Although many internships stipulate that candidates must be able to receive college credit to be eligible to work, there are some that don't require interns to be enrolled in school. Many of these types also happen to be paid, offering monetary compensation instead of the opportunity for credit.
If you're a recent graduate, there's a good chance you can find a position that works for you, especially if you are available on a full-time basis. Not only do internships offer valuable work experience, but, they are an excellent way to make connections with potential employers. An internship will also give you solid experience to list on your resume.
Invest in Your Passion
Personal Trainer Assisting Student With Cobra Pose in Her Yoga Class
Do you love yoga or pilates? Can't spend enough time on the ski slopes? Are you a rock-climbing pro? Love to paint? If you have a passion that you can turn into a part-time job, consider investing in a training course and get certified, or even teach it on your own.
For example, you could take a yoga teacher training course, become a certified ski or rock climbing instructor, or become an art teacher at your local community center.
Whatever you love to do, look into how you can make a job out of it. Not only will you have a blast at work, but you'll gain the experience and skills you need to turn your hobby into a job that you can always fall back on.
Take a Continuing-Education Class Whether you're interested in pursuing a field other than what you majored in or want to develop career-specific skills further, consider taking continuing-education classes at a community college or an adult-learning center in your area.
For example, if you were an English major but want to pursue a different field, like computer programming or graphic design, taking classes gives you a foundation to begin looking for entry-level jobs in that field.
Moreover, these classes are relatively inexpensive compared to credited courses at four-year colleges but still offer valuable, real-life skills.
Pursue a Part-Time Job That You're Passionate About
Young woman working part time in a greenhouse.
If you don't feel you're ready to jump into a nine-to-five career, take the year off working a part-time job in an area you're passionate about, or somewhere you've always thought about working, like at a flower shop, for example, but never had the time to try it out.
Not only does this give you the opportunity to pad your bank account post-college, but, it could develop into more promising opportunities down the road.
For example, a recent college graduate who was very interested in yoga obtained a position working as a receptionist at a small, local yoga studio. That part-time job eventually led to her now-permanent career as a manager and marketing specialist for a larger studio.
Volunteer in the U.S.
Volunteers Holding Hands in Circle
While volunteering might not bring in income, it is a valuable way to use your time, as you will be making positive changes while also building a network of fellow volunteers, co-workers, supervisors, and organizations that might be important to your future work.
Gap year programs like City Year and Teach for America are one way to volunteer. You can also find day-to-day opportunities within your hometown, or reach out to a non-profit organization and ask if they could use your assistance.
Your volunteer experiences can be included on your resume, and, if you're worried about money, consider a side gig to boost your income.
Teach English Abroad
Smiling Teacher and Student in Front of Chalkboard Holding Hands
A large number of Americans land jobs abroad each year. English has become the dominant language for international trade so export countries, particularly in Asia and Latin America, are eager to have their citizens learn the language.
Popular options include programs through international embassies, such as the JET program with Japan or France's equivalent, as well as jobs at international schools and through service organizations.
