Continuing Education + Job Training // Publishing since 1999

Summer Suzie

By ANDREW OLIVER - April 17 2019

Dear Elcee:

I am a second year college student and will be returning in September for my final year. I have to get my act in gear and look for summer employment. When is the best time to start looking for work.  Any tips or hints for me?

Summer Suzie

Dear Summer:

Well, the time to start looking for summer employment is now!! In February and March you will find that many employers and the government will start advertising summer student specific positions. They will often run between May and August. You can find most of those on the Government of Canada job bank site or your local provincial and municipal websites. Another place to check out will be your own schools’ student assistance office or website.

I also highly recommend really thinking about what type of job you would like to do during the summer. Are you looking to develop skills and experience in your chosen career path or are you looking to make money? Occasionally the two goals can meet but not always.

If it’s skills you are hoping to obtain focus on obtaining a position through a summer employment program. Many of these positions are supplemented or entirely funded by government. Sometimes there are prerequisites to be met such as enrollment in a specific program of study. Wages can vary but often have a defined start and end date.

Summer is also a time to look for employment in the hospitality, tourism, construction and agriculture industries. These jobs may or may not be advertised on student job boards. This is a good time to take your well written resume and hit the streets. Remember, if you are looking for work in the hospitality go in the down times (usually 2 -4 in the afternoon). Many jobs in hospitality and tourism may not be 9 – 5 and may require working weekends. If you are flexible in your hours, add that to your resume. Don’t discount any volunteer work you may have been involved with and if you don’t have CPR/First Aid now is the time to get that certification.

Another option would be to register with temporary placement agencies. Many offices will bring people on to cover for employees going on holiday. If that is your goal, ensure that your computer skills are up to date (MS Office including Word, PowerPoint and Excel are expected!).

With all that in hand, check out the jobbank.gc.ca website and indeed.com. Both of them have filters which will specifically target summer student and temporary positions. As with all jobs, keep in mind, that you have to approach this with the same seriousness and professionalism that you would apply to any permanent position you would apply for. You never know where that summer job could lead to in the future! Good luck!

Dear ELCEE is written by Deborah Noel, deborahjnoel@gmail.com
Send her your questions.

We value your opinion. Please let us know what you think about this column. Send comments to learningcurves@hotmail.com.


Digital Citizen Corner
Learning Curves

Protecting Your Digital Privacy and Why It’s Crucial to Keep It Safe

By BRYAN SENFUMA -
October 13 2024

In today's world, your data is always at risk. Learn how to safeguard your privacy, avoid cyber threats, and stay in control of your digital life. Take action today!

Read more...

Viewpoint
Learning Curves

Should homosexuality be envied?

By OSMAN OZSOY -
October 10 2024

Should homosexuality be envied? This article reflects concerns from parents about societal influences on their children, particularly regarding homosexuality in schools. Prof. Dr. Osman Ozsoy shares observations from a public debate during a tram ride in Amsterdam, offering a glimpse into different perspectives.

Read more...

Love of Learning
Learning Curves

Chemistry of Falling in Love

By ANNA KARLOVA -
September 25 2024

Falling in love is one of the most exhilarating and uncontrollable human experiences. What exactly happens when we fall in love? Read the exiting article about Chemistry of Love to know the exact answer!

Read more...

Viewpoint
Learning Curves

Close your eyes, there will be no problem

By OSMAN OZSOY -
September 17 2024

It is necessary to find solutions to all human problems, not only for the individual peace and health of our own people, but also for the peace of the whole world. Any other solution will be far from permanent. Closing our eyes and remaining indifferent will never be a solution.

Read more...