How valuable is getting a job for colleges?
For example, working at fast-food like Subway or something.
Do colleges like students who work at fast food places? What kind of jobs do they prefer?
Colleges do value jobs similar to ECs.
Are jobs better than volunteering or other school clubs?
They would be viewed similarly by most admission officers. Do what works for you and your family.
also what kind of job is best for someone majoring in STEM?
i think its too hard and late to get a research or science job? are food jobs still good?
Do not get a job or do an EC for the sake of looking good for a particular college or for college applications in general. Do what interests you and in the case of a job, something that may help pay for college costs or just for the learning experience.
Every admissions officer I have spoken with, and my wife used to be one herself, suggests that a job is highly valued as a pseudo-EC because unlike many EC’s they know what it entails; so many EC’s are imaginary non-profits, or luxury summer programs, or honorary leadership positions, that it is much easier to evaluate employment. Not that jobs are “better” than other EC’s, just it is often easier to understand and evaluate in comparison to many.
I’m a HUGE fan of teens having jobs!!! They teach responsibility and the ability to think on your feet in a way that no class or EC can. Your boss needs you to do what he needs you to do so that he can feed his kids; he’s not going to put up with less than your best. He’s not interested in soothing your fragile ego, he needs you to do the job you’ve been hired to do.
I think a rec letter from a boss can carry an awful lot of weight.
Don’t sweat the “type” of job. Part time jobs can be tough to find in many parts of the country. Get the job you can get, and do your best. McDonalds or Subway, your local supermarket-- all teach the same skills.
All colleges will be happy to see a summer job, any kind of job, on an application. There’s no shame in working in fast food. Your app will not be looked down on.
so it can only help me right?