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We know it’s nearly the Christmas holidays, and you deserve a break. But as well as getting some well-earned rest, this is also the perfect time to start thinking about what you want to do next Summer. If some kind of internship or work placement is on the list, don’t get too comfortable in front of the fireplace. With many of the application deadlines for top placements closing in the New Year, now’s the time to make sure your name is on the shortlist.

If  you’re not sure where to start, the good news is we’re here to do the hard work for you – just call it an early Christmas present. Over the next few weeks, Naturejobs will be will be serving up advice on how to find the right placement – whether at home or abroad, tips for an attention-grabbing application, and knowing your rights when it comes to what people can and can’t ask you to do. We’ll also show you how to make the most out of your internship when the time comes around, including how to make a good impression and all-important networking.

Follow the series here on the Naturejobs blog, and if you don’t already, you can also get updates by following us on social media:

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As always, we would love to hear your thoughts and share your experiences, so keep in touch, and let us know if there’s any advice that is missing. And have a great holiday!