High School Summer Student Job Advice

I'm trying to decide what kind of summer job I should go for as a high school student. Should I prioritize something fun, or something that will look good on college applications? Any advice would be appreciated!

When deciding on a summer job, you might consider a balance between enjoyment and relevance to your future academic or career pursuits. Having fun and enjoying your time is crucial since this can lead to more meaningful experiences, and you're more likely to stick with a job you love. If you're passionate about what you're doing, it's going to be easier to articulate that passion when talking about your experiences in the future.

However, from the perspective of college admissions, it can be beneficial to take up a job that aligns with your academic interests or future career goals. This shows commitment and gives you practical experience in your field of interest. For example, if you're thinking about studying education in college, a summer job as a tutor or a camp counselor would reinforce your commitment to that field.

Keep in mind the importance of Tiered Extracurricular Activities for college admissions. Tier 1 and 2 activities, which show leadership or significant achievement, can be particularly impactful. While most summer jobs might be considered Tier 3 or 4, with creativity and initiative, you might be able to elevate your summer job into a Tier 2 or even Tier 1 activity. For example, you might start as a staff writer at a community newspaper (likely a Tier 3 activity), then become an editor (a Tier 2 activity), and then start your own column that gains a major following (a possible Tier 1 activity).

Overall, prioritize what will make you happy and fulfilled, while keeping in mind what each choice could offer you in the long run. Enjoy your summer job and make sure it helps you grow personally and professionally.