5 Benefits of a Summer Job

A summer job might be the last thing on a teen’s mind before the school year ends, but not considering it early could create a sticky situation once June hits.  

“A lot of times teens don’t know how a summer job could benefit them in the future,” says James Avery, director of Talent Development for Flint & Genesee Education & Talent. “Gaining work experience during high school gives students a leg up and helps build their resume.” 

Here are other reasons students might want to consider summer employment.  

1. Form new connections 

Working a summer job can connect you to a variety of individuals that can help build a network for you in the future. Teens who have worked a summer job have made lifelong friendships and can use professional relationships when looking for future employment through references and connections. 

2. Learn new skills 

No matter what your future holds, a summer job can help instill skills that you can carry through your life. From organizational skills to communication, there are several things you can pick up from a summer job.  

3. Find out what you want to do 

New experiences can teach you what you want to do and what you don’t want to do. A summer job is a great way to test the waters of various career paths to find out what you are passionate about.  

4. Have a fun experience 

Just because it is a job doesn’t mean it has to feel like work. There are plenty of jobs that provide fun and exciting experiences such as working for your local parks system or working with younger students at a day camp. Summer jobs give you the opportunity to have a fun summer. 

5. Get paid 

A summer job can bring some extra cash into your life without getting in the way of school or afterschool activities. And who doesn’t like some extra cash? 

Get a head start on your summer job prospects through TeenQuest, a pre-employment and leadership training program through Flint & Genesee Education & Talent. The last session of TeenQuest starts Feb. 21 at six sites throughout Genesee County with a virtual option for students who cannot attend in person. 

TeenQuest starts students on the path to Summer Youth Initiative (SYI). The summer program helps connect students to jobs at area nonprofits, schools, and local businesses. SYI is designed specifically for students who have graduated from TeenQuest and are looking for summer employment.  

For more information on TeenQuest and SYI, visit EducateFlintandGenesee.org.  

TeenQuest and Summer Youth Initiative are made possible through the generous support of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation.