Best Summer Jobs for English Majors

By the time summer rolls around, you are probably ready to set the books aside and take a well-deserved break. Those final exams are enough to tax anyone’s brain, and you have three long months to relax by the pool, hang out with friends, and perhaps take a road trip to the beach.

However, all play and no work can put you behind some of your super-ambitious classmates. This is an ideal time to land one of these best summer jobs for English majors so you can gain some real-life experience and beef up your resume while doing something you enjoy.

1. Freelance Writer

The gig economy has opened doors to opportunities that never existed before. You don’t have to go to a brick-and-mortar business for a job if you would rather work on your own terms. That’s why becoming a freelance writer is one of the best summer jobs for English majors.

You already have the skills to write a compelling blog post or copy for interested companies. There are vast opportunities online, including job boards looking for writers at all experience levels. Get your resume out there early to set yourself up for summer. You can also bid on writing jobs at sites like Upwork and take on projects you are most interested in one at a time. 

The best part of this arrangement is that you don’t have to give up that pool time if you don’t want to — just take your laptop outside and set up shop on your lounge chair. 

2. Tutor

Tutoring is another one of the best summer jobs for English majors that does not require going to an office location. You can either offer your services online or in person. You may have had experience working as a peer tutor at college, which makes a situation like this ideal.

Just as in freelance writing, there are numerous online tutoring services looking for summer help. Apply online at sites like Tutor.com and Studypool.com. You can set your own hours and bid on jobs to help others improve their writing and grammar skills.

If you’d rather work one-on-one or in person, try contacting your old school district to get connected with students in need of extra help. Kids of all ages will need assistance, from elementary through high school, so you can work with an age group you are most comfortable with.

3. Bookstore Sales

You’re an English major, so it should go without saying you are probably a voracious reader. Why not surround yourself with books and work in a bookstore over the summer? It’s a bibliophile’s paradise.

You will be privy to the latest releases and can offer advice and guidance to customers looking for recommendations. This is an ideal position if you would prefer to work at an actual store — not a virtual one — to meet new people and help others.

You will also gain experience in a retail setting, stocking shelves, rotating magazine stock, and ringing up customers at the cash register. You may also need to answer the phone and do some light cleaning. This position is ideal if you like to keep moving because no two days will ever be the same.

4. Library Assistant

A bookstore isn’t the only place to be surrounded by tomes. You may have grown up in your local library, whiling away afternoons finding new favorites or participating in summer reading club. It’s one of the best summer jobs for English majors who want to help their community while earning money.

You will need to know where books are located, help patrons find what they are looking for, set people up on the public computers, and assist those summer reading club kids with all their messy activities. You will also shelve returns, set up new library card accounts, and help with special events like movie nights.

This job will keep you on your toes, but you will find yourself in a lively environment serving as the hub of your community. 

Choose From These Best Summer Jobs for English Majors

Summer will be here before you know it, and you’ll want to line up your ideal job soon. The best jobs for English majors offer variety, mental stimulation, and a chance to add to your resume. Plus, having that spending money doesn’t hurt, either. You’ll need that when you finally go to the beach for a well-earned vacation with your friends before heading back to school.