Dear Emma,

I had a job lined up for this summer but now I can’t work because of the COVID-19 pandemic. What should I do?

Sincerely,

“Bored”

Dear Bored,

That’s tricky, but fear not! Plenty of other people are in the same boat as you (including me).

My best piece of advice is to decide what you want out of your summer now that you’re free. Are you looking for money, enrichment or adventure? Or maybe you want something else?

Once you have a general goal for your summer plans, you can start deciding what you are going to do more specifically. 

If you want to make money, consider applying to work at a grocery store or fast-food restaurant. Those are two types of establishments that are still open and you will be able to make a little extra cash. 

You can also go back to some of the ways you made money as a kid: walking dogs, mowing lawns and babysitting (if you are allowed to do so). 

Fun fact: The Daily Evergreen IS hiring right now, and you don’t have to be in Pullman. Just a suggestion.

If you’re seeking enrichment, that could come in many forms. There are plenty of free classes online from epidemiology to photography and more. See what’s out there and if there is anything that interests you.

Maybe your enrichment will come in the form of relaxation or building healthier habits. You could try yoga, painting, running — you name it! The possibilities are endless. 

Finally — and this one is my favorite — adventure. It may be difficult to take a grand trip to a foreign country, but most states are easing restrictions and allowing access to local and state parks. Take a day trip to a place you’ve never been before and see everything there is to offer (but be sure to practice social distancing). 

Walking and hiking are two of my favorite ways to spend a quarantine day, so if you haven’t already, give those a shot! You’ll get good exercise and feel like you accomplished something. 

If you are toward the beginning of your college career, this could be your last summer to do something fun before you have to look for an internship or job. Even though you can’t do everything you want to do, you can still make the most of it!

I’m sorry this summer isn’t what you planned for. It does suck, but it sucks for everyone at the moment. Try to stay positive and know that we will get through this!

Have a good summer and I hope this helps!

Emma