Working on campus holds many benefits that having an off campus job doesn’t. On campus jobs are structured to where you can learn job skills and occasionally have the opportunity for school work. Other benefits that are included: shortened walking distance from your job to your classes, employers on campus work with your schedule and due to the 20 hour per week rule, students have plenty of time to work on homework and to study for classes.
The employers are motivating and there are a variety of benefits that student workers can receive.
“Being a student worker is incredibly beneficial, as they put school first. They are understanding, and schedules are flexible so I can work between classes,” said Adrianna Garcia, a junior.
For students working off campus, there are not as many benefits. Sure, you can get paid more or even work more hours. But, most off-campus employers are not as flexible with school schedules.
For a time I did work off campus. The company I worked for was not able to fully work around my schedule, which caused a number of problems. I eventually had to quit that job because I did not have time to work on my school work due to the hours in which I was scheduled. After that, I focused more on my work-study job and on my position with The Criterion.
As a student worker, I work in Career Services as an office/peer assistant. I have found a great deal of joy in working with this department. Not only do I get to do office work and help students, but I am also meeting so many more students than I would have by just attending classes. I have had more than enough time to work on my school work, but I also feel that I am receiving beneficial job training. The guidance I have received in writing an effective resume and how to conduct myself for future interviews has been wonderful.
“Working on campus is a great opportunity. I love that it allows me a flexible schedule that works with my class schedule and allows me to stay on top of my school work. I also enjoy being able to be so involved and active on campus,” said Lindsey, a senior.
Students can also work on campus without work study. There are a few departments that offer student assist positions. One department that offers employment to students even if you don’t have work study, is the custodial department. Even working in that department is a fulfilling job. You are contributing to the cleanliness of your campus. Sure, the work is hard but you’re helping your campus in a way that you could never imagine. Then there is even Sodexo. From Starbucks to Flat Top Grill and even to Chik-Fil-A, there are a multitude of positions for students to choose from.
So, if you are worried that working on campus is going to interfere with your studies, look into it. Most employers are campus are all for you doing your school work while working in their department. Who could ask for more? You are able to work, do your studies, make new friends, have flexible working schedules, and most of all – get paid for it!
