Did you just get an internship with a big name company? Is it the company you’ve always wanted to work for? Is the internship paid?
Even when the unthinkable happens, the clouds clear and you finally land the internship of your dreams, money can hold you back. Many of the top companies in big cities offer unpaid internships only. This can be a problem when it costs $50 a day just to commute. Here are some things to think about when shooting for that big company name internship:
How are you going to commute? Trains can be expensive, especially when you consider parking. Plus, the train may get you into the city you are commuting to, but what about going from there? You may need a bus, subway, or cab all of which can get expensive (or confusing) if you cannot walk. Another way to go is taking the bus from the start. Again, you will need transportation from there. All of these alternatives are generally cheaper than straight driving your commute due to gas prices, traffic, and parking. If you take another form of transportation, you can also take that time to nap, read a book, or just relax with some music.
Where will you take your lunch break? Will you be bringing it or eating out? Food is the second biggest concern after transportation. Bringing your lunch and some snacks for the train or bus ride is definitely cheaper, although more time consuming.
What will you need to wear? Chances are, you cannot go to your internship in the same clothes you have been going to class in. Updating the wardrobe from comfortable college student to professional work attire can cost some dough. If on a budget, check out stores like Marshals where you need to dig, but can find some great pieces discounted. Also, search for consignment shops in your area.
Aside from toning down your expenses, there are working options you can take when you aren’t interning that won’t burn you out and leave you feeling too overwhelmed.
Babysitting is one of the best ways to make some extra cash. Although there is a major risk factor as the kids’ behavior can range from angelic to rude and bouncing off the walls, babysitting has a good time to money ratio. Chances are you will be getting paid in cash too! If you’re not sure where to find families to babysit, check out Sittercity.com or other websites of the sort that match you up with families. All you need to do is add a profile.
If kids aren’t your thing, check out surveying or participating in research studies. Since there are so many scams out there, you may need to know someone who knows someone to find one of these. The good news is that all you need to do is drive somewhere and give your opinion on shampoo or sneakers or some product, and you will leave with a day’s pay. This can range from $50 to $150. The only catch is that you can only participate once every so many months.
Although it may take an arm and a leg to pull this off, that internship on your resume is worth it!
– TravelBug