Five of the Best Jobs to Seek as a College Student
Let’s face it, in today’s economy a college graduate needs every competitive advantage they can get when it comes to landing their ideal first job in the professional world. Stellar grades and involvement in extra circulars, while extremely important, do not provide the real-world work experience that many employers seek in new hires. Taking on a part-time job is not only a perfect resume builder, but is also a great way to achieve some financial independence.
1. Departmental Intern / Research Assistant
What better way to gain the inside-scoop on your field of study than by assisting your professors with research projects and other tasks? You will have the chance to form strong relationships with faculty members; be privy to information, opportunities and knowledge your classmates may not be; and be able to “sink your teeth” into projects that may reflect your future career path.
2. Bookstore Clerk
A job at your campus bookstore will help put a few extra dollars in your bank account and may also afford you a discount on textbooks, which can help offset a substantial college expense.
3. Tutor
Tutoring fellow classmates, or even local high school or middle school students, is advantageous for numerous reasons. The ability to properly teach someone is a beneficial skill to have. It requires one to be a good listener, a problem solver and a leader and also often entails looking at something from an entirely new perspective.
4. Social Media Marketing Assistant
Social media is here to stay and today’s youth certainly has an advantage over their predecessors, simply because it is a large part of many of their daily lives. Put that knowledge to work for you. Offer your services to your campus’ marketing department. Whether it’s assisting with a Facebook page, a Twitter account or writing a blog geared toward incoming students, this type of job will help you improve your communication skills while providing a valuable service to your university.
5. Resident Advisor
The cost to live on campus can be high, but part of the fun of college is campus life. Gaining a position as a resident advisor often means free (or at least reduced) room and board. You will typically be able to squeeze in some study time while on duty and helping to resolve conflicts between fellow students is also great preparation for the team environment found at most companies.
