You have already gotten some good answers, but here's my perspective as someone who spent her time in the seasonal trenches and now does a lot of seasonal hiring.
* Hiring officials understand that biology work is thin on the ground during the off-season. Working as a waiter or ski patroller will not hurt your chances of getting next year's seasonal gig. * Volunteering can be a fun and affordable way to make it through the off season. Look into the Student Conservation Association's internship programs. * Consider traveling abroad in cheap countries. Once you pay for the plane ticket, your living expenses can actually be less than if you are paying rent and buying groceries in the US. (This was my favorite option when I was a seasonal). There are many international volunteer experiences available also, and if you are interested in a particular place or program, you can usually contact them and set up something individually if you are available for several months. Mexico, Central America, and much of Asia are particularly thrifty spots for traveling. * You usually qualify for unemployment to help defray costs if you worked in your seasonal position for 6 months. * Once you get your first seasonal gig, it's a lot easier to get the second one. * Live modestly both during the season and in the off-season. Now is not the time to buy a house (I've seen people try it!) or spend every night out on the town. * If you don't WANT to be a seasonal but are only doing it as a stopgap until you get year-round work, then focus your off season on your job search. The skills you gain and people you meet during your season could help you find what you really want. I think most folks who have done it will tell you that the seasonal years, while sometimes financially difficult, are some of the most enjoyable times of their careers. Best of luck and have a great season! Rebecca Weissinger
