Working While On Campus

                While you are at school, more times than not your money in your wallet is probably a little low. Hey, it might even be non-existent. If you’re like me, you probably hate asking your parents for money. Or maybe, they’re tired of dishing out money. One way to fix the problem of low cash flow is to get a JOB! Yes, I said it. Get a job.

                If you were awarded Federal Work Study, I would highly recommend that you take advantage of it. Work study provides you with the opportunity to earn money from part-time employment to help you cover the costs of postsecondary education. Work study is great, especially if you have little to no work experience. Most times, wages are more than minimum wage.  Most job locations are located on campus, but a lot of colleges offer off campus jobs as well.

                Another option is to find off campus jobs, such as working at McDonalds, Dairy Queen, or retail shops. Off campus jobs are great because some of these employers let you transfer job locations. So if during the summer you still want to work, talk to your manager about transferring to a location in or near your hometown. Although working off campus can be rewarding, it poses a major con. Being able to get to your job from campus can often be a problem, mainly if you don’t have a car and you have to depend on public transportation.

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                Before you decide whether or not you want to work period, you must see if working will pose a conflict with your schedule. It is very easy to burn out when your plate is full. If you think you can manage it, I would say full steam ahead! Working during college eases your reliance on your parents, thus making you more independent. It’s also a great thing to include on your resume. Whatever you choose be smart about it! Grades come first!

References:

     Federal work-study (FWS) program . (2011, December 12). Retrieved March 28, 2012,  from U.S. Department of Education website: http://www2.ed.gov/programs/fws/index.html

     Orszag, J. M., Orszag, P. R., & Whitmore, D. M. (2001, August). Learning and earning: Working in college . Retrieved March 28, 2012, from Upromise Inc. website: http://www.brockport.edu/career01/upromise.htm

     Working while in College. (n.d.). Retrieved March 28, 2012, from CampusGrotto website: http://www.campusgrotto.com/working-while-in-college.html