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10 Great Job Ideas for High School or College Students

Whether you are a sophomore in high school or even a senior in college, it is always helpful to have some extra pocket change. Here are some good ideas for part-time jobs.

Tired of asking your parents for money all the time? Need some work experience to put on your resume? Why not get a job? Everyone can always use some extra cash to see a movie with some friends, buy that cute shirt at the mall, or pay for a date.

Just because you are a student doesn't mean you can't get a part-time job to make this extra dough. You may also gain some valuable skills that will help you in future careers. Try applying for a job at one of these places so you can begin the path to independence:

1. Babysitting

I have been babysitting children in my neighborhood since I was about 13 years old. I have always loved children, and these experiences I had certainly made me realize how importance responsibility is. You can also make great money from babysitting.

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If you are looking for a babysitting job, try posting your information at a local church or temple. There are also some online babysitting databases that you can submit your information to. Also, if you have younger siblings or cousins, ask their parents to advertise your name and phone number. References are always great.

Babysitting is one of the best jobs you can have while you are in school. Spending a Friday night or a few afternoons a week with children will definitely brighten your day and give you some extra cash.

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2. Bakery/Ice Cream Shop/Cafe

These types of food retailers often hire students as young as 15 or 16 years old. Not only will you get to work with delicious foods, but you will also learn a lot about customer service, preparation and maintenance. All of these skills will definitely help prepare you for other part-time jobs you may hold in the future, such as waiting tables.

If you are lucky enough to get a job with a small local shop, you will probably get a lot of hands-on experience, and may have a great relationship with the manager/owner. You may even get a recommendation for a future job from him/her. Always try to maintain good relationships with your bosses, and try to work at a place for a long period of time so you can help build your resume. Any work experience will be a helpful experience!

3. Clothing Store

When I turned 17, I was most excited about finally being able to work at a retail store. I had great experiences working at a clothing store. Not only did I get a great discount, but I met a lot of people my age who I became friends with. It was a fun environment to work in, and I got to help people pick out clothes, which I had a lot of fun with.

You will also learn to use a cash register, and pick up some great customer service skills. Don't just apply for jobs at the mall--also look into working at boutiques and local clothing stores to get more experience and responsibility. 

4. Restaurant

There are many possibilities for part-time jobs at a restaurant. You may apply for the jobs of a host/hostess or a waiter/waitress, as well as a busboy or counter-person. All of these jobs will give you the experience of working in a fast-paced environment, which will definitely come in handy in the future. You may also make some great tips. We are very lucky to have so many restaurants in our area, so take advantage and try getting a job at one of them!

5. Supermarket

Many supermarkets and drugstores such as CVS are looking to hire students who can give them a steady work schedule each week. This means you could either work afternoons (after class), or on the weekends. This is a great way to get work experience, gain customer service skills, and learn how to use a cash register. Definitely try your local supermarket if you are looking to find a job ASAP!

6. Library/Bookstore

If you enjoy a quiet, low-key atmosphere, why not apply at your local library or bookstore? If you love to read, this may be an ideal job for you. What could be better than to be surrounded by books? I personally have always loved the smell of Barnes and Noble--a mix between coffee and new books. I wouldn't mind going to work a few times a week if I got to work at such a quiet, enjoyable place! 

7. Internship

Though many internships don't pay, an internship is always a great way to further your career. Internships are a great way to see what your future career may be like, and to learn some valuable skills necessary for that job. Internships are very commonly taken during the summer, but many college students can get an internship during the academic year. Interviews for internships are also great practice for the future.

8. Camp Counselor

Though this is a summer job, believe it or not, now is the time to start applying for summer 2011.Working at a day camp is a great way to spend time with kids, play with them, and let them express their individuality. I have spend many summers working at day camps, and have had many rewarding experiences. You can also meet a lot of people your age at these day camps.

The great thing about working at these camps is that if you do a great job, you are usually asked back for the next summer. So this way there is no need to worry about finding a job every summer. I would definitely recommend working as a camp counselor for a fun summer and great experience.

9. Tutoring

If you are very passionate about a certain school subject, or are proficient in a foreign language, why not help a younger child improve his/her skills? Though this position may not always be paid, you are sure to get great experience and the pleasure of helping someone. I always think these types of experiences are the most rewarding. Working closely with a child definitely helps you improve your patience and social skills. Children are so fun to be around, and their youth and excitement are certainly contagious.

To find a tutoring position, try posting some information about you and the service you are offering, as you would for a babysitting job. Or if you are in high school, you may try getting into a tutoring program your school offers. When I was in high school, I was part of TEAM tutoring, which I really enjoyed and would recommend. 

10. Volunteer

Though this isn't a paid job, volunteering is a rewarding experience in more ways than one. Not only can you help others by volunteering, but you will also meet people and spend time partaking in fun activities at the same time. Volunteering is a great way to make someone's day a little brighter, or improve someone's life. It is easy to get involved with a volunteering organization because volunteers are always needed. Your high school/college definitely has volunteer opportunities you can get involved with, or you could personally apply at a nursing home or other facility.

Working a part-time job is a great way to gain skills and work experience, as well as make some extra money. Being a student and working is a great combination because you are using a good amount your free time in a productive way. You may even meet some people who can help you in your future!

There are many other types of jobs available for students. If you are willing to do a little research and follow through with future employers, you will have a great chance of getting hired. Always try to maintain good relationships with your employers, and try sticking with one job for a while. This is a great way to build your resume. Good luck with your applications and interviews! 

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