The first year of college is filled with new exciting experiences, new classes and unfortunately new expenses.

College is costly, so getting a job is not a bad idea. Luckily, finding employment on campus is within reach.

Avery Wzientek, a spring 2023 graduate with a degree in fashion merchandising, is one of thousands of students that worked on-campus her junior and senior year.

“I was an assistant at the office for the Vice President of Student Affairs,” Wzientek said. “I heard about the job opening in a sorority Facebook group post and was immediately interested.”

Wzientek said that working on campus was beneficial because her employers scheduled around her classes, and the job was conveniently located in the heart of campus.

Students can search for jobs using the app, Handshake. On-campus employment opportunities are posted on the app and students are encouraged to apply directly through the job posting.

“If you’re interested in something, you should reach out and get connected,”  Wzientek said. “That makes an impression.”

Handshake has positions posted for various on-campus jobs such as campus safety assistants, resident assistants, recreation assistants, tutors and more.

Senior theatre studies major Maura Mascarin, a resident assistant and 2023 Flashguide, recommends that incoming freshmen get familiar with on-campus positions during their first semester.

“It’s a good idea to get adjusted to your classes during your first semester because ultimately school does come first,” Mascarin said. “For getting on-campus positions, students should look at the Peer Success Academy class… many jobs require you to take that class in their job application.”

Peer Success Academy, more commonly known as the Peer Leadership Training Course, is a two-credit-hour class that is a prerequisite for many jobs on campus, such as resident assistant, Flashguide, student success leader and more.

Off-campus jobs, like working for businesses in downtown Kent, are also available for students.

“The most helpful thing is to keep your eye out while exploring campus… a lot of places will post that they’re hiring,” Mascarin said. “You can always walk into most places and ask if they are hiring…they’ll appreciate someone walking in and taking the step to apply in person.”

Working while in school can be a big responsibility, Mascarin pointed out.

“Make sure your school work comes first because that’s why you’re here,” Mascarin said. “Make sure you schedule out your time… it’s helpful and will keep you accountable.”

For more resources and information on getting a job as a first year, the Career Exploration and Development Center will host a student employment fair Aug. 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Student Center room 218.

Erin Sullivan is a reporter.
Contact her at [email protected].