Guide to your SMART Summer Plan
By following these steps, you can create a SMART plan to make your summer goals a reality. Good luck!
01
Start by identifying your specific goal
To create a SMART plan, you need to have a clear and specific goal in mind. For example, your summer goal could be to explore the field of computer science and gain a better understanding of what it entails.
02
Make your goal measurable
To measure your progress and know when you have achieved your goal, you need to establish measurable criteria. In the example, you can measure your progress by completing at least two online coding courses and participating in a computer science-related internship or job shadowing opportunity.
03
Assess the achievability of your goal
Consider whether your goal is realistic and attainable within the timeframe of the summer. In the example, you can determine that your goal is achievable because you have access to online coding courses and can reach out to local companies or organizations for internship or job shadowing opportunities.
04
Understand the relevance of your goal
Reflect on why your goal is important to you and how it aligns with your interests and aspirations. In the example, the goal is relevant because it aligns with your interest in technology and problem-solving, and it can help you determine if computer science is a field you want to pursue in the future.
06
Break down your goal into smaller action steps
To make progress towards your goal, break it down into smaller, manageable steps. In the example, three action steps could be:
- Enroll in an online coding course and complete at least two modules per week.
- Research local companies or organizations that offer computer science internships or job shadowing opportunities. Reach out to at least three of them to inquire about potential opportunities.
- Network with professionals in the computer science field through online platforms like LinkedIn or attending virtual industry events. Connect with at least two professionals and schedule informational interviews to learn more about their experiences.
05
Set a specific deadline for your goal
Establish a timeframe for achieving your goal. In the example, you can set a deadline to achieve your goal by the end of the summer, before the start of the next school year.
08
Stay committed, track progress, and make adjustments
Remember that setting a SMART goal is just the first step. Stay committed to your goal, track your progress regularly, and make adjustments to your plan as needed. This will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the summer.
07
Identify potential obstacles and develop strategies to overcome them
Consider any potential obstacles or challenges that you might face while working towards your goal. In the example, obstacles could include a lack of coding experience and knowledge, limited availability of internship or job shadowing opportunities, and balancing summer activities and commitments. Develop strategies to overcome these obstacles, such as starting with beginner-friendly coding courses, expanding your search for opportunities, and creating a schedule to prioritize and manage your time effectively.
We know this activity is a bit longer than the rest, so no question to answer for this time just press done when you've finished your SMART plan.