My freshman year of college was especially successful because I had a job. It sounds counterintuitive, right? College students should focus more on school and academics than anything else. Actually, that’s not quite the case.

Many students find that having an on-campus job extremely beneficial. There is the convenience of having your workplace within walking distance. Having a job as a freshman can help you meet new friends and get acquainted with the campus atmosphere. It is also a great place to make new connections with staff and faculty. Building a positive reputation of yourself as a hard worker can help you land competitive internships later down the road. Of course, the money is great, too!

Having some extra spending money while in school is never a bad thing. Believe it or not, but you might become more adept at time management skills as well. This could even lead to better grades! Some on-campus jobs may allow you to study or do homework in your downtime. Working at the library or front desk of residential halls are examples of such jobs. Other jobs you may find on campus are food service positions in the dining halls, campus safety desk positions, office assistants in various departments, or being in charge of monitoring/cleaning fitness facilities.

If you are wondering how you can look for jobs like the ones listed, usually colleges/universities have their own site for finding jobs and careers. This is where you can find student employment at your school. If you can’t find the website, then a quick call to your school will probably put you in the right direction.

That being said, make sure you have a professional résumé and cover letter prepared! Even if you don’t have a lot of work experience, it shows professionalism to have something prepared. When you go to school and have been hired for a job, I strongly recommend that you bring your Social Security Card. I know it doesn’t sound safe or like a good idea having that kind of sensitive material, but for tax purposes, you will be required to have it with you. My mom had to rush to send me mine through snail mail so that I could get paid. It was so stressful!

I hope that after reading all this you will consider an on-campus job. The benefits are enormous. I am so happy and thankful that I made the decision to work at my school, and I know you will, too