more clarity and confidence. In a world that's changing faster than ever, a well-spent gap year isn't a detour—it's an accelerator. It gives you space to learn new skills, travel smartly, experiment with passion projects, and even question the path you thought you wanted. If you're feeling unsure about what's next—or just craving time to explore without the pressure of formal commitments—here are 8 purposeful, growth-oriented things you can actually do during a gap year that will enrich your personal and professional life. Intern across industries to explore career paths Not sure if you're meant for finance, media, policy, or entrepreneurship? A gap year gives you the freedom to intern in different sectors without the pressure of locking into one. Try a corporate internship for structure, a startup stint for creativity, or even a social impact fellowship to understand how you feel about meaningful work. Many startups and NGOs happily welcome fresh grads looking to explore and contribute—plus, you'll build a killer portfolio along the way. Work, save, and travel smart Taking a year to work part-time or freelance while traveling isn't just about ticking off destinations. It's about learning how to manage money, adapt to new cultures, and develop independence. Think teaching English abroad, working in hostels, or doing remote freelance gigs as you backpack across countries. This kind of experience not only builds soft skills but gives you stories that make your resume—and you—stand out. Pursue passion projects you never had time for Maybe you've always wanted to write a book, launch a podcast, build an app, or start a blog. Your gap year is the perfect time to turn that 'someday' project into a tangible achievement. Passion projects show initiative, creativity, and follow-through—qualities that recruiters and grad schools deeply respect. And who knows? That side project might even become your full-time gig. Get certified in skills that employers are looking for Gap years can be great for upskilling. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer certifications in areas like digital marketing, financial modeling, coding, UI/UX design, and data analysis. These are in-demand skills across industries, and earning certifications during your break can give you a serious edge over peers who only have a degree. Volunteer for a cause Volunteering during your gap year isn't just about giving back—it's about growing personally and professionally. Whether you work with children, environmental NGOs, or rural education initiatives, this kind of work teaches empathy, leadership, and communication. Plus, you'll get exposure to real-world problems that can't be understood in a classroom. Some programs even offer stipends, travel support, or accommodation—so don't rule it out for financial reasons. Work on your mental and physical wellbeing College can be draining—mentally, emotionally, and physically. A gap year can give you the breathing space to reset. Join a meditation or yoga retreat, adopt a healthier lifestyle, or take therapy seriously if you've been postponing it. Remember, no career goal is worth sacrificing your well-being. Use the time to become your most balanced self before you hit the gas pedal again. Start a small business or side hustle Always had a business idea but never enough time? This is it. Whether it's launching a digital service, selling handmade products online, or building a tutoring brand—your gap year is your low-risk zone to experiment. Even if the business doesn't go big, what you'll learn in terms of marketing, budgeting, and customer service will be invaluable. Entrepreneurship—even on a micro-scale—can teach you more than most business courses. Prepare for competitive exams or higher education abroad Gap years are commonly used to prepare for entrance exams like CAT, GRE, GMAT, UPSC, or IELTS. If you have a bigger academic goal in mind, this is the time to study deeply, build your profile, and apply with intention rather than rush into a course or job just because 'it's what everyone does.' Taking a gap year isn't about taking a break from life—it's about stepping into life with more clarity, courage, and purpose. Whether you use it to travel, learn, work, heal, or hustle, what matters is that it reflects you —your goals, your pace, your direction. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Forbes
4 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
How To Future-Proof Your Career At Age 45 And Stay Competitive
Mid-career professionals are embracing upskilling and digital tools to stay relevant in today's ... More digital workforce. Your forties arrive faster than expected. One moment, you're the rising voice in the room; the next, you're planning for retirement while navigating a workplace that increasingly amplifies the perspectives of recent graduates. If you're 45 and questioning how to keep up in a job market that seems to shift by the minute, you're not the only one. What worked in your 30s may now feel outdated. On the positive side, your career isn't winding down; it's evolving. The employment rate for the 45-54 age group is consistently high, reflecting a large and stable segment of the workforce, according to Statista. However, unemployed individuals 45 and older face ageism. You must be intentional about staying visible and maintaining their value. Staying relevant requires an ongoing strategy that evolves with your industry, not against it. By age 45, many professionals face growing pressure to adapt to digital transformation and generational shifts in the workplace. According to the Harvard Business Review, age-diverse teams lead to stronger innovation and performance. But experience alone won't keep you competitive. Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning and edX offer short, accessible certifications specifically designed for mid-career professionals. A career pivot doesn't require starting from scratch; it requires a strategic rebrand. Update your LinkedIn profile with a clear headline that aligns with your future goals, not just past roles. Share posts or insights that position you as a thought leader. Use AI tools like Resume Worded or Teal HQ to audit your LinkedIn for keyword strength and tone. Staying competitive at 45 means combining experience with adaptability, balancing what you've ... More mastered with a willingness to grow. Instead of just aiming higher on the corporate ladder, seek roles that flex your expertise while helping you grow. These include: If you've considered launching a business, your mid-40s are the best time to do it. MIT Sloan found that entrepreneurs aged 40-60 statistically build more sustainable companies than younger founders. Offer mentorship while remaining open to new approaches. Reverse mentoring is a powerful way to stay agile and informed across generations. Future-proofing your career is a continuous process. The mindset shift involves replacing 'I've done this before' with 'What can I learn next?' Chasing every trend is exhausting; you'll burn yourself out. Staying aligned with what the future of work in your sector demands focus. Stay adaptable, not anchored. The job market may be changing, but your ability to adapt gives you a distinct edge. Make your move before it passes you by; step into it with intention. The professionals who thrive at 45 and beyond are boldly building what's next.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
6 productive things students can do over school break
School breaks are often seen as a time to unwind—and rightly so. After weeks or months of assignments, exams, and long nights, taking a breather is essential. But in between the Netflix binges and late mornings, breaks also offer a rare chance to get ahead without the usual pressures of school life. Being productive doesn't mean filling every minute with work. Instead, it's about using part of your free time to invest in yourself—your goals, your future, or even your peace of mind. Here are six things you can do over break that balance rest with meaningful growth. Update your resume or portfolio Whether you're preparing your college applications or planning for internships after school ends, your resume is often the first impression you make. A school break is the perfect time to refresh it. Add any new experience you've gained, such as campus projects, volunteer work, or academic achievements. If you're in a creative or tech field, consider updating your portfolio as well—organise your best work, clean up your layout, and make it presentable for future opportunities. Even if you're not actively applying yet, having an updated resume on hand saves time and reduces stress when deadlines come around. Learn a new skill Short online courses are ideal during breaks. They're often self-paced, and you can dip in and out as your schedule allows. Whether it's learning Excel, coding, public speaking, graphic design, or even budgeting—small skills can compound over time. Platforms like Coursera, Skillshare, LinkedIn Learning, and even YouTube offer free or affordable options. Choose something that genuinely interests you or aligns with your long-term goals. Bonus: You can add these completed courses to your LinkedIn profile or resume. Shadow a professional or volunteer locally Breaks are a great time to test-drive career interests. Shadowing a professional in a field you're curious about can offer clarity you won't get from textbooks or career websites. Even a day or two can give you insight into whether a path is right for you. If shadowing isn't possible, volunteering is another valuable way to gain experience and give back. Many nonprofits and community groups welcome extra help during school holidays, and volunteering can also expand your network and build soft skills like teamwork and communication. Declutter and organise your digital life It's not glamorous, but organising your digital space can save you serious time later. Use your break to clean up your desktop, sort files into folders, delete unused apps, and back up important documents. Go through your inbox and unsubscribe from newsletters you never read. Organise your notes from last semester so they're easy to access for future reference or finals. You'll start the next term with a clearer mind and a more efficient setup. Read something out of academic syllabus Academic reading is often fast and functional—just enough to prep for an exam or finish a paper. During your break, try reading something for yourself. It doesn't have to be a classic or a self-help bestseller (unless that's your thing). Fiction, memoir, essays, long-form journalism—anything that expands your worldview or simply offers a good story can be mentally refreshing. Reading outside of assignments improves critical thinking and writing skills almost by accident. Plus, it's one of the few productive things that also feels like a true break. Reflect and plan for the next term School breaks are the ideal time to check in with yourself. What worked well last semester? What didn't? Are your current habits helping or holding you back? Take some time to journal or think through your academic and personal goals. If you're feeling ambitious, you can map out major deadlines for the next term, organise your calendar, or set a few small goals—like joining a campus club, applying for scholarships, or taking more regular study breaks. Even a loose plan can help you feel more in control when classes resume. Productivity doesn't have to mean hustle. Using your break to grow in small, intentional ways can make a big difference—without ruining the restful spirit of vacation. With a little planning, you can return to school refreshed and more prepared than ever. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Forbes
5 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
6 Tips For Moms Returning To Work After A Career Break
Returning to corporate work after a career break to raise children is a major life pivot. Whether you've been home for one year, five or more than a decade, the transition back into the workforce comes with both challenges and opportunities. According to a FlexJobs survey, 70 percent of women who off-ramped their careers after having kids said it was difficult to reenter the workforce. For professional moms, the stakes can feel high—navigating expectations, explaining resume gaps and adjusting to changes in workplace culture and technology. Before updating your resume or applying to jobs, take stock of your current skills. What software are you comfortable using? What industry knowledge do you still have, and what needs refreshing? You'll also want to reflect on the transferable skills you've developed while managing a household or raising kids: time management, conflict resolution, multitasking, project coordination, budgeting—these are all assets in the workplace. If you've been away for just a year, your skills are likely still current. Focus on highlighting relevant experience and demonstrating continued interest in your field. For breaks of five years or more, consider identifying skill gaps and creating a plan to address them through self-directed learning or short-term courses. Free or low-cost platforms like Coursera, Udemy or LinkedIn Learning offer targeted refreshers in everything from Excel and Salesforce to data analytics and digital marketing. Even reading industry blogs or listening to sector-specific podcasts can help you re-enter the conversation with confidence. Networking is often the biggest hurdle after a long break, but it's also a valuable tool for re-entering the workforce. Reach out to former colleagues, managers or industry peers—even if it feels awkward at first. Let them know you're planning your return and ask for a short call or coffee to catch up. Don't be limited in what communities you consider, either. School groups, local business associations and alumni networks can offer surprising connections and warm introductions. As a former HR leader at Google and Grammarly, Claire Campion shared during an email interview that she has supported many moms returning to the corporate world after extended career breaks or maternity leave. 'Start by researching how your industry has changed during your time away. Talk to friends or former colleagues to get a real sense of what working life is like now, including the pace, expectations and economic landscape. In fast-moving industries like tech, a lot can shift in five years. From there, reflect on whether you want to return to your exact former role or explore an adjacent one that better suits your interests at this stage.' The way you talk about your time away matters. Whether you took a year out of the workplace for parental leave or a decade to raise a family, be honest—but frame it with confidence and clarity. Instead of apologizing for the gap, briefly explain the decision and pivot to the strengths you gained. Campion advises, 'Be honest and direct. You took time away from your career to raise your family and now that your children are older, you're ready to return to the workforce full-time. Reinforce what you bring to the table, your experience, skillset and readiness to hit the ground running. In 2025, power skills like communication, emotional intelligence and stakeholder management are just as important as technical ones, especially for more senior roles.' Rehearse your explanation in advance, so it comes across naturally in interviews and networking conversations. One example: "I stepped away from my career to raise my family, which gave me the opportunity to develop strong project management, communication and negotiation skills. I'm excited to bring that perspective back into a team setting, especially now that I've updated my skills and am ready for the next chapter." Returning to work can stir up a lot of emotion; guilt, anxiety and imposter syndrome are common companions in this journey. At ten years or more, the doubts can feel overwhelming. Know that these feelings are valid, but not necessarily accurate. You're not the same person who left the workforce, you're more experienced, more adaptable and you've been managing one of the most complex jobs there is. Find a mentor or support group of other moms who've gone through similar transitions. Talking openly about these challenges can help normalize them and build your confidence. Campion confirms that the biggest emotional roadblocks she has seen are self-doubt, loss of confidence and anxiety about re-entering a fast-paced workplace. 'Many wrestle with impostor syndrome or uncertainty about what role to return to. And then there's the very real Mom Guilt, feeling like you're not doing enough at home or at work. These emotions are common, but they're not permanent and they can be worked through with the right support.' Jackie Hershfeld, who returned to the corporate world in 2022 after ten years staying home with her three children, shared her advice for return-to-work moms in an email. 'Accept that you're going to feel like you're failing in at least one area of your life, be willing to recognize you're not and celebrate that you're doing this amazing, hard thing. Yes, you might have to meet your family at your kid's art show rather than drive all together, or maybe your laundry doesn't get folded as quickly or you have to order carry out because you're just too tired to cook and deal with dishes, but you're also taking care and loving on your family while bringing in an income. And yes, all of these examples are real examples from just this week.' Returnships—structured programs designed to help professionals re-enter the workforce after a break—are becoming more common at large companies like Amazon, Goldman Sachs and IBM. These paid programs offer training, mentorship and the chance to prove yourself with no long-term commitment upfront. Even if a company doesn't offer a formal returnship, look for job descriptions labeled 'mid-career entry,' 'career relaunch' or 'second act.' Even with jobs geared towards returning parents, don't expect it will still be easy. Hershfeld recalls, 'Job hunting whatever stage of life you're in is humbling. You're going to get rejected. You're going to think a role is an amazing fit and then it's not. You have to decide that every rejection is a redirection.' You may not land your dream job on day one. That's okay. Focus on positioning yourself for long-term success. Be strategic about the roles you apply to—look for companies with strong parental leave policies, hybrid or flexible work options and a culture that values inclusion. When Hershfeld's situation was no longer a fit at the first company she joined post-career break, she made a change. She explains, 'I have a son with dyslexia who is supported by an incredible school, I need the flexibility to be primarily remote when my husband is traveling to get him to and from school and the ability to work some non traditional hours. I made the choice to change companies to support that need.' Stay open to unexpected opportunities. A contract job, part-time role or freelance project can be a stepping stone that gets you in the door and lets you rebuild your professional muscle. Campion shares, 'Re-entering the workforce takes resilience and patience for everyone, not just moms. Be kind to yourself. You do have valuable skills and experience, it may take time to find the right fit.' Your technical and professional skills are still fresh. You'll want to focus on confidence-building and updating your resume with any relevant volunteer or short-term projects. Reassure employers that you're ready to commit and that you've kept a finger on the pulse of your industry. This is a common milestone when many moms consider returning. You may need to refresh some tools or software, but you still have a strong foundation. Consider a skills course or networking group to ease the transition and show proactive preparation. A longer break doesn't disqualify you—but it does require more intention. In many cases, employers will care about how you've spent that time. Volunteer roles, community leadership, continued education or freelance work can all serve as bridges back to your profession. Demonstrate readiness, not regret.
United News of India
21-05-2025
- Business
- United News of India
LinkedIn launches AI-powered job search
Bengaluru, May 21 (UNI) In a move aimed at transforming the way professionals search for jobs, LinkedIn on Wednesday launched an AI-powered job discovery feature to help users articulate their career aspirations in their own words—even if they are unsure of job titles or industry classifications. According to new research by LinkedIn, nearly 61 per cent of professionals in Bengaluru are open to new opportunities but struggle with knowing what to search for. The professional network's latest offering, available to Premium subscribers, leverages generative AI to understand a job seeker's intent, skills, and goals, thereby simplifying the discovery of relevant opportunities. 'At a time when 80 per cent of Indian professionals are seeking better tools to assess job fit and career potential, our new AI-powered job search aims to provide them with greater confidence and clarity,' the company said in a statement. The AI tool also enables access to new features like 'My Career Journey', a personalised upskilling path through LinkedIn Learning, and scenario-based role-play tools including interview preparation. Premium users will also benefit from Hiring Insights, which offer greater transparency into a recruiter's activity and response trends. LinkedIn's India Senior Managing Editor and Career Expert, Nirajita Banerjee, shared key suggestions for job seekers: 'Be strategic in your applications instead of mass applying. Get comfortable with AI, as it's reshaping the future of work. Embrace adaptability, build your network, and don't be afraid to explore. Today's professionals are expected to change nearly twice as many jobs as those 15 years ago.' She also recommended several free AI-related courses—such as *Job Hunting for College Grads* and *The Step-by-Step Guide to Rock Your Job Interview*—available until June 30 on LinkedIn Learning. LinkedIn, which has over 1 billion members worldwide, continues to expand its vision of creating economic opportunity for every member of the global workforce through the development of the world's first Economic Graph. UNI BDN GNK
