Every college student understands the struggle of needing a summer job. Some are lucky and already have one that they had in high school. I am in the unfortunate percentage of college students that do not have a job. I have been looking even before I came home; and as of right now I have officially been home for about three weeks and I have yet to find a job.

All throughout high school and the tail end of middle school I had a job as a soccer referee. I had a love/hate relationship with the job, but most of all I loved it because of all its perks and conveniences. So I am not used to this feeling of joblessness.

First, I did apply for a job while I was away at college. Now, you may be asking yourself “well, why did you only apply to one?” Yes, I know it was only one job, but when you are four hours away from home it’s hard to know who is hiring. Plus, I had high hopes, which I wish I didn’t since I don’t think I got the job. They never even called me or sent me anything to let me know that I didn’t get the job. Don’t just leave me hanging! I know after a few weeks I’ll get the hint, but at least have the courtesy to let me know and give me a straight answer.

I have even talked to my friends about this problem and they said they applied to a couple of places and never heard back either. Like okay, I understand I didn’t get the job, but tell me that I didn’t and decide that you just don’t want to tell me.

Furthermore, I called another place and simply asked if they were hiring. They didn’t give me a straight answer, but they were nice and told me to send in an application, and that they keep all applications in case someone leaves or they need extra help. This I think is great because even if you find another job and you are offered this job a while later, you can always leave your old job. You’ll always be on the list.

I refuse to work at fast food, in my local mall, or get a waitressing job. I know what you are thinking and that I’m being picky—yes, that’s true, but I also feel like I won’t be able to just work anywhere. And you are probably thinking about the waitressing and that you can make a lot of money just in tips, but knowing myself I won’t be able to do it because I’ll trip and fall with all the food in my hand, and I wouldn’t want to mess up anyone’s order. Overall, it’s just better for the general public that I stay out of restaurant business.

Lucky for me, a few of my friends have been helpful and gave me a list of some places where they are hiring. So I plan to apply there and hopefully they’ll let me keep the job while I am away at college.