By Joie N. Marhefka, Ph.D.
As I write this column, the 4th of July holiday is approaching. Summer definitely provides some much-needed downtime for me, as our students are doing internships, and I’m not teaching any other classes. I use some of this time to get caught up on administrative tasks and other work, but I also like to engage in other activities that can improve my technical skills, soft skills, work-life balance and overall health. In this column, I will share some ideas for combining summer fun with sharpening skills.
Summer is a great time to take a class to improve soft skills, learn something interesting or prepare for a job search. Our local library offers a variety of courses on resume writing and job searching, which would benefit students as well as anyone looking for a career change. The local community colleges offer courses in writing and public speaking. Classes on computer programming languages and on artificial intelligence, as well as some other technical topics, are available through the community college and the library.
Summer is also a great time to catch up on some reading and podcasts. I like to create a book list during the year of things I hope to read over the summer. In addition to some fun reading, I try to include books on topics that will help me in my career, such as leadership and technology. A few books on my current list are “Teaching with AI,” “Leading in a Changing World,” “Remember Who You Are” and “Let the Story do the Work.” (I’d love to hear what’s on your list). I also enjoy listening to podcasts. Bearded Biomed is one of my favorites, which is HTM focused. TechNation also has a great list of HTM related podcasts https://1technation.com/category/podcasts/.
Summer is also a great time to attend a conference. I recently attended AAMI eXchange, where I learned about the latest trends and technologies in HTM and had the opportunity to network with other professionals in the field. HTM Mixers are also typically held over the summer. If you don’t have time or funding to attend a conference, many HTM-related webinars are available, and these great opportunities to hear about issues affecting HTM.
Volunteering is another great way to spend some free time over the summer months. Volunteering time in your community is a great way to give back. It also provides an opportunity to improve soft skills such as communication, teamwork and leadership. I spend a week each summer volunteering at a camp for children affected by cancer, run by Cancer Bridges. It feels good to help others, and I believe that it does help me to be better at my job. Plenty of volunteer opportunities are available through food banks, churches and other community organizations.
Finally, summer can be a good time to slow down a bit and focus on improving health and work-life balance. Taking a walk outside is a simple way to improve physical fitness that can benefit mental health. A yoga class or other fitness classes can be a great way to clear your mind while improving your health. Community colleges, gyms and yoga studios offer plenty of options.
I hope you all had a wonderful summer and perhaps consider some of these activities in summer’s last days (or next summer)!
