Student Jobs and Where to Find Them

Posted by Kayleen

Thinking back, I remember when I was getting ready to come to the University of Alaska Fairbanks. I knew I'd need a job while I went to school, but I just couldn't figure out where to go. It seemed like I would have to wait in order to apply for jobs, and that I would be better off finding one off campus. Boy was I wrong. It turns out that UAF has a phenomenal Career Services office, and their website is super easy to navigate. There's also the option to check out UAK Jobs, where you can actually find and apply to on campus jobs. Some people definitely prefer to get off campus for work--if you're already spending all your class time on campus, it feels good to get away--but on campus jobs are a great option if you're looking to save gas and work around your schedule as a student. 

I held an off campus job my second semester here at UAF. Though I enjoyed the work, it was hard to balance 5 classes on campus, 20 hours of work off campus, and living in the opposite direction as my job. The following semester, I decided to look at my options on campus. I'm so glad I did! I ended up being hired as a Student Assistant to a Dean, which has resulted in making some fantastic connections, a really fun work environment, and the ability to fit in work around my class schedule. Now, instead of only being able to work when I'm done for the day, I can work in between classes, and get home before 5pm. Before, I wasn't even able to start work before 5pm! Whenever I have a block of time over 45 minutes, I can come into work, get what I need to do done, and then head right back to class. They're even happy to give me some time off if I ever need extra study time. 

Next March will mark my second full year of working in this office. It's been such a fantastic experience. But what's even better about on campus jobs is that not all of them stick you in an office. If you love to shovel snow, there's a student job for that. If you're interested in a career in law enforcement, you can find a job at the Police Department on campus. If you have a burning desire to do research, there are many Research Assistant positions waiting to be filled. There are also many more that I'm not mentioning, as well.  

In summary, UAF has some great options for employment, and if you're not sure where to start, go towww.uaf.edu/career or call Career Services at (907) 474-7596. They're super friendly and always willing to help.  If you want to know what having a student job is like, don't hesitate to ask!