The Holidays can be a great time for spending time with old friends and lots of relaxation when you’re in college. It’s that time when you get to go home, sleep in your own bed and stay out at night without having to worry about any assignments or upcoming tests. In addition to all this, though, the holidays can also serve as the prime time to make money in a seasonal job.
I know what you’re thinking: Why would I want to work during the only time I have to breathe? Trust me, I thought the same thing until I snagged a job working retail in a seasonal position. It may seem like the last thing you want to do on your break, but if you can get a position, it may actually be one of the best things you’ll ever do.
1. You have money to spend during all of that time off
Being out of school for basically a month means you have WAY more free time than before. That means more time to see movies, go out with friends, go to concerts, etc. To do so, you’re definitely going to want money— unless you’re lucky enough to have parents to fund your adventures. Though working will eat some of your break time, it’s worth it in the end to be able to make some really good memories while you’re out of school.
2. Seasonal jobs aren’t that hard to come by
Just about every major store needs help during the holidays. From Black Friday to the days of returns after Christmas, any extra hand they can have benefits them in the long run. Take my job for example, I got hired in one interview simply because I was willing to work Black Friday. If you have a clean record and the free time, someone will more than likely hire you.
3. Discounts on Christmas gifts
Not every job has the same benefits, but a lot of the seasonal positions available are generally in retail. Most retailers have certain advantages for their employees in order to reward their loyalty to the company. This can range from things like incentive packages to discounts on merchandise or things like special sales for employees. During a time of the year when gift giving is so big, it might not be a bad idea to be working somewhere that gives you a discount.
4. Résumé building doesn’t stop during breaks
If you’re looking to show future employers something neat about you, seasonal employment may be for you. I know for me, working during the school semesters isn’t ideal because I personally can’t balance school and work. If you can do both, kudos to you. If you’re like me, getting a seasonal job is the right fit because you still get your shot at employment without the pressure of your grades dropping. This shows future employers that you put emphasis on your studies and still made time to build your resume during your breaks from school.
5. The time limit on the job makes it more bearable
Even if you hate retail, you have to admit that only having to do it for about an 85-day period makes it slightly less intimidating. Seasonal positions are exactly that— seasonal. You’re not signing on for a long-term commitment— you’re just there for the holidays. When your wallet starts looking fat, it might not be so bad after all.
Seasonal employment may not be for everyone, but if you’re looking for an easy way to make money during your time off school— look no further. Just hit up any mall or shopping strip during Thanksgiving break, and you’ll more than likely find someone willing to take you on for holiday help. Once you get in those few weeks of work and go back to school, you can be happy knowing that you’ve got money in your pocket (unless you used it all shopping with your discount) and more work experience on your résumé!