The last two weeks of the semester are always the most agonizing, it seems like the studying will never end. If the warm weather and resurfacing Time Hop pictures aren't enough to have your brain on vacation, this year's viral summer bucket list is sure to do the trick. The days go by and you're so excited to keep making plans with your friends, however, that bank account isn't looking to happy. It's time to consider getting a summer job. Summer should be a relaxing time off of school to spend with your family and friends, after all, you've worked hard the entire year and you deserve a break. Who actually wants to spend their summer break working? Certainly not you. Fear not, there are ways to fund that adventure seeking soul of yours without committing to a set work schedule. Here's just a few of the endless possibilities on how to make some extra cash on your own time this summer.
1. Download Buy/Sell Apps
Apps like Poshmark and Mercari are quickly gaining popularity. Their concepts are very similar to that of eBay's, but instead, these apps are geared towards a younger crowd. Poshmark restricts users to only selling lightly used clothes, shoes, accessories, and purses in their virtual closets. Mercari on the other hand, allows for a broader array of items to be sold. Both apps have their differences, but share the same basic traits. Users are given the opportunity to clean out their old belongings while making some extra cash, giving buyers the chance to purchase these treasures at very affordable prices.
2. Have a Garage Sale
Sounds old school? Maybe a little bit, but there's a reason why you grew up garage sale hopping with your mom and they're still around today. If you advertise right, having a garage sale can generate a pretty hefty chunk of cash. Pick a nice weekend and put up signs, consider even asking some neighbors to hold sales on the same day. No one can resist stopping to look at a block full of action. If it's really hot out, having a lemonade or ice tea stand at the garage sale is also a great idea!
3. Create a Care.com Profile
Care.com offers a variety of part-time jobs to students. Baby sitting, helping with household chores, and dog walking are just some of the various services offered to those seeking a little extra help. Simply download the care.com app straight to your smartphone and create a profile. Potential families will contact you by phone call or email if you seem to be a good match and set up an interview from there. Add something new to your week and spend a day or two outdoors with fun loving children or pets!
4. Set Up a Table at Your Local Craft Fair/Flea Market
Most of the time a small fee around $10 to $15 is all that's required to set a table at a flea market or similar event. The possibilities are endless when it comes to crafting, so why not share your creativity with others? Simple items to consider selling at a craft fair are bracelets and other jewelry, tie-dye shirts, or even homemade baked goods. Not feeling crafty? Most towns hold flea markets weekly during the summer and allow participants to sell anything within reason at their tables.
5. Get Rid of Old Textbooks
No sense in holding onto your old books when most likely they were never cracked open to begin with. Before selling textbooks back to your school's bookstore, do some research. Many independent buyers will offer close to double the price of what bookstores give for buy backs. Another idea that seems to work well is advertising your used book on social media. You may not need it anymore, but chances are one of your friends or classmates does. No one likes to over pay for books so keep your asking price reasonable as you definitely won't get back what you paid.
