Ah, spring is in the air! And you know what that means…it’s time to start thinking about getting a summer job to pay for next year’s college tuition. But summer is also a great time to build your skills and your resume in your chosen field of study. If you would like to do more than stash cash by taking on a summer job that will make you more marketable when you graduate, one of these options may be perfect for you.
Work for the government Regardless of your political affiliations, local, state and federal governments are always on the lookout for up-and-comers to groom. If you are interested in learning more about how government agencies really work or if you think you may want to work for a government entity after obtaining your degree, you may want to take this opportunity. Don’t want to wear a suit, but be out in nature instead? Don’t overlook the available summer jobs at the National Park Services.
Be a freelance writer Communication skills are greatly coveted by every company and in every industry. If you enjoy writing, freelance writing is a great way to build skills, make money and demonstrate your abilities to future employers, even if your major has nothing to do with writing; you don’t have to be an English major to do this job. There are many trustworthy online sites that you can search to locate real writing jobs on any topic imaginable. Another bonus is that this is a job that you can continue during the school year, since you get to control when and how often you work.
Sell your stuff If you are able to put sentimentality aside, you may find that selling your stuff could pad your bank account and give you more free time this summer. Even if you don’t have vintage or collectable items sitting around collecting dust, you could spend some time shopping flea markets, garage sales and thrift stores, pick up items for cheap and then resell them online. If are a keen wheeler-dealer with an eye for what people are obsessed with this season, you may find this is the job for you. It shows future employers that you take initiative and think outside-the-box, plus you get the cash.You could also continue doing this job during the school year since you could work when you had the time.
Be an upstart More and more college students are becoming entrepreneurs, and it has never been easier to do. If you have a computer and the Internet, you have the makings to build a business that you can sustain during the school year. Many online businesses offer passive income possibilities that would be great for a busy college student. Online businesses are usually inexpensive to start and maintain, so even if you have a depleted bank balance at the end of the school year, you could still quite possibly become an entrepreneur by fall semester. Expect to work hard, but who knows where it could lead?
Try temp agencies There are many types of temp agencies out there, and depending on your skills, interests and career goals you may be able to make money and build your resume at the same time by working for one. Or, maybe your only summer goal is to make as much money as possible. Temp agencies can be a good alternative. You can make higher than minimum wage, especially if you don’t mind working with your hands. Another plus is that if you do good work, the agency will be happy to have you back over longer school breaks…you could have a built-in job ready for you whenever you are available.
Volunteer Think you may want to work in a particular field, but aren’t sure? Before you declare your major or get too far into your studies, take the opportunity of time off in the summer to volunteer in the industry. For example, if you are considering nursing or medical school, find a local hospital where you can volunteer in a capacity that allows you to really see the inner workings of hospital life. You may not make money at it, but how much money could it potentially save you if you find out that you aren’t suited for the field?