“The Song of Bernadette” is a movie classic released in 1943. This is the story of St. Bernadette Soubirous Bernadette’s community, which included her school, was skeptical of her because she was “different”. We need to be aware of how we relate to young people, students that are different. They may be special in their own unique way; in fact there is a good chance they are… We have students that have different learning styles that arrive at college with all kinds of talents. College provides a great time for them to “come out” and be who they are without all the tags they had when they were in high school. Many college students blossom and thrive at college. Maybe they were not “popular” in high school but now they have the opportunity to redefine themselves. They can experience success. I love to see kids, finally have their “time in the sun”. I see “nerds” become the popular one… The shy student finds their voice. Someone that never had the chance to perform, become a star… This is what college is about.

In these times leadership is more important than ever and there is so much we can learn from the leaders of our past.

I have found that Winston Churchill is popular with the college audience. When we have spoken to this age group, we are always amazed at their questions and their insights. Did you know that Churchill is the third most quoted source to this day. (The Bible and Shakespeare are the first two.) His life lessons are great tools for the leaders of tomorrow.

Here’s a favorite Churchill quote : “Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.”

Take a minute to share one of your favorite quotes below.

Summer Jobs for High School Students
That Prepares Them for College

For the Entrepreneurs

• Cleaning Services
• Yard Maintenance Service
• Car Detailing Business
• Pet Sitting Service. Summer is vacation time.
• P.C. tutor – Help adults learn how to use their computers
• Catering – Help a busy household with meals.
• Painting. Start with outside jobs.
• Errands
• Messenger and delivery services
• If your student has a talent, have them market it.

Traditional Jobs

• Have your student talk to family and friends.
• Hotels and Resorts
• Grocery Stores. This is a great place to start.
• Fast Food Restaurants.
• Is your family a member of a tennis club? Golf club? Apply.
• Park and Recreation Departments. Summer Job Programs.
• Local Government Summer Job Programs.
• Camp Counselor/C.I.T. (Counselor in Training Program)
• Take a college level course at a Community College.

Volunteer Jobs

• Local Library
• Animal Shelter or Bird Sanctuary
• Trail and Beach Clean-up
• Working at a co-op
• Providing Random Acts of Kindness to those in need.

***It is never too early to start building a resume. Every job a student has is an experience, another tool in their tool box that sets them apart from others.***

Do you have some ideas? Please share. Post any idea you have for a student who is looking for a summer activity.