Acing the college summer job search

Six things for college students to consider when looking for a summer job

Are you going home for the summer or staying around campus? 
Whether you're spending summer break in your hometown or staying at school, an online job search will get you the fastest results when looking for summer jobs while in college - and is much easier than checking out the classifieds of multiple newspapers.

Will you be taking May session or summer session classes? 
Having school commitments will impact your availability. Also, consider travel time when figuring out what hours you can work.

Are you looking for a job you can continue part time during the school year? 
If so, make sure this is an option when you talk with potential employers. It is great if you can get year-round employment out of a summer job. This is a good way to pay for extra expenses.

What college summer jobs are available in your career field? 
Talk with your advisor, professors and other students in your major to find out what jobs are a good match with your course of study.

Are you more concerned with how much a job pays or gaining experience in your career field? 
The best job would be one that pays well and gives you experience, but you may not be able to find one that provides both. Decide ahead of time which is more important so you can clearly evaluate your options.

Do you need a set weekly schedule or one that is flexible? 
Typically office jobs offer a 9 to 5, Monday through Friday work week, whereas retail jobs and restaurant jobs offer shifts throughout the week and schedules that are often set only a week in advance.