How to Get a Summer Job in College (5 Tips)

The spring semester tends to fly by, and before you know it, summer is just around the corner. Before you wrap up the school year, it’s the perfect time to start planning how you’ll spend your summer break. While finding a job or side hustle can be tough for some college students, a little preparation can make the process much smoother. Here’s how to get a summer job in college.

1. Determine your goals for the position

There are many summer job options for college students, but finding the right one is about matching the position to your goals. Ask yourself what your main priority is this summer. Do you want to gain experience in your major, make as much money as possible, or enjoy a fun and low-stress work environment? Knowing your “why” can help you decide which is the best option. 

If your goal is to gain experience in your field, start by looking for a paid internship. Internships give you hands-on learning and help you get a feel for whether a company or type of work might be a good match after graduation. You could also look at entry-level jobs related to your major. For example, if you’re studying nursing, becoming a certified nursing assistant or working as a food aid could be a great stepping stone.

On the other hand, if you’re hoping to relax while still earning money, you can consider a “fun” position. Serving as a summer camp counselor, being a guide for a local tourist attraction, working in retail at a nearby shopping center, or trying something outside your major are good options for high school or college students. You never know; you might end up discovering something new that you really enjoy!

2. Start a broad summer job search

There are many different ways you can make money over the summer; you just have to know where to look. A good place to start is your college’s job board, which is often emailed to students weekly. These listings can help you see what’s available and if any jobs align with your plans for your career after college.

You can also find opportunities through word of mouth. Friends, family, and mentors may know reputable companies looking for interns or summer help. Networking events and career fairs on campus can also help you get noticed by professionals in your field. If you enjoyed a previous summer experience, you could always reach out to your former employer to see if they're hiring again. 

Alternatively, you could create your own opportunity through freelancing, contacting small businesses in your town, or starting a side hustle you’re passionate about. If you’re struggling to find something, contact your school’s career services office. They can help you search for openings on job sites, prepare your applications, and feel confident when accepting a job offer.

3. Narrow down your list

Once you know the kind of summer job you want, you should focus your search. There will likely be a lot of opportunities to sift through. Fortunately, refining your search criteria can help you find a summer job that is a better fit for you. 

Consider factors like the skills required, skills you want to build, the commute or distance to the job, whether remote work is an option, the hourly pay, the hours required, and how flexible the schedule is. Thinking through these details upfront can save you time and help you avoid jobs that aren’t a good match.

It’s also smart to start your search before the semester ends. A lot of young people will be looking for summer work at the same time, which makes the market competitive. Applying early not only increases your chances of landing the job you want, but also gives you more time to prepare, ask questions, and make a smooth transition from star student to stellar employee.

4. Take interview prep seriously

Once you have a handful of jobs you may be interested in, start updating your resume. Look for common resume mistakes, and tailor it to each position by using keywords from the job posting. Writing a customized cover letter for each application can also show recruiters you are serious and willing to put in the work for their job. 

If you’re juggling multiple interviews, do your best to schedule them on different days, so you have time to get ready. Prepare by thinking about what you need to bring, researching the companies, and practicing answers to common questions. After your interview, be sure to follow up with a thank-you note to show your appreciation and professionalism.

It is also important to keep your social media clean while applying for jobs and internships. Potential employers and recruiters from schools often review online profiles, so it is a good idea to maintain a professional online presence from high school onward.

5. Communicate your intentions

During the interview process, communication is key. Be sure to inform your employer that you’re seeking a summer position. You can also include when you can start and how many hours you’re able to work each week. 

Pay close attention to the job description details when applying. Some positions may require a longer commitment than just the summer (if it doesn’t explicitly say a seasonal or temporary employee). If you plan to work multiple jobs or have another commitment, be transparent about that as well. Employers appreciate honesty, and it can help them schedule you more effectively. 

Additionally, disclose any time off you know you’ll need, such as family vacation or orientation for school. Sharing this information early helps avoid misunderstanding. It also ensures you and your employer are on the same page from the beginning. 

Securing a full- or part-time position during the summer months can be tedious. Luckily, you can find the perfect job if you start early enough. Be sure to do your research, use your networking skills, and be as prepared as possible. This will allow you to find a summer position that not only brings in some extra cash, but also helps expand your work experience and professional growth.