I’ve read a lot of articles centered around what us college students should do over the summer. Creating (and going through) a summer reading list is an excellent idea, but an even more excellent one is getting a summer job. I know that summer jobs are often unpleasant. I also know that they are worth it. Here are some reasons to consider getting a job this summer.

1. Making your own money is incredibly satisfying.

Performing menial tasks, serving food to rude customers, and/or doing any other kind of summer work is not anyone’s idea of a good time, but at the end of the day you will be getting paid. Making money for yourself means you are being responsible. It also means you can spend your money however you want to. Do you need to pay off your cell phone bill? No problem. Do you want to go see your favorite band performing in concert? You have money for a ticket. Do you need to save money for college or for a special occasion? Now you can. The possibilities are endless.

2. Working in retail or customer service teaches valuable lessons in humility and patience.

It can be really frustrating to deal with rude people on a daily basis, but learning how to be civil in any situation is an invaluable skill. Keeping your cool when customers complain about not having enough hot fudge on their sundae will help you to grow in maturity.

3. Having a job gives you something productive to do every day.

For some people, having nothing to do but watch Netflix on the couch for 10 hours a day sounds like a dream. For others, it sounds like a nightmare. If you are one of those people who needs to be doing something, getting a job is a great idea. It may not be the most entertaining thing to do, but it will help you to pass the time.

4. Working teaches you responsibility.

Whether you are managing your co-workers or you are on the low end of the totem pole, having a job means accepting personal responsibility. You have to fold hundreds of shirts, sweep and mop floors, make food, and/or perform a wide variety of other tasks. In addition to the work you have to do at your job, you also have to manage your money wisely and cash your checks. Doing all these things will make you a more responsible adult. (It might also make you nostalgic for your childhood. Those were the good old days.)

5. You have a good reason to spend your days off however you like.

Do you want to make microwavable pizza bites and watch TV on the couch all day? That’s perfectly fine. Would you rather go hang out with your friends all day? Have fun! You have every right to relax and enjoy yourself, and you can feel good about doing it. You’ve definitely earned it.