Outside of tuition, books, and school supplies, being a college student can be expensive. If you’re looking to earn some extra cash, there are a variety of opportunities both on and off campus that can help alleviate some of the financial stress.
Source: Instagram, @shuorientation
Work-study is a federally funded financial aid program that allows students the opportunity to apply for jobs on campus.
“I found my job through attending a career fair at the beginning of the year, open to students who were offered work-study from the university,” said freshman Angelica Smith.
Smith is a Career Ambassador for the Center for Career & Professional Development. For an hourly rate of $16.94, the minimum wage in Connecticut, she performs administrative tasks and reviews student résumés, among other responsibilities.
“Having a job while in college has not only allowed me to build connections with my peers and those older than me, but it has also allowed me to communicate better and be more organized,” said Smith.
Annie Suffredini, executive director of Career Development, emphasizes the importance of students having jobs in college for their professional development.
“Things like time management, communication, teamwork, and professionalism all come from balancing work with classes and other responsibilities,” said Suffredini. “These experiences help students feel more confident and prepared when they enter the workforce.”
Sophomore Trinity Savage works as an Assistant Mail Clerk at the SHU PAD, serves as a Resident Success Assistant in Thea Bowman Hall, and is a member of the women’s rowing team—all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA as a full-time student.
“My time management skills have increased drastically from having a job on campus,” said Savage.
For students not awarded work-study or unable to find a job on campus, other opportunities can be found off campus in babysitting, pet sitting, dog walking, house sitting and more.
“I found most of my jobs through Facebook groups for babysitters, moms, and local community groups in towns like Fairfield, Westport and Easton,” said senior Anya Pineo. “I posted a picture of myself, talked about my babysitting experience, and shared my availability.”
For an hourly rate of about $25, depending on the job and number of kids, she appreciates the flexibility of the job.
“I try to schedule my classes earlier in the day, so I am usually done by around 2 p.m. at the latest,” said Pineo. “That makes it easier to take after-school babysitting jobs, usually from around 3 to 6 p.m.”
While some students have jobs to relieve financial pressure for their families, other factors contribute to their decision.
“A job can help with tuition and everyday expenses,” said Suffredini. “But students also look for opportunities to gain experience, explore career interests, and start building their résumé while they’re still in college.”
Through gained experience, students establish meaningful connections.
“One family liked me so much that they offered to let me live with them for a year, so I wouldn’t have to pay for housing, which was really kind,” said Pineo. “Another family helped me start my web design business and even invested in it.”
To assist students with employment, the university offers multiple resources.
“One of the best resources students have is Handshake, our career platform where employers specifically recruit our students for on-campus jobs, internships and full-time roles,” said Suffredini. “Beyond that, the Center for Career & Professional Development offers résumé and cover letter reviews, interview preparation, career coaching, and networking events with employers.”
Whether through work-study or jobs unaffiliated with the university, students recognize the benefits of working while in college.
“I think having a job in college can be really valuable,” said Pineo. “It teaches responsibility and helps you build relationships with people who can support you and help you grow.”
