October 2002

Up for Discussion: Student Employment

Should you encourage your first-year student to get a part-time job? Or, if your student is eager to work, should you talk him or her out of it?

These are not easy questions, because the student's decision can affect finances, grades, social life and even jobs after college.

"The most important thing parents can do is recognize the strengths and weaknesses of their children," says Pat Gutierrez, manager of the Student Employment Center. "If students were multitasking in high school, able to maintain their grades, be on a team, and hold a job, they will probably be able to juggle in a new environment."

On the other hand, Gutierrez has noticed that some students who are shy or homesick also thrive on the job. "Some find that home environment in the workplace," she says.

Marc Morales, a senior who has held several jobs, notes that, "working around other people, you just become friends. You make connections."

During his sophomore year, however, Marc found himself spending too many hours driving a Unitrans bus. His grades suffered, so he changed jobs. Studies have shown that working students do better in school, but only if they work 10-12 hours or less.

Should a student work off campus or on campus? Off-campus jobs sometimes pay better but may be less accommodating of student schedules. Campus jobs are closer to dorms and classes, and supervisors tend to be flexible, recognizing that students have papers and exams.

"The students who are happiest," says Pat Gutierrez, "are those who do something they like or something they've always thought about but never tried." Freshmen may have to start in simple jobs, but as they move up the academic ladder and become more skilled and confident, better jobs open up.

Even in simple jobs, a procrastinator learns to organize. A sleepyhead is forced to be prompt.

"I also talk to kids who come here in tears because they've just been let go from their job," adds Gutierrez. "I say, 'It's better to make a mistake in this job than make it in your real job.' If you have to learn a hard lesson, it's better to do it in a student job and not in the job you've gone to school for all your life."

For information on specific opportunities, both on and off campus, students should check the Student Employment Web site.

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