Want to work on something other than your tan this summer? Use your extra time to network, take on odd jobs and advance your professional prospects. Here are five ways to boost your career.

1. Explore opportunities on Handshake

Handshake has more than 10,000 job and internship opportunities available right now. Search for roles in your desired industry, by location, by employer, by salary type and much more. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by so many options, reach out to your career counselor to talk through your top picks and figure out what’s best for you.

2. Pick up a part-time job

QuadJobs is a University partner platform that connects students to professional local and remote part-time jobs in an online marketplace. From tutoring to gardening and house painting, QuadJobs makes it easy to make money without sacrificing your summer schedule.

3. Pursue a micro-internship

If you can’t take on a full-time internship, but need more experience, consider applying for micro-internships with Parker Dewey. Sign up for paid, short-term assignments and explore career fields while building your professional portfolio. Ranging from five to 40 hours of work, micro-internships are available for all UD students, including international students approved for work authorization by OISS.

4. Schedule informational interviews with alumni

Learn more about your industry of interest by reaching out to alumni on the UD Career Acceleration Network (UD CAN). Find fellow Blue Hens working in your field on the platform and schedule an informational interview to discuss job opportunities, gain career advice and expand your network with meaningful connections. You can also apply to Blue Hen Projects, virtual experiences hosted by alumni looking specifically for UD students.

5. Connect with the Career Center

The UD Career Center is available to you virtually all summer long. Schedule an appointment with your career counselor to discuss your next steps on your professional path. Check your inbox every other Thursday at 2 p.m. for your career community newsletter to read helpful articles, submit yourself for a Student Success Story on our blog and stay updated on the latest events and opportunities. And don’t forget to follow us on social media @UDCareers on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook!