Working & Loving It: Summer Jobs for Teens
Take Charge America Suggests 7 Fun Jobs Offering ‘Real World’ Experience
PHOENIX, Ariz. (May 8, 2006)… Summer vacation—it’s music to a teenager’s ears. Yet, it doesn’t mean teens should take command of the couch. Summer breaks offer invaluable opportunities to gain “real world” experiences that don’t have to be a drag. Mike Sullivan, director of education for Take Charge America, a non-profit credit counseling company, says summer jobs help teens learn skills needed in adulthood.
“Older teens need to start thinking about college, car maintenance and entertainment costs,” said Sullivan. “They will have a greater understanding and appreciation for the costs associated with these higher-ticket items once they learn to save their own money and build their own credit.”
Sullivan says there are many opportunities for teens beyond waiting tables and bagging groceries.
“You just need to be a little creative. Learning responsibility and making money doesn’t have to be a chore. If you pursue avenues that intrigue you, working can actually be fun.” Sullivan has seven suggestions for fun summer jobs that will help teens make money and gain valuable experience:
- Camp Counselor – As a camp counselor, teens can expand on leadership, organizational, interpersonal and conflict resolution skills. They also have the opportunity to be surrounded by extracurricular activities that they’re already interested in, such as sports, arts or science. Visit http://www.mysummers.com/ for more information on camp jobs.
- House-sitter – Teens can learn about what lies beyond high school by house-sitting. Get paid while learning how to juggle house upkeep, cleaning, cooking, mail, plants and pet care, without direct supervision.
- Tutor-sitter – Step up a babysitting business by offering tutoring along with it. Teens can create mentoring relationships with younger students and help them brush up on their math and reading skills. Be sure to plug the fact that you can help children maintain their skills and prepare for the next school year. Another bonus: teens can make their own hours, and it looks great on college applications.
- Teach Computer Skills – This generation of tech-savvy teens has grown up with computers in the home and at school, which has many adults turning to their children when they need help deciphering technical issues. Why not get paid for it? Set up a business teaching word processing, spreadsheet, PowerPoint, design and/or Internet skills.
- Referee – Sport fans can stay active while building conflict resolution and mediation skills. Summer leagues, intramural programs and recreation centers are often in need of sports officials. Try contacting a local YMCA or gym.
- Odd Job Entrepreneur – Go-getters can create a flyer with the odd jobs they’re able to perform like pool cleaning, mowing lawns, dog walking, and moving furniture. They’ll learn how to build relationships with potential clients, while acquiring time management skills.
- Explore Future Career Options – Summer breaks offer teens the opportunity to get their feet in the doors of prospective careers. Approach local businesses or stores about internships or apprenticeships. Teens can build contacts and gain required experience at an early age. If the job doesn’t work out, it helps teens narrow down their future prospects.
About Take Charge America
Founded in 1987, Take Charge America, Inc. (TCA) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. TCA offers a variety of services including financial education, credit counseling, and debt management. TCA’s programs are utilized by tens of thousands of families and individuals each year. To learn more about TCA or its programs please call 1-800-823-7396 or visit www.takechargeamerica.org.