The 5 Part-Time Jobs College Students Need

By Kylie Exline on March 15, 2016

For many of us in college, the pain of working a part-time job is a real thing. While our friends get to go out and party on a typical Friday night, we are forced to cover a shift at work. It is an unfortunate reality.

Anyone will tell you that his or her college job was or is anything but serious — unless it actually pertains to your future career, that is. And if that is the case, then keep it.

It is necessary to pay the bills, pay for extra-curricular activities, or simply anything fun related. Read below to discover the best part-time jobs for college students.

Research Related

This job is great because you are killing two birds with one stone, maybe even literally if into science or evolution. Most majors require a specific amount of research hours completed in the field you are in. This way, you are earning your credit while also earning a paycheck. Just make sure that you actually get paid for your work, and it is not considered as volunteer or as an internship.

There are usually many students that are also finishing their research; therefore if you need a day off, it will not be the end of the world for someone to be able to cover for you.

Plus, keep in mind that this is a resume builder, people. Grad schools, scholarship donors, and especially your parents will be proud of you for initiating an aspect related to your future. Nice job.

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Student Housing

These jobs are super flexible given there are multiple college kids working there already. They understand if you want off for a game, or have an assignment due at midnight that you totally forgot about. Many of them have been there themselves and would not mind lending a helping hand.

These are also great because they usually offer discounts on your rent when you live there as well. They know firsthand the struggle of working while in school and can be very lenient.

Do remember that this can be annoying when it is move in/out day, or if something goes wrong with a tenant’s water pipe in the kitchen. Every job will have its pros and cons though, so do not expect the perfect job as a 20 year old.

Anything on Campus

There are various jobs you can have on your college campus. The options include working with food, the library, the gym, or even as a mentor for specific students, such as Honors kids or those with disabilities. There really are endless possibilities that come with great benefits, both physically and financially.

The good thing about working on campus is that your job will operate during school hours for the most part. So if we get off for Martin Luther King, Jr. day, we also do not have to slave away at our boring fast food job. It can be tiring to be forced on campus all day though, and sometimes a change in scenery can be a much-needed thing.

Tutor

Being a tutor comes with big benefits. You usually get paid a decent amount per hour, have great connections, and of course have another resume mention. You can create your own schedule, make your own hours, and hire your own clients personally. It really is a win.

Tutoring jobs can also be offered on your college campus, such as at your local Reading and Writing Center, or at the library. Plus, you will feel smart and nice at the same time. How great.

Uber

More recent to the college job market, Uber is great given you make your own hours of availability. If you need some extra cash, it works out perfectly. If you need fewer hours during finals week, it has got you covered.

You get paid more than minimum wage, are given random advantages, and can even create (drunk) friends along the way. Plus, if you need a quick study break, might as well pick up kids from the bar down the street. You can live vicariously through them.

It is no secret that none of us want to work while in college. We would rather party, sleep, or even be able to go out of the city every once in a while randomly, without having to take off six weeks in advance.

There are advantages to working in college, even if we do not necessarily understand them in the moment. We build friendship with coworkers, learn time management skills, and of course the true value of a penny.

Just think, it could always be worse, like missing the first tailgate for football season, or having to work a double during exams. Attempt to focus on the positive, and before you know it, you will be on your way to your actual career path.

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