Getting the Most out of Your Summer Job

Whether you've landed a summer internship at your dream company or a part-time job at a less then desirable location, it's important to make the most of your summer experiences and allow them to affect you and your future in a positive way. So keep the following in mind while working at your job this summer!

1. It Isn't Just a Summer Job:
• Your job at McDonald's may not be your ideal summer employment, but the experiences and skills you utilize in your position are something that you will be able to feature on your resume. Remember that experience using skills such as customer service and time management are crucial to many jobs and are seen as valuable to employers!
2. Stay Professional:
• Just because you are only staying there for four months doesn't mean you should become the workplace gossip or slacker. Keep your dress appropriate, practice good hygiene (even on Monday morning shifts!) and always show up to work on time. You should aim for your summer job to result in a positive relationship with your supervisor so that you can use them as a reference in your future job endeavors.
  
3.  Network With Your Co-Workers:
• Who knows! Maybe the father of one of your co-workers owns the company that you've always dreamed of working for. Let everyone around you know what you are studying and what you are interested in doing with your degree after graduation. Not only could it benefit you professionally but forming friendships with your co-workers will make the summer much more enjoyable.

It's important to not take your summer job for granted. Many students will be unable to find employment this summer so be thankful that you were able to land a job - even if its pushing grocery carts at least you'll be bringing in a paycheck.
 
And remember - if you are working a job that is primarily indoors be sure to take a chunk of time out of your day to spend outside in the fresh air! Winter will return before you know it so don't waste all that sunshine :).

Best of luck,
- Ashley, Sr. Career Assistant

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For more tips on getting the most out of your job this summer check out TalentEgg's post "How Can You Make the Most of Your Boring Summer Job?"