Why working on campus can benefit your college student
An on-campus job or internship can be much more than a paycheck. Student employment can help Buffs build professional skills, meet new people and gain valuable experience – all while keeping academics as the top priority.Ìý
Whether your student is looking for their first part-time job or hoping to explore a future career, working on campus can help them make the most of their time at CU ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½.Ìý
1. Academics come firstÌý
One of the biggest advantages of working on campus is flexibility. Student supervisors understand that classes come first and work schedules are built around academic commitments.Ìý
Most students work about 10–15 hours each week, with a maximum of 25 hours. During busy times like midterms or finals, many departments offer additional flexibility so students can stay focused on their coursework.Ìý
That means your student can earn income, gain experience and still prioritize their education.Ìý
2. They’ll build connections and find communityÌý
For many students, an on-campus job becomes a place to belong.Ìý
Working alongside other Buffs helps your student build friendships and expand their campus network. They'll also work closely with faculty and staff who can become mentors, provide career advice and write future letters of recommendation.Ìý
Feeling connected to campus can make a big difference in a student’s college experience, especially during their first year.Ìý
3. They’ll graduate with experience employers valueÌý
Employers look for more than a degree. They want graduates who can communicate, solve problems, manage their time and work well with others. On-campus jobs help students build those skills while they’re still in school. In fact, many on-campus employers offer student employment internships, which can make a student stand out to employers when listed on a resume.Ìý
Depending on the position, students may also gain hands-on experience in areas like:Ìý
- Marketing and social mediaÌýÌý
- Event planningÌýÌý
- ResearchÌýÌý
- Graphic designÌýÌý
- Data analyticsÌýÌý
- Recreation and wellnessÌýÌý
- Customer serviceÌýÌý
- Leadership and supervisionÌý
Whether your student already knows what career they want or is still exploring, an on-campus job can help them build a stronger resume before graduation.
Help your student get startedÌý
If your student is interested in working on campus, encourage them to explore opportunities early in the semester.Ìý
Searching for on-campus jobsÌý
Every CU ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ student has a Handshake account, where they can search and apply for hourly and work-study positions across campus. Encourage them to check out major employers of students, including the Rec Center, Environmental Center, University Memorial Center (UMC) and Campus Dining & Hospitality.Ìý
On-Campus Student Job & Professional Experience FairÌý
Meeting campus employers in person is a great way for students to learn about available positions, ask questions and apply for jobs. The will take place Aug. 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the UMC Ballroom.Ìý
Explore Career ServicesÌý
Career Services helps students prepare for every stage of the job search, from finding campus jobs and polishing resumes to preparing for interviews and exploring career paths.Ìý