End of the line, everybody off the student experience train. Choo choo.

So we've finally made it, the exams are over, the dissertations are in, and already the student population has decreased dramatically. Just from working in the Students' Union it is obvious just how many students have gone home for summer. I don't think I've seen a real student in the building all day, although maybe that's because the builders have blocked off most entrances and no one can work out how to get in.

For some the long summer holidays are ahead of you, for others the student life is officially over and the summer will involve months of job hunting and interning. Don't forget that you can still use the Careers Service for a year after you graduate. Given the current job climate this might well be a good time to get stuck in there and speak to a careers advisor and do some serious reading in their library. If you are coming back to study in Sheffield in September make sure you make full usage of your summer holidays, visit friends, chill out and pack out your CV with volunteering experience. You'll be thankful that you did it when you come to the end of your degree. Believe me I know plenty of final year students who are kicking themselves for not taking up internship and volunteering opportunities when they had the chance.

For those of you staying here over the summer, the Union is still open in parts. The Interval will be open throughout the Summer, however hours are reduced. In addition the Activities department have come up with a wealth of volunteering activities for Post graduate students to get involved in. And don't forget your new student officer team will be here for you throughout the summer to discuss important issues with.

If you are struggling over the holidays there are people you can talk to. It's perfectly ok to seek out help over the summer and the University support services are well aware that a students' life at home can be complex. So whether it's moving house, finding a job, suffering bereavement or even divorce don't be afraid to get in contact with the Union Welfare Officer and the University support service, found at http://www.shef.ac.uk/ssid/ . The Students' Union Advioce Centre will also be open 9-4pm, Mon-Fri throughout the holidays. They can offer you advice on international issues, housing trouble and finances. So if you aren't sure how you are going to financially support yourself next term, or if there are cracks appearing in your wonderful new house, don't hesitate to drop in arrange an appointment with an advisor.

I hope you have a fantastic summer whatever you are doing.

Good luck