Hunt for the summer work

Summer time is right around the corner and I know I'm not the only one ready to wrap up the semester. A break is well needed, but a job is needed as well. The lovely hunt for a job can be draining from filling out a million applications to going to interview after interview. As much as I'd love to sit around all summer, watch tv, and lay out by the sun, I know that my time should be invested in working. The summer time is a perfect time to rack up some cash while you have some free time. You don't have to worry about managing your time with homework, studying, or class. While there are still a few weeks left in the semester, no better time than the present to start looking for summer positions.

First, begin with your resume. After the long semester, you should be able to update your resume a bit. Be sure to include any volunteer experiences and positions held this past semester. If you need help, the career planning office is the perfect place to go to get some tips and help on making your resume job ready.

Next, Decide whether you are looking for an internship or temporary summer gig. If you are going back home for the summer, a small job at the local grocery store are food place is a great option for temporary work. If you'd like to intern at home, get in contact with people in your area of interest. Send out emails expressing your interest in job shadowing with a mentor or family friend. Keep in mind, many internships are unpaid.

Babysitting is a great way to make a little cash on the side as well. Place an ad in the local newspaper, or bulletin board. Simply get the word out on how to contact you and your hourly rates. Be sure to include references! You can also do this if you're staying in the city of your school. Place flyers in professor's mailboxes. Many of them may need baby sitters for the summer since school will be out.

Next, Apply. Apply, apply. The most important aspect of the job search is applying for jobs. Hit up the mall, shopping centers, and restaurants. Always have a resume and pen on hand. Sometimes it's important to bring your laptop because many places require you to apply online. You can also check out job placement sites such as careerbuilder.com, snagajob.com, or Monster.com. Upload your resume and apply to the positions you qualify for. You are going to hear a lot of No's before you hear that one yes. Keep pushing and filling out applications. Someone is sure to catch the bait.

Looking for alternatives? Many employers post ads on Craigslist. Also, try looking for gigs through Craigslist. People constantly post ads needed help for a particular day like cutting grass or a simple labor. Be careful for any type of scams and remember to not share any personal information.  Another alternative would be to to use a skill to create cash. Decide on what it is you are good at and begin publicizing your rate. If you're good at organizing offer services to people for an affordable rate. Get the word out through social network and free ad sites and watch the business come in.

The most important thing is to make that money.  The summertime is not just a time to get a break from school, its also the perfect opportunity to rack up some extra cash or learn new skills. An internship, rather paid or unpaid is a great way to gain more knowledge of your field of interest. The search is hard and takes a lot of patience, but keep pushing. Remember, APPLY, APPLY, APPLY.  And apply some more!

Signed,


A Broke Student