Working while in college isn’t just about earning extra cash. It’s an opportunity to build your resume, develop valuable career skills, and prepare for life after graduation. Choosing part-time jobs that align with your career goals can make you more marketable and ready for the job market. In this blog, we’ll cover the best types of part-time jobs for career growth, tips for balancing work with study, and how to use resources at the University of Maryland (UMD) to find the right opportunities.
Aligning Work with Your Career Goals
Before accepting a part-time job, take some time to identify your long-term career goals and evaluate your current workload. Knowing where you want to go professionally helps you choose jobs that align with your goals and offer the most value for your future career. Assessing your academic and personal commitments also helps you determine how much time you can realistically dedicate to work without compromising your studies.
With a clear career path, focus on jobs that provide relevant experience, build essential skills, and allow you to network within your desired field. This strategic approach ensures each job you take contributes meaningfully toward your career goals. Balancing work with study is crucial—prioritize tasks, use a planner to manage your responsibilities, seek flexible work hours, and communicate openly with employers about your academic commitments.
The Best Student Employment Opportunities for Developing Career Skills
Once you have a clear understanding of your career goals, explore different types of part-time jobs to find the best fit. Here’s a breakdown of common job types and how to determine which one aligns with your long-term plans:
1. Internships
Best For: Students aiming to gain experience directly related to their field of study.
How to Choose: Look for internships that offer hands-on projects and mentorship opportunities, allowing you to develop specific “career skills” such as project management or industry-specific knowledge. If your goal is to work in a competitive industry, internships can provide the experience and networking necessary to break into the field.
2. On-Campus Jobs
Best For: Students who want convenience and flexibility.
How to Choose: Select on-campus positions that are related to your major or interests. For example, a job in the campus IT department can be great for computer science majors, while a role in student services might suit those studying psychology or education. These jobs are also ideal if you want to stay connected with the university community while gaining relevant experience.
3. Research Assistant Positions
Best For: Students interested in pursuing a career in academia or research-intensive fields.
How to Choose: Find positions that align with your specific research interests or career focus. Working closely with faculty can also provide mentorship opportunities and potentially lead to co-authorship on academic papers, which is valuable for those planning to attend graduate school.
4. Tutoring or Teaching Assistant Roles
Best For: Those who enjoy teaching and want to improve their communication and leadership skills.
How to Choose: Consider these roles if your long-term goal involves education, public speaking, or any field that requires strong interpersonal skills. Teaching others can deepen your understanding of the subject matter and improve your ability to convey complex information clearly.
5. Customer Service or Administrative Jobs
Best For: Building foundational skills that are valuable in any career.
How to Choose: These roles are excellent for developing “resume-building” skills like problem-solving, multitasking, and customer relations. If your career path requires strong organizational and people skills, a customer service or administrative job can provide a strong foundation.
Leveraging Campus and SECU Resources Exclusive for UMD Students
As a University of Maryland student, you have access to a wealth of resources to help you find the perfect part-time job that aligns with your career goals and supports your financial wellness. Thanks to the partnership between SECU and UMD, you have exclusive opportunities to enhance your job search and financial skills. Here’s how you can take advantage:
- UMD Job Board: Check the job board regularly for both on-campus and off-campus opportunities that match your career interests and fit your schedule.
- Career Services: Take advantage of resume workshops, interview preparation, and career counseling offered by UMD’s career center to refine your job search and enhance your application materials.
- SECU and UMD Partnership: SECU is dedicated to supporting UMD students to achieve financial wellness. Annie Weinschenk is your dedicated resource for navigating financial decisions while balancing work and study. She organizes events with clubs and student organizations to discuss financial topics important to you. Have questions about budgeting, saving, or managing work income? Contact Annie at annie.weinschenk@secumd.com for personalized advice.
Additionally, SECU offers an exclusive University of Maryland student promotion that provides financial tools and benefits tailored for UMD students. Use these resources to manage your money wisely while working and studying. By leveraging the resources available through UMD and SECU, you can find the perfect job that aligns with your career goals and enhances your financial wellness. Start exploring your options today and take the next step towards a successful future!