Need a job? The spring semester is a good time to get started. You may want to look into work study jobs, how they are different from other jobs, and how you find one.
Students who can demonstrate a financial need can be eligible for the Federal Work-Study Program. This program awards qualifying students a certain amount of money from the program to pay for college expenses. The jobs they work at may benefit the community or relate to the student’s course of study.
These jobs differ from regular part-time jobs in that they are mostly on campus, although some may be at businesses that have arrangements with the schools. Hours can’t exceed the initial award. Students can lose financial aid if they earn too much.
Some typical work study jobs are:
- Lab assistant
- Daycare assistant
- Tutoring
- Administrative help
- Marketing support
- Event promotions
- Campus tour guide
- Student union staff
Many students find the work study job beneficial because it only takes place during the semester, so when they go on break at the end of the semester, there is no conflict. These jobs are usually flexible according to the students’ schedules.
Another advantage is that because it’s a form of financial aid, it lowers how much money you take out in student loans, so there’s less to pay back.
See OU’s web page on the Federal Work Study program. Deadline to apply is January 15, 2020.