Is summer seasonal work worthwhile for high school students?

Thinking ahead to next summer, I'm considering taking on some seasonal work. What types of jobs are good for high school students and what experiences did others have with balancing it with summer fun?

Seasonal summer work can be incredibly beneficial for high school students, not just from a practical angle of earning a little extra money, but also in terms of developing professional skills and getting a taste of the working world.

For the types of jobs that may be good for high school students, it really depends on your interests and future career aspirations. For instance, if you're interested in a particular field, try finding a summer job related to that area. This can help to affirm (or reassess) your interest and provide insights into what it's like working in that field. If you're interested in education or working with children, for example, you might consider being a summer camp counselor. Retail and food service jobs are also popular choices for students as they offer flexible hours and valuable customer service experience.

Remember, balancing a summer job with relaxation and fun is absolutely possible—and important! A huge part of summer for a high-schooler should be relaxation and recharge time. Many employers, especially those who frequently hire students, understand this and can be very flexible with your hours.

Taking on a seasonal job can also help in your college applications, showing colleges your responsibility, independence, and the diversity of your experiences. So, yes, it can be absolutely worth it from various perspectives. Examples of summer seasonal jobs available to high school students include:

1. Lifeguarding

2. Retail sales associates

3. Restaurant crew members

4. Summer camp counselor

5. Part-time positions in local businesses

6. Dog-walking or pet-sitting

Remember, each job comes with its own set of responsibilities and scheduling requirements, so it's important to find a balance that works for you.