Part-time Jobs for Students

In the midst of midterms, thick textbooks, and ten-page papers, it can be frustrating to realize that the rent still isn't paid and another semester of tuition is right around the corner. But with the right attitude and a list of good ideas, you just might be able to beat the ongoing trend of starving students. Simultaneous work and study can actually be to your ultimate benefit.

Get Double-Credit
The first rule to working as a college student ,or perhaps to being a college student in general, is to find something that gives you "double credit." Isn't it great when a class counts as a GE and fulfills a requirement for your major? Well, having a job while you're continuing education can do the same thing. Before you look anywhere, consider what kind of work you'll be doing in your future career. Are there paid internships available (or, more likely, jobs that can be argued into counting as an internship)? Can you TA for a class that is related to your field of work? Do any professors on campus need research assistants? Be sure to investigate these options, and don't be afraid to find a mentor who can advise you. Asking for help can save a lot of time and energy.

Still don't know what you want to do just yet? Take this opportunity to find a job that will help you discover your interests as you work. If you think you might be interested in writing, look into working at an on-campus magazine or newspaper staff. A lot of these positions are volunteer, but go ahead and ask questions, and play up any previous experience you might have had in high school and see what is available. If your interests are more geared toward mathematics or science (and if you're good at these subjects) look into tutoring other students. There is always demand for this. And you will kill two birds with one, big stone. You can test the waters of teaching and find out just how much math and science you can handle before your head explodes!

On-campus Jobs
If you're just looking for a regular, everyday part-time job, most schools have classifieds on their website where students can search for available on-campus positions. These, too, can be a great benefit. For example, working at a cafeteria or university food court can usually get you discounts on meals, and you'll make friends with your peers at the same time. Colleges also need custodial workers, and some are willing to hire students. If you don't mind cleaning windows or vacuuming, look into this kind of work (and remember that graveyard custodians usually get paid more). Plus, don't forget to check college bookstores, testing centers, and libraries for "Help Wanted" postings. It's always nice to have a job within walking distance (assuming you don't live too far from campus) to save on gas.

Also, this is a little known fact about working on campus, but unlike most of the workforce you can actually opt out of social security while you are working for a school that you are attending full-time! This means that a campus job paying $9/hour might actually pay more than an off-campus job paying $9.50 because you can avoid this charge.

Being a student is all about learning to multitask and use your resources, so take advantage of the opportunities around you. Staying afloat can be difficult, but most of the time you don't have to look too far to find an adequate pair of flippers.