What's a film student to do with their summer?

Even as film students that are lucky enough to love what we're doing in school, we all dream of one season: Summer. As Phineas and Ferb taught us, "There's 104 days of summer vacation and school comes along just to end it. So the annual problem of our generation is finding a good way to spend it."

Essentially, we all want to use our summer to be productive in some way.

If you're having trouble figuring out what to do with your summer, here's a list of things that could help you advance your film career. Or, at the very least, lead to some fun this season doing something you love.

Look for work

This is one of the most obvious choices. Many people take the free time that summer gives as an opportunity to make some extra money. Since productions often take place during the summer due to the consistent weather, this is a great time to look for jobs as a Production Assistant.

If you're having trouble finding PA work, try finding other film-related work. I've applied to be an extra on a few sets despite not being an actress by trade. Participating in these opportunities gets your face and name out there and shows that you are dedicated to entering the film industry.

You can also look for semi-film-related jobs. I spent the first month of this summer working as a graduation photographer, which helped me get used to long working hours in the heat while also getting practice with a camera.

Don't sleep on unpaid work in the form of internships or other opportunities that don't come with a paycheck. These jobs can help you get experience and show your passion for your craft. However, always know what is too much work for no pay. Don't let anyone take advantage of your passion.

Attend local film events

Summer is a great time to connect with other filmmakers. As a Kansas City resident, I've been attending meetings with the Independent Filmmakers Coalition of Kansas City (IFCKC) and KC Screenwriters. Turns out, club participation doesn't have to end when you leave school! Groups like these can help you network (A.K.A., make friends), learn new skills, and get involved. Cultivating community is not only important for your local film industry, but also for your well-being.

While Facebook seems like social media for your grandma, it's actually a great place to start looking for local groups. After you create an account, search for film groups by typing in your city followed by "film".

Summer's also a great time to attend film festivals. These are great networking opportunities as well as great ways to experience films you probably wouldn't see otherwise.

Start creating!

Still struggling to find production work? Well, it's time to get your hands dirty and create your own!

With the advent of the cellphone, almost anyone has the tools to shoot and edit a film for free. And as a film student, you have the advantage of actually having the skillset necessary to make something great. You probably spent the school year learning how to make films and making friends. Now's the time to use what you've gained to create something cool. (Hint: if someone you know is still enrolled in summer classes, you may be able to access your department's equipment during this time).

Not quite ready to make a film? Don't worry, there's other things you can create over the summer. If you're a writer, get started on that screenplay idea you've been toying with for months. Or get started on that music video you've had in your head for years.

You can also start creating for social media. Creating YouTube videos or writing for Substack can help you get your smaller ideas out there without the pressure of holding a crew together.

Learn something new

Just because it's summer break doesn't mean you can't learn anything!

Maybe you'll take an extra class so you'll have more free time during the school year. But remember, school isn't the only place where you can learn something.

You can always check out books on film and many other topics from your local library. You don't need to take a class on Adobe Lightroom when a book on it is available for free.

While we're on the topic of reading, many screenplays are available online on websites like ScriptSlug. You can always learn something from reading an iconic script, even if you're not a writer.

If you're feeling slightly less academic, a movie marathon can also be fun while still teaching you something. Now might be the perfect time to finish Hitchcock or Kubrick's filmographies. Try writing about patterns you notice from these auteurs. Or watch a bunch of bad movies and try to rewrite them to be passable. Or you could practice your reviewing skills. The sky's really the limit here!

Just Relax

Yes, this is counterintuitive. How could doing nothing possibly advance your career?

Well, it can't, at least, not in a tangible way. However, it's important to give yourself time to rest. Remember: you can't burn bright if you burn out.

Summer's a time to take time for yourself. Knit that perfect sweater. Read that book that's been on your read list. Go swimming or take a walk in the park. Beat Minecraft like your childhood self always wanted to.

Rest also gives you time to think. This thinking time will help you come up with ideas that will be perfect for when you're ready to get back into filmmaking.

Whatever you choose to do with your summer, just make sure you have fun. As someone who just finished up her junior year of college, I'm coming to the realization that this is my last true summer vacation. And while I have the inclination to be as productive as possible, I always give myself time to relax. This is not time wasted; it's time refilling my cup. It's time that will be rewarded when I find myself truly working in film.

So, as we all used to write in acquaintances' yearbooks: H.A.G.S. (Have a Great Summer). Even if you don't do anything in film, remember that it'll always be waiting for you when you return to school in the fall!