November 21, 2022
College offers valuable experience and learning opportunities both in and out of the classroom. Many campuses have jobs for students to gain experience before entering the workforce both on and off campus. A part-time job offers benefits to prepare students for a successful work-life after graduation.
Ben Navarro, founder of Meeting Street Scholarship said, “My college job helped me develop my soft skills and prepare for life after college. Experiencing some of the working world is part of a well-rounded education.”
We spoke to Clemson University sophomores and Meeting Street Scholarship recipients Montanna Lussier (pictured on the left) who works in the Clemson Psychology Department and remotely for RippleMatch, Eden Thompson (pictured on the right) who works at Cocobowlz, and Allen Gomez (pictured in the middle), who works at the Clemson Library, to hear why they think it’s important to work in college.
Here are the nine benefits of having a part-time job in college from our scholarship recipients:
1. Gain valuable work experience
When you graduate from college and enter the workforce, in addition to a college degree, you have work experience that can help when applying for jobs. It can also help bolster your confidence when starting a new career.
2. Strengthen your resume
Having a job in college shows future employers you can professionally conduct yourself, be reliable, know how to communicate, and have workplace skills an employer values. It can also help you negotiate a more substantial base salary or benefits package.
3. Get job references
Most jobs require references, and listing a previous employer or coworker who can speak highly of your work ethic goes a long way when you’re being considered for a job. “You never know who knows someone or where they have connections,” said Allen. “As long as I cultivate relationships and perform well, I’ll have great references on my resume.”
4. Refine time management skills
“Time management can help you prioritize your time in class, studying, working, and social activities,” Eden said. “With so much going on, you’ll learn to be more organized and use your time wisely to manage all your activities.”
5. Learning opportunities
Each work environment offers learning opportunities from coworkers, employers, and situations. You will encounter people with different experiences or areas of expertise that can help refine or increase your skills and make you a robust, well-rounded employee.
6. Work in different settings
Many companies offer employees the option to work remotely, in an office, or a mix of both. Experiencing remote and in-person environments can help you determine your preference after college to find job opportunities that fit your needs. “I have two jobs, one is in person, and the other is remote,” Montanna said. “I prefer in person because I enjoy the social interactions with people during the day and will keep that in mind when I apply to jobs after college.”
7. Experience different industries
You can hold a part-time job in an industry without making a long-term commitment. If it’s not the right fit, you can find a new opportunity that aligns with your interests. Gaining this experience now can help direct you to your preferred industry after college.
8. Learn how to budget
“Managing my money properly now will help set me up for success in the future because I will have something to fall back on if I need it,” said Eden. Learning how to budget the money you make, spend, and save is an important skill and will help you prepare for life after college.
9. Earn spending money
It’s always nice to have a little extra cash!
A few final tips: Eden said, “consider the pros and cons of the job opportunity, make sure you have the time to devote to your schoolwork and a job, and don’t be afraid to start–we all have to begin somewhere.” While these are all excellent reasons to hold a part-time job, it is important to keep up with your schoolwork to maintain your scholarship and graduate on time.
For more student resources and information about the Meeting Street Scholarship Fund, visit MeetingStreetScholarshipFund.org. For updates, news, and more, follow us on Facebook and Instagram and sign up for our newsletter.
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