Benefits of Student Employment

Learn about the benefits of working while attending school, and find out where and how to apply for part-time jobs.

A part-time job can help you become a better student and get a jump on your career track. Almost two-thirds of UC San Diego undergraduates hold jobs, and nearly half of these students work on campus. Find out why a part-time job is an option you'll definitely want to consider.

Benefits of working part time while attending school:

• Studies show that students who work up to 30 hours a week do just as well or even better academically than those who don't. Working only 12-15 hours a week (as most students do) shouldn't affect your grades.
• Studies also show that students who work on campus are more likely to persist in their studies. Through your job, you'll become better acquainted with faculty, staff, and other students.
• Part-time work allows you to:
  • Perfect time-management skills necessary for academic success
  • Reduce your need for student loans and the resulting indebtedness
  • Gain career-related experience as you clarify goals, acquire skills and self-confidence, and build a network of contacts
• UC San Diego graduates consistently report that part-time employment was their most common and valued source of career-related experience, and they often attribute post-graduation success to their work experience.

How to find a job that's right for you:

• If you've accepted a work-study award (a type of financial aid), it can help pay for your educational expenses.
• Look for work-study and other on- and off-campus jobs online at Handshake, or visit the Career Center.
  • Nearly all off-campus jobs are open to all students regardless of work-study status.
  • Ultimately, work-study students hold only 15% to 20% of on-campus jobs, because most vacancies are opened up to other applicants when employers aren't able to fill them with work-study students.