Summer is Here and School is Out!

Although most colleges have been out for several weeks now, most gradeschools are now closing (or getting ready to close) for the summer.  The academic pressure is off, and it’s time to relax, have fun, and celebrate right?  That may be fine for the first few days, but as most students figure out, that can get boring pretty quickly.  Here are some ideas that may help you fill your time and your savings account this summer.

Summer Job
There are several summer jobs that are merely seasonal, such as life guard, snowcone booth, and landscaping positions.  These jobs are ideal for those old enough to work during the summer because each year will require a hiring frenzy to be adequately staffed.  Those who aren’t young enough to get a summer job can do extra chores around the house, neighborhood, or even their parents’ workplace if the situation allows.  It may not sound like a fun way to spend your summer, but your mind will change when you get your monthly statement from your financial institution and find the numbers growing at an escalated rate.

Outdoor Fun!
Camping, fishing, hiking, canoeing, tennis, baseball, and even golf are excellent inexpensive ways to enjoy the great outdoors.  If you’re not old enough to do some of these activities, talk to your parents!  Perhaps they’ll be glad to help you put up a tent in the back yard or take you fishing.  There *are* many more outdoor things to do, so you can sit down and make a list of outdoor activities you like or even ones you’ve never done and want to try. If you do spend time outdoors during the summer, please remember to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated!

Volunteer Work
This is especially important for those attending high school.  Did you know that most scholarship applications have a place where you can list your volunteer work?  It’s looked at as having a good sense of responsibility toward your community.  Plus, you get a great feeling for having something to make a difference in the lives of others.  You may not  get paid for it now, but if it means that you have a better shot at getting a discounted or even free college education, it couldn’t hurt.

There are plenty of productive ways to spend your summer without having to shell out big bucks.  You can even make some cash in the process.  Just remember that staying indoors too much can be unhealthy as it promotes anti-social tendencies.  And for those of you with summer jobs, keep saving!  You never know what expenses may come out of the woodwork. Have a great Memorial Day weekend, by the way!