Working while in college can take some time management, but the pay-offs can go beyond earning a paycheck.
Some Benefits of Working while in College
- You are helping to pay for your education.
- All jobs count as work experience that you can put on a resume to help you move on to the next job.
- Employers often respect the fact that you worked while in college, regardless of the job.
- You can gain references that will say positive things about you (see the tips in Employee Guidelines).
- You can build workplace skills that give you a professional edge such as computer, communication, time-management, and problem-solving skills, along with a strong work ethic. (See the tips in Employee Guidelines.)
- You can learn about what jobs at your workplace are like. (Another good resource for learning about different jobs is CandidCareer.com.)
Now That I Found a Job Ad I Like, How Do I Apply?
- You should make the first move by contacting the employer as directed in the ad.
- All job announcements include a contact person, address, and phone number.
- Be prepared for an on-site interview when you inquire about the position.
- To help you prepare for the interview, review our Interviewing Tips and Employee Guidelines.
- Also, show your soon-to-be supervisor initiative by reading the Telephone Guidelines for Student Employees
Finding a Job Without a Job Ad
In addition to applying to job ads, such as those on the on-campus and off-campus job boards, students can sometimes find a part-time job by approaching area businesses and simply asking if they are hiring. Choose businesses you are familiar with, such as area restaurants, and ask to talk to a manager about applying for a job.
You might be asked if you would like to fill out an application even if there are no current openings. You can often complete the application online or bring it back later.
It can be a good idea to follow-up several days or a few weeks later to ask if there are any new openings.
Networking to Find a Job
Networking is another way to find employment. Start with family members, friends, neighbors, and professors. Ask them "who do you know who might know about finding a job in [list your field of interest]?" Eventually, one contact will lead to another, and another, and so on, until you get a referral that is useful. You never know where your next job lead may come from.
With Planning, Buses Can Help You Reach Employers
With an I-card, students can ride all Indiana County Transit Authority IndiGO buses at no per-ride cost(it is pre-paid through IUP fees). These local buses have routes and schedules that can take you to off-campus employers such as the Indiana Mall. It takes planning to fit your work schedule to the bus schedules, but it may be something you want to consider.
Graduate Students
Graduate students can sometimes be awarded assistantships in addition to other job opportunities on and off campus.
State and Federal Work-Study Jobs
State and federal work-study programs can sometimes provide funds for off-campus jobs in addition to on-campus employment.
International Students
If you are an international student, you will need to read about the rules and policies that apply to your situation. The Office of International Education has guidelines international students must follow if they want to work while attending IUP.
Scholarships for Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors
In addition to finding a job, it is good to be aware that many scholarships are only available to students who have completed a set number of credits. It can pay to do some research and apply for a few that are a good match for you each year. Watch your e-mail for announcements about scholarships from your department or major at IUP and be sure to apply by the deadlines.
Full-time Employment
If you are looking for a full-time, permanent job outside IUP, please visit the Career and Professional Development Center's website.
If you are seeking a non-student employee position at IUP, please visit the IUP Human Resources website.