Great Part-Time Jobs for College Students

PART-TIME JOBS FORGreat CollegeStudents

Most college students leave high school and discover they’ve got more freedom. And that leads to greater challenges. Where to get the money to enjoy all this independence? Like, maybe, it’s time to get a job.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN (EMT-B)

Working as an EMT-B is the perfect job for health sciences, pre-med, and nursing majors. In most states, this role requires 120 hours of training, and many universities offer for-credit classes to get your EMT certification. Once you're recognized by the state, you can work in an emergency department or in the back of an ambulance. If you work for a private company, you'll transport elderly patients to medical appointments or home from the hospital, giving you a first-hand look at many chronic illnesses. You can pick up a few shifts per week during the school year or work full-time over the summer to earn serious cash. Either way, you'll be enhancing your studies and building credentials to seriously impress future employers.

BRAND AMBASSADOR

Companies need young, high-energy workers to represent their brands at night clubs, festivals, and concerts. Brand ambassadors hand out product samples, collect consumer contact information, and give away branded gear like T-shirts and water bottles. If you're an extrovert, this is one of the easiest ways to make money and enjoy flexible hours. You can choose your own schedule and make $15 to $30 an hour while attending fun events. Look on Craigslist and your school's job posting board for gigs or ask workers for tips on finding a job at the next big event you attend.

COMPUTER LAB ASSISTANT

If you have a basic understanding of computers, you can enjoy a low-stress, on-campus job working in a student lab. You'll help users print documents, open emails, and access online course materials, but most of your work hours will be spent sitting behind a desk. This is a great job when you need to finish homework or study. Plus, putting this role on your resume will signal to hiring managers that you've got a high level of technological competence.

WRITING TUTOR

Most universities have a writing center for students who want an extra set of eyes to go over class papers or graduate-school applications. Working here will hone your own writing ability because you're exposed to many different levels and styles of writing. If no clients are waiting for help, you'll be able to work on your own papers or talk to other tutors. Every college graduate thinks they're a great writer; this job will show that you can back up your claims.

Look for a part-time job that's directly related to your field of study or concentrate on finding a flexible work schedule. Either way, you'll be keeping your student loans low, learning workplace skills, and meeting new friends and professional contacts. Working part-time is one of the smartest things you can do as an undergraduate student.