Getting an On Campus Job

 

On way to make balancing a job and school a little easier is to work on campus. This is my third year working on campus and I've held two different positions. There are definitely many benefits to working on campus. They have to work with your school schedule and you can work between your classes. In addition, you will probably get to meet important people who can serve as mentors and references later. Having work experience from a university also  looks great on a resume!

 

The beginning of each semester is a great time to look for openings since most offices are restocking student employee positions after others have graduated. Here are some of my tips for getting an on campus job:

 

• Actually read the job description. This will save you a lot of time. Don't just apply for every job listed, but tailor your resume for a few that fit your talents and needs. For many jobs you have to be eligible for a work study. Others request that students have a certain major or are a specific year in school.
• Do not lie on your application and resume. This seems like a no brainer but you'd be surprised. It is possible that those hiring you will actually check out your transcript to see you really have a 4.00 GPA.
• Dress up for the interview, even if the job is casual. Even if it is acceptable to wear jeans in the area you are applying for, I suggest at least wearing a pair of khakis and a nice shirt. It makes you stand out from all of the other students in t-shirts and shows that you care.
• Show school spirit. Show the employers that you really enjoy being on campus and take pride in the university. Do not wear anything from another school!
• Get to know your professors and staff. Faculty and staff may let you know about recent job openings, and they serve as great references!
• Change your voicemail message. If a potential employer calls about an interview you don't want them to hear your voicemail message that tricks people into thinking you answered or just says "You know what to do, leave a message." This is all about showing maturity and professional behavior.

Once you get the job, remember that these are real jobs and they should be taken seriously. You might have close relationships with the people you are working with but that isn't an excuse to slack off your job. This is a great opportunity to gain work experience and many people would love to have a campus job, so treat it accordingly.

 

I hope these tips are helpful! For more information on making your resume and interview tips, visit NKU's Career Development Center website.