Five Steps For Landing a Sweet Summer Job!

Written by Joi Mays 
April 25, 2024

Students learning trying to get a summer job

Photo from University Communications

Looking to make some extra cash this summer? Look no further – this article has you covered on the five steps it takes to help you land a summer job! 

Step 1: Review your resume

First things first, make sure that you have a resume. If you need help building a resume or a cover letter, check out this resume guide and these resume and cover letter samples! Do you already have a resume and want to make sure it’s okay? Run it through the Career Center’s Resume AI tool, which can scan your resume and give you instant feedback!

Step 2: Find a fitting position 

To apply for a job, you have to find a job opening! Check out Handshake to see what summer jobs and internships they have to offer. If you’re having trouble figuring out where you should start, explore the Career Center’s guide to job searching. If you aren’t sure what kind of job you want, check out your major guide to see what other students typically do in your career. 

Step 3: Network network network!

If your job search is turning up dry, networking is the key to success! Check out the GVSU LinkedIn Alumni tool to find some alumni who might be interested in talking with you.  If you're comfortable, try asking your professors or a mentor if they know of any job openings. Don’t know how to start the convo without feeling awkward? Listen to this episode of the Work Like a Laker Podcast for five tips on how to avoid the awkward. 

Step 4. Prep for the interview 

Congrats on booking an interview! Interviewing can sometimes feel scary, but you got this!. Check out the Work Like A Laker Podcast on interview tips and this page on the Career Center’s website. 

Step 5. Be persistent! 

If you’ve been applying for jobs and haven’t gotten anything back yet, don’t give up! It can be disappointing when your hard work doesn’t manifest into a job. Try your best to get back up and put yourself out there!

If you need more tips on how to find a summer job, make an appointment for the CareerLab, which is open Monday-Friday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. You can also get career help virtually Monday-Friday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. 

Check out the Career Center