Work-study programs are typically funded by either federal or state money and are only for students with a high financial need. A year and a half ago, Colorado Mesa University decided to take things into its own hands and create their own middle-income program, MavWorks.
Director of Financial Aid Curt Martin said MavWorks is geared more for students that could still use some assistance, but are not considered to have a big enough financial need to receive government aid.
So far 61 students are being awarded assistance through MavWorks. The program has contributed $46,696 to 47 of those students who have acquired on-campus jobs.
MavWorks was launched as a pilot program for one semester and has gained funds and support ever since. Last year, 188 of 218 students worked through the program making almost $358,000. This year, MavWorks is looking to grow with a larger budget of $480,000 and 210 students have already found employment.
There are only 10 students who have been awarded assistance from the program that have not found jobs and have until Thursday to do so before their awards are given to other students on the waiting list.
To be considered for MavWorks, students must show mid-ranged financial need and have a 3.0 GPA.
Job openings are posted on MavZone. It is then up to the students to apply and interview for the available positions on campus.
Martin advised those still looking for a job to “go anywhere you might want to work and apply even if they aren’t advertising that they need help.” He said he knows of two places that were not necessarily hiring, but liked the applicant and hired them anyway.
For a list of available MavWorks positions and other on-campus jobs, visit www.coloradomesa.edu/finaid/fawsinfo.html.

tfife@mavs.coloradomesa.edu