What do you do when college dorms lock up for the summer and classes are over? If you\’re smart, you\’ll look for a job and save for next year\’s tuition. That doesn\’t mean you have to work for someone else, be your own boss and have fun in the process. Take some time to consider what you enjoy doing and turn it into a money-making enterprise. Here are some ideas:

1. Watch children, walk dogs or house sit. Parents of school-age kids face a challenge every summer regarding what to do for child care while they are at work. Gather some solid references and create a brochure or small-space ad in your local newspaper. If full-time babysitting isn\’t for you, go after the vacation market and give some \”TLC\” and exercise to dogs while the family is away. Generally, you charge per visit and leave it up to the owners how many times they want you to stop by per day.

2. Wash cars. This enterprise will require an initial investment on your part, but at $20 to $30 per car, you\’ll recoup your money quickly. You\’ll need a portable vacuum, towels and sponges, cleaning supplies and a big bucket. Create a business card or flyer and place them under windshield wipers in your area. You\’ll get to work outside all summer and if you do a good job, your customers will come back week after week.

3. Be a one-man concession stand. Not all public parks and baseball fields have a vendor selling cold drinks and snacks, so this could be your own personal gold mine. Buy the biggest cooler you can comfortably tote around and fill it with anything you think might be desirable. Be creative − offer glow-in-the-dark sticks, portable fans, ring pops and plenty of cool drinks. If you\’re stuck for ideas, ramble around the dollar store for a while. Make a waterproof sign, grab a portable chair and plant yourself in the shade at every public event you can think of.

4. Cut grass. College students have been pushing lawnmowers for generations and with good reason − it\’s a good way to make money. Again, there\’s an initial investment involved and lawn mowers aren\’t exactly bought with pocket change. However, if you buy a good one and take care of it, you can be in business throughout your entire college career. If funds are tight in the beginning, you could rent your equipment. You\’ll need hedge clippers, a trimmer or edger and gasoline, too. Earning potential? You can make between $20 and $40 per yard depending on the size.

5. Tutor or lead a workshop of some kind. You don\’t have to be a math whiz to make money teaching others. What about setting up a gymnastics class in the park or leading a weekly finger-painting session for elementary school kids? You could even start a book club to help kids with their summer reading. Make up some flyers and leave them at the library or contact elementary teachers in early spring for ideas on how to reach parents with your idea. Have fun with it!

Ronni Carter counsels adult students on scholarships, financial aid, online degrees, online colleges, and career advancement.

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