Getting In: A College Coach Conversation Earning & Learning During Holiday Breaks; The Engineer's Guide: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Nov 20, 2025
Michelle Smoley, a college coach specializing in finance, shares the benefits of working during holiday breaks. She emphasizes how part-time jobs can enhance financial literacy and build valuable workplace skills while also improving time management and grades. Mary Sue Youn, an expert in engineering guidance, discusses the various fields within engineering and the academic preparation needed. She highlights the importance of math and core disciplines and clarifies misconceptions about engineering careers, preparing students for future success.
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Pick Jobs For Soft-Skill Growth
- Choose jobs that develop soft skills: communication, teamwork, and problem solving.
- Practice conflict resolution and professional behavior while working with diverse ages and customers.
Use Short Jobs For Career Exploration
- Use holiday jobs to test career interests by sampling industry environments and tasks.
- Start at entry levels and recognize most careers require working up from the bottom.
Where To Find Holiday Work
- Look for seasonal roles in retail, food service, hospitality, tutoring, childcare, and snow removal.
- Apply broadly—grocery, big-box, amusement parks, and hotels all hire for holidays.