College Strategies

Lesson 7: Part Time Jobs: the Good and the Ugly

Things to be Aware of

No matter what you do, first try to find something that is related to your field of study. Even if it is just remotely related; meaning that you will have to use a skill you will have to apply after graduation as well. The big plus if you get a job like that is the experience on your resume. It will give you a very big edge over all your fellow students graduating with “warehouse help” on their resume instead of “junior project assistant” for example. Be careful with glorified terms; sometimes a “personal assistant” is not much else than a cleaner and a nanny. If you are invited for an interview ask clearly what the duties are, or inquire about those before even applying if you are in doubt.

You have to talk to your employer about hours; don’t just accept any odd hour you are given but talk to them about your academic commitments and which hours will suit you best. You can reach common ground, but especially with off-campus jobs you have to be more forceful because employers can be less understanding.

The work you do is taxable income, usually you can choose if you want to get the tax deducted right away or if you want to “owe” it and pay later. If you know you will be making less in one year than the minimum taxable income, then don’t bother having it deducted. Unless if you like getting a big check in the mail at the end of the year!

Make sure the contract you sign states the amount of hours your are expected to work, the salary you will be paid and the term of the contract. If there are any doubts later on you have these facts black on white.

Before asking a day off to study or write a test/exam you need to let your employer know far in advance. It is not uncommon to be asked to look for a replacement yourself; someone who will be able to take over your shift for you. Keep this in mind and always be friendly to your coworkers. It improves the atmosphere and you never know when you might need someone to fill in for you.

You have to be creative if you look for a job. Look beyond the obvious and you will find something more fun and original. Why not set up your own small business? It might sound scary but most businesses do not need a large investment to start up with. You can even employ other students! Look around your area, are there a lot of new houses? Perhaps you can start a painters business. This is just an idea to get you going, everyone is different and you have to really look around to see what’s missing and could do great.

If you are really good at certain subjects, consider tutoring. You can tutor high school kids and later if you did really well in your first year even freshmen! Advertise your services on websites, message and bulletin boards, in shops and in grocery stores.

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