When employment of 16 to 24-year-olds increases from approximately 1.8 million to 18.6 million in the summer months, job positions become increasingly hard for students to find.

Mary Haar, CCE and Business Internship teacher, has some tips for students searching for a summer job.

The first step for finding summer employment is to look for places that are hiring. Haar said some of the best ways to find who is hiring is by asking friends and relatives and inquiring at a place of business or on their website.

Mollie Momphard, junior, said she found a job at Sonic Drive-In by walking in and asking about a job. Momphard said she had been searching for about six months to one year.

The next step is to apply, and Haar said the method of application is crucial. 

“Apply in person if given the choice,” Haar said. “Connecting a name to a face is significant.”

The final step of the application is the interview.

“You should always dress one position higher than the position you are applying for,” Haar said.  “For example, if you are applying for a sales associate position, you should dress like an assistant manager.  Dress and groom conservatively and make sure your clothes are pressed and clean.”

Momphard said the application process she went through was pretty basic.

“They asked me questions, read my resume and application,” Momphard said. “Then they said ‘you’re hired.’”

Overall, Haar said the key to making a good first impression is to be prepared, do your homework and research the company.

“Have a resume and reference letters with you,” Haar said. “Be on time, positive, courteous and attentive during the interview.”

Momphard said the manager at Sonic had over-hired and that she unfortunately didn’t get the job as she originally thought. However, Momphard said she is going to keep searching for a job.

“I want a job because I want money,” Momphard said. “I’m kind of broke right now.”

Antonella Donati, junior, said she is in the process of searching for a job and has begun preparing for the application process.

“I have looked at Kohl’s and Pet Supplies Plus,” Donati said. “I am looking because I need a job. In order to keep my car and pay for it, I need a job. Gas prices are going to be crazy this summer.”

Donati said that for the interview she is going to take particular measures to make sure she makes a good first impression.

“I am going to dress well, have a positive attitude and make sure that I am not chewing gum,” Donati said.