5 Tips for Getting a Summer Job in College

Finding a summer job or side hustle can be tough for some college students, especially if they didn’t already have a job lined up before summer starts. Check out our tips for finding a summer job in college below.

1. Determine your goals for a job

You may be wondering how to find a summer job as a college student. Before finding a job, determine your goals. Think about getting experience in your major or having a fun summer opportunity. A summer job doesn’t have to be too elaborate; it can be an entry-level job that allows you to save money.

An excellent option for a summer job could be to look for a paid internship. This is a great way to gain experience in your major and have a summer job.

If you still want to gain experience in your major but are having trouble finding an internship, start thinking about potential entry-level jobs. For example, if you're going to be a nurse, become a certified nursing assistant or food aid. There are often many opportunities for entry-level positions that can focus on your major.

2. Check college job boards, previous summer jobs, or create your job

There are many different ways you can find a summer job. Most colleges post on job boards that are emailed to students weekly. This is a great way to see what jobs are available and if any of them would be the right fit for you.

Since this is a seasonal position throughout the summer months, part-time and full-time options may be available. Other options for types of jobs would be reaching out to a previous summer job or creating your own. If you are having any trouble finding summer work, reach out to your college's career services. They can offer plenty of relevant work experience for finding, applying, and accepting a job.

3. Refine and focus your job search

Once you have determined the type of summer job you want, focus on your search. Refine your search to match your location, desired salary, experience, position type, and more. That way, you can find multiple summer job opportunities.

When looking for a new job, aim to start your search before school is out. There are going to be many students in need of employment, and the market can be very competitive.

If you are still struggling to find a job after exhausting all of your resources, talk to friends and family to see if they know of any opportunities. Friends and family are a great way to make connections and network with businesses.

4. Get your resume ready and start preparing for interviews

After searching for jobs you may be interested in, you’ll want to touch up your resume and start preparing for interviews before you start to apply for summer jobs. A well-oiled resume and cover letter can show recruiters you are interested in and willing to put in the work for their job. Think of how you can prepare for your interview, like what you need to bring or how you can mentally prepare. Be sure to follow up after your interview with a thank-you note to show your appreciation towards the business.

It is also vital that you keep your social media clean while applying for jobs. Potential employers and recruiters from schools will most likely be watching, so it is a good idea to keep it clean starting from the time you’re in high school. The same goes for when you are getting ready to apply for an internship.

5. Communicate your schedule with future employers

When you are interviewing and accepting a position, be sure to inform your employer that you are available for this position in the summer. Pay close attention to the job description details when applying because not all employers are seeking temporary employees. So, unless you can commit to working there longer, be mindful.

When applying, always be specific and make your intentions for the position clear. The last thing you want is for an employer to think you will be working there full time throughout the year. Another thing to keep in mind is informing your future employer of any other jobs you may have for the summer. That way there are no scheduling conflicts.

Finding and getting a summer job can be tedious and time-consuming, but if you start searching soon enough, you can find the perfect job. Be sure to do your research, use your networking skills, and be as prepared as possible. This will allow you to find a good summer position that could be an excellent opportunity for experience.