Finding work over the summer
Finding Work Over the Summer by Georgia Lavender (Student Funding Adviser)
Summer is an excellent time for students to gain work experience and earn extra money to help see you through the academic year. Whether you're seeking a part-time job, an internship, or a side hustle, there are numerous opportunities available. Here’s a guide to help you find the perfect summer job.
How to find a job
Job-hunting can be overwhelming if you don't know where to start. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Update your CV: Make sure your CV is polished and ready. Using online tools such as Flow CV can also make it quick and easy to tailor your CV to each role.
2. Start early: Begin your job search early, as many companies start recruiting for summer positions months in advance.
3. Search online: Utilize online job platforms like E4S Student Jobs or Indeed.
4. Use University resources: Look at the Warwick Uni Unitemps page for jobs here on campus.
5. Apply in person: For retail jobs, applying in person can be effective. Look for ads in shop windows.
6. Network: Ask friends if there are openings where they work.
Types of summer jobs
1. Retail, Hospitality and Tourist Attractions
Retail positions, hospitality jobs, and roles at tourist attractions are popular among students and often need extra staff over the summer due to increased demand. Consider working at supermarkets, department stores, restaurants, cafés, bars, or local tourist attractions like theme parks and theatres. These jobs not only provide a steady income but also offer valuable customer service experience, which is beneficial for future career prospects.
2. Work Abroad
If you want to travel and earn money, look for summer jobs overseas. Popular jobs include becoming an au pair for a family or teaching English. American summer camps also offer opportunities to teach hobbies while exploring the USA. If you want to find out more, then Save the Student has a great guide to working abroad to get you started.
3. Festival and Events
If you’re wondering how you will afford festival tickets this summer, then you might want to consider working at one. Some offer paid positions, while others provide free tickets in exchange for voluntary work. Roles can include cleaning, distributing wristbands, and selling programs. Volunteering at festivals through charities like Oxfam is a great way to enjoy the event while gaining work experience.
4. Pet Sitting
If you love animals, pet sitting can be a great summer job. It's also flexible and can fit around your summer plans. Websites like Rover, Tailster, and Cat in a Flat can help you find pet-sitting opportunities, or check out Save the Student’s guide on making money from pet-sitting.
5. Babysitting
Many parents need babysitters during school holidays, and it is a flexible job that can fit around your summer plans. Ask family, friends or relatives if they need a babysitter, as parents often prefer to hire someone they know and trust. Check out this babysitting guide to get you started, which includes info about things like DBS checks and how much you could earn.
6. Private Tutoring
Tutoring is well-paid and looks impressive on your CV. It demonstrates your knowledge and ability to explain complex information, as well as allowing you to work remotely and flexibly, making it ideal for students. Some top sites include superprof, MyTutor, and FirstTutors.
7. University Jobs and Admin Work
Universities often look for temporary staff during the summer to help with clerical tasks and accommodation support. Check out your university’s job listings for openings. Administrative roles are also a great way to boost your CV. Make sure to showcase your IT skills and any relevant experience. You can apply to major staffing agencies like Reed or Office Angels, but steer clear of any agencies that want you to pay upfront fees. You can also look for jobs on Indeed using keywords like "summer," "office work," "admin," "clerical," and "temporary."
Looking for a summer job can be a great way to build your skills and boost your career. Make the most of your university's resources, be proactive in your search, and enjoy your summer!
For further support, contact Student Funding Support by email (studentfunding@warwick.ac.uk), phone (024 7615 0096), or visit the Wellbeing Reception in Senate House (10 am-3 pm Monday-Friday).
You can also browse the Student Opportunity careers page for information and advice, search job vacancies on myAdvantage, book an appointment with a careers consultant to receive careers guidance or application feedback, or attend the Application and CV drop-in for a fifteen minute one to one appointment.