Student employment is not just to pay for college anymore.
These days most employers look for college graduates with real-world work experience – not just good grades. Students graduating with job-ready skills and competitive résumés are more likely to find employment.
Finding a part-time job in college: Four questions to ask
Two SPU students share their experiences finding and working part-time jobs in college.
As an SPU student working on or off campus, you have the opportunity to gain the experience and tools employers look for in candidates — and earn some money while you’re at it. The Office of Student Employment is here to help.
Job opportunities
To view current job opportunities and apply, please visit Handshake. Each job description will detail how you apply for the position.
Benefits of student employment
You may think that working during college will hurt your GPA, but studies have shown that the opposite is true:
- Students who work during college do just as well or better academically than nonworking students.
- Grades actually improve as students work more hours per week (up to 20).
- Working students are more likely to complete a degree program than nonworking students.
Although student employment may not relate directly to your future career, working while in school or during the summer can help you develop:
- Skills to handle your money and your time
- Ways to connect with others and professional experience
- A list of references
- A professional résumé
Biochemistry major Dylan Marashi ’15: “At SPU, you’ll probably find me wearing chinos, a lab coat, and goggles as I spend countless hours in Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Wade Grabow’s lab. I’m helping him with research related to destroying prostate cancer cells.”
Job search preparation
In order to position yourself as a strong candidate, searching for a job requires that you create a professional résumé, cover letter, LinkedIn profile, list of references, and that you practice your interview skills. You may also want to reflect on your vocational calling and network to explore career options.
The Center for Career and Calling offers online tools and resources, as well as career counselors to assist you with landing a job.
Work study
Work study is offered to all SPU students. Eligibility for government-funded work study programs will be determined by financial need as shown on the FAFSA.
Students
Employers (supervisors)
Student employment at SPU