Summer jobs for students: How many hours is too many?

I'm looking to work a part-time job over the summer. For those who have done it, how many hours a week did you work? Did it still allow time for relaxation and other activities?

Determining how many hours to work in a part-time job over the summer can vary greatly depending on the individual, your other commitments and your personal goals.

Typically, students might seek to work anywhere from 15 to 40 hours per week. When deciding, some important factors to consider include:

1. The nature of the job: In some roles, such as in retail or restaurant work, shifts might be longer but you might work fewer days in the week. Other jobs might require shorter but more frequent shifts. Consider energy expenditure, the role’s demands, and the skills you might be gaining.

2. Your personal commitments: If you're aiming to spend time honing a hobby, catching up with friends, or focusing on academic or co-curricular pursuits alongside the job, then you might want to work fewer hours.

3. Goals for the job: Are you saving up for something specific, needing to gain work experience, or simply seeking to keep busy? Those working towards a specific monetary goal might opt to work more hours, while those using the job as a learning experience might balance it with other activities for broader summer experience.

It's crucial to maintain balance. While it's beneficial to gain work experience and make money, you don't want to burn out or not leave time for relaxation, pursuing other interests or simple summer fun.

As a reference point, under the Fair Labor Standards Act in the U.S, 14 and 15-year olds are limited to 18 hours of work per week in the school year and 40 hours per week while school is out. Those 16 and older have no specific limitations. It's crucial to check local labor laws, though, as they can vary.

Remember, it's okay to start with a certain number of hours and then adjust as needed. Open communication with the employer is key in this regard. You want to ensure the job is a positive experience and contributes to your personal growth, not hinder it.