Think before seeking summer job

If you don't have summer employment lined up, you're getting a late start.

The first step is determining what you want to do. Malika Johnson, the college counselor at Augusta Prep, has some tips for narrowing your options.

DO WHAT YOU LIKE. If you are an avid video gamer, check out video game stores or stores such as Best Buy.

"You know it will be a good job for you if it is something you would do anyway without being paid, simply because you enjoy it," Ms. Johnson said. "That way, it won't feel like work."

WORK ONLY IF YOU FEEL LIKE YOU CAN BE RESPONSIBLE WITH THE MONEY. Working after your sophomore year might put you ahead of your friends, but if you know that you will spend all the money you earn, you aren't ready.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR RESOURCES. Ms. Johnson advises trying out something before you go on a summer experience or leadership camp. Ask to shadow a friend's parent. Or you can write a letter to ask what a job entails.

OFFICES ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO DO THE 'DIRTY WORK.' Offer to do filing at a doctor's office or be the coffee runner at a law office.

"An internship or a job can be as good for learning what you don't want to do versus learning what you do want to do," Ms. Johnson said.

Maggie Burch is a junior at Augusta Preparatory Day School.