20 Summer Job Ideas For College Students

Hello Summer! It’s nearing that time of year again, and I think we can all agree it is much needed. But, with a nice summer break, also means a lot of free time. These three months provide the perfect opportunity to make some extra cash to stash away for the school year. All of your friends want to go on a spring break trip but you can’t afford to? Well, if you get a part-time job over the summer, you can make some cash and still have plenty of down time! Plus, it’s great experience to add to your resume. Employers like to see that you’ve been proactive even on your school breaks. If you’re having a hard time finding a job, here are some great summer job ideas for college students!

1. Coffee Shop

A coffee shop is a great place to work for the summer. There are tons of options, you could apply at Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts, or find a specialty coffee shop. You meet so many neat people working at an independent coffee shop, plus the tips don’t hurt.

2. Country Club

There are plenty of different positions at a country club. You could be a beverage cart attendant, a pool attendant, golf caddy or even a waitress. These positions can be fun, especially with all of the people you get to meet. You never know when you’ll find an influential connection either!

3. Lifeguard

Have a local pool or beach? Take a lifeguard certification class and get out there saving lives! What’s better than spending your days at the beach or by the pool? Just don’t forget your sunscreen!

4. Bartender

Everyone that has ever bartended will tell you that they make bank in tips. Drunk people love to throw cash your way… sometimes. But when they do, it’s great. It’s hard work and long nights, but well worth the money in the end.

5. Waiter/Waitress

Another tough job, but also a great payout. Again, when you encounter generous customers, your wallet will thank you. You’ll need thick skin though, working with the public can be tough. You gotta do what you gotta do. This is one of the most popular summer job ideas for college students.

6. Hostess

Don’t want to wait on people? I don’t blame you, you can also be a hostess at a restaurant and show guests to their tables.

7. Ice Cream Shop

Have a sweet tooth? You could always scoop ice cream for the summer! Although, if you do have a sweet tooth, make sure you’ve got enough willpower that you won’t eat it all…

8. A Farm

If you like to be outdoors and get your hands a little dirty… or a lot, a farm job would be the perfect summer job for you.

9. Dog Walker

Love dogs? Me too! What better way to earn money than doing something you love? Spend the day outdoors getting fresh air with your favorite little furry bundles of joy and get paid! It has been proven that dogs help humans reduce stress, and we all know college can cause a lot of that.

10. Camp Counselor

If you had a great summer camp experience as a kid, going back and working as a counselor is a great idea. Pay it forward, and get paid, by helping other kids make great memories and have a super fun summer.

11. Retail

You can almost always find a job in retail, and if you like working with people, this is perfect for you.

12. Internships

Not every single internship will pay you, but they are still a fantastic way to gain some professional experience in your field.

13. Freelance Online

Working online has become pretty popular among college students for both during school and during the summer. There are endless opportunities when it comes to online freelancing. You could write, edit, take surveys. etc.

14. Babysit

People are always looking for responsible babysitters. It can be fun too. If you enjoy kids, ask around your neighborhood and I’m sure you can find at least one family looking for a babysitter.

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15. Landscape

I’m sure you know someone with a landscaping business, and during the summer business is booming. Either that or start your own! I knew a few kids in high school who were able to start very successful landscaping businesses that actually became their full-time jobs.

16. Tutor

A lot of young students struggle with certain topics, and if you find you excel at something, you should certainly use that to your advantage. Contact your local schools to find out about tutoring opportunities.

17. Grocery Store

Grocery stores are often looking for young employees. Why? Because some positions require physical effort that you’re more likely able to handle. A ton of young people work at Grocery stores, so it won’t be the worst atmosphere. Positions range from cashiers and stock person to assistant manager.

18. House Sit

Many people schedule their vacations for the summer as their kids are out of school. If you’re stuck at home, take advantage of this and house sit for your family and friends. It’s a super easy way to make some extra cash.

19. Sell your stuff online

Familiar with eBay or Poshmark? Have some stuff lying around the house you’ve been meaning to get rid of? You can easily make some money by selling these items online.

20. Start an Etsy shop

Are you crafty? Use your skills to make some money on Etsy by selling your crafts!

There are tons of options when it comes to summer job ideas for college students. You’re bound to find one that suits your interests.