Career | Tips to Find Great Summer Jobs for College Stu
There are many benefits to having a summer job when you are a college student. Summer offers a stretch of several months during which you can explore interests, make extra money and expand your circle of friends.
How to Decide Which Type of Summer Job You Want
Whether you stay in town for the summer or move back home for a few months, it's important to carefully consider your priorities when searching the available jobs for college students.
- Do you need a flexible schedule to accommodate summer classes?
- Is there a particular area of interest you'd like to explore via a summer job?
- Do you have financial goals that a summer job can help you meet?
- Are you ready for a paid internship in your field of study?
First, identify the aspects of summer work that are most important to you. Then, start searching for a job in the community where you'll live.
How to Find a Summer Job
The best time to start the process of finding a job for the summer is during the early spring. You'll have a wider selection if you start early. Searching online job boards is smart, but remember to talk with your professors, your financial aid counselor, and your friends about their recommendations as well.
LinkedIn can be a good resource for summer work. Make sure your profile is up to date with your latest areas of study. Spend some time looking through the jobs section using search terms such as "summer employment" and "paid internship."
Summer internships in your field of study may be harder to find, but it's important to discuss your goals with peers and teachers. They may have information about jobs that aren't advertised.
If your goal is to save money over the summer, look for a job that offers full-time hours with overtime. These jobs may not be in your area of study, but having extra money when school starts or getting debts paid over the summer will make the fall semester easier.
One of your best resources for a summer job is your school's career services office. Let them know about your goals. Visit in person if possible. No matter what type of summer job you get, this short season is a great time to shift focus and take a break from school.