College is expensive, so a student job is a great way to help pay for college. Here are some ideas of jobs and internships to get you started on your job search.
Last updated on November 25, 2023 by College Financial Aid Advice.
Some tutors work for the university, for example the athletics department. The work is usually more regular, as they offer voluntary or mandatory weekly tutoring sessions. Typical pay is $15 - $25 per hour. Let the coaches know you are interested in tutoring.
Private tutoring typically pays more per hour, such as $30 - $50 per hour, but the work is not as regular. Most students are in denial about needing tutoring until after the first mid term, and need even more help as it gets close to finals. This mean you need to get ahead in your own classes, so you can spend more time tutoring the last month of the term, which can be quite lucrative. Let the instructors know you tutor, and if if you did well in that class from them last term, they are more likely to recommend you.
Also don't overlook tutoring jobs for local high school or elementary students.
Be sure to print up some business cards on your computer so you can hand them out, and sign up at your school's tutoring or job center to get the word out.
Being a tutor looks good on your resume, because it shows you are knowledgeable about the subjects. You have to understand it to teach it. Another advantage is it reinforces the topics. For example, if you tutor in math, it will reinforce the math concepts and make you a better student.
If you can't get a paid internship, consider an unpaid internship at your university, a local community organization, or small business. You can still get some great experience, and get units too, that will apply toward graduation.
Some students get work-study opportunities as part of their financial aid package.
This is one of the real work at home jobs. The advantages are you can work from your dorm room, create your own hours, and work as much or as little as you want. When you graduate from college, you will already have a job - working for yourself. This is a job alternative worth considering during this tough job market.
You'll need to choose something you are interested in - football, science, fashion for example, and research the market to determine if your business idea will be profitable. You'll need a computer with high-speed internet access, and some online business development tools. Good luck!
You could also consider being a Resident Advisor or RA, sometimes called a Resident Assistant. This job requires you to live on campus, but can be challenging to work with many types of people. It does provide good leadership experience, which looks good on your resume.
Many of our readers submitted their summer job experiences. Check out some of their ideas at:
More On-Campus Student Job Ideas
Want more ideas for student jobs? Check out More Student Jobs and Student Summer Jobs
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