by Ela Passarelli

Is it even possible for you to imagine a day without having anything to do from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM? Well, start trying, because summer is right around the corner!

One of the best ways to make your summer productive is to make money. It actually doesn’t take as much time as you’d think, and you’ll always have resources for Starbucks and bagel runs next school year. Plus, saving money during your free time now can save you when you really really really want something next year. Since I’m only a freshman and don’t have a lot of experience, I asked some older girls for advice and got some great answers on interesting things to do.

 

IF YOU ARE GOOD WITH KIDS:

  1. Work at a camp. I work at HBBH each summer, which is HB’s camp for adorable little girls and boys. It’s only from 9 AM to 1 PM every day, which leaves a lot of extra time for me to do other things. Plus, it’s a great way to get babysitting jobs over the school year. While it’s too late to sign up to work at HB, there are tons of camps all over Cleveland put on by other schools and organizations. You don’t need any experience, and they normally love new counselors to replace the graduating seniors!
  2. Another alternative to this is to have a camp at your house for a week. Some of my friends do this, and it’s an easy way to make money, taking up only one week of your time. Spread the word by hanging flyers up or telling the kids you babysit, and then do different activities each day like sports, art, and movies.

 

IF YOU LIKE MUSIC:

  1. Work at a concert venue. While these jobs can sometimes be gross and you normally need to be over 18, you do get to see lots of cool shows for free! Check to see if jobs are open at places like the House of Blues, Beachland Ballroom, or the Grog Shop.

 

IF YOU LIKE TO COOK:

  1. Work at a local shop like Luna or On the Rise. These places are all family owned, so you definitely will get to do some of the baking and preparation.
  2. If you are really good, start your own catering service! Start by making pastries and desserts for family friends’ parties, and then you could expand outwards.

 

IF YOU LOVE THE SUN:

  1. Work as a lifeguard! These jobs are pretty easy to get and only require minimal training. Plus, you’ll meet lots of people and get to spend your summer outdoors.


Aside from these ideas, there’s always the option of getting a job at a store or restaurant, which would be equally as fun. Hopefully you’ll find something you like to do and save up over the summer!