Last summer I got my first ever job at a movie theater near my home. I knew I needed to work because I was going to college and it would suck if I didn't have money to spend on stuff I needed. I was sad I was going to spend the summer working, but at the same time I felt so proud of myself for deciding to actually accomplish something during my three month long summer break.

Although a job at a movie theater making popcorn or ripping tickets might not be much, I learned a lot of valuable skills that summer when I wasn't in school. I kept my brain moving all the time and socialized more than I would've if I hadn't had the job.

This upcoming summer, or present summer for some of the people who are already out of school, I landed a full-time job working with kids through the Pacific Science Center in Seattle. It is such an amazing opportunity for me. I've only had one job before this and it was part time, so this will be a big change for me. I'm excited to spend about 40 hours a week working my butt off, hopefully changing children's lives. Although I don't want to go into a profession with children, I love them dearly. I've been recently very nervous about this job because I will be working much more than I am used to, but I'm excited to be filling my summer with something productive.

Of course I loved the summers where I could sleep in until noon, stay in my pajamas all day, and watch season after season of my favorite show on Netflix. I love a good nap as much as the next college student, but at the same time I think it's better to spend the summer months expanding your mind and your skillset. This could be through work, travel, or even just volunteering somewhere. As a young adult, it is important to keep your mind sharp and be ready for your future.

I may sound like some boring adult, but summer jobs are awesome! There's something out there for everybody—well, of course after the age of 16. Even when you're younger than that you can volunteer and travel if you have the time and the money.

If you have a job or other plans, that doesn't mean you still can't have fun over the summer. Despite my full time job, I'm going to be watching a ton of Netflix (I really want to finish "The Vampire Diaries") and visiting various friends from high school and out of state. Just because you have a job doesn't mean you have to give up your life. We see adults with social lives all the time. So go out there. Whether its volunteering, babysitting, or traveling, enjoy your summer. But don't just sit there and let yourself waste away in bed. I hope you have a great summer!