Work-study program gives students employment opportunities

2/7/08

By Catherine Story
Business Manager

Work-study is an easy way for students who qualify to earn money on campus. When students choose their work-study at the beginning of the fall semester some jobs are more popular than others.

“We have more people coming and asking specifically for the library and athletics work studies,” Linda Wacholder, director of career services, said.

“Public Safety and the mail room are also popular work studies, “ Darlene Gilman, staff assistant, said.

“All work studies close quickly,” Gilman said, “ There is only a limited number on campus.”

“I like my work study because it will help me in my future career as an English teacher and a writer,” Trish Pennypacker, a junior, said. She works in the academic center as a writing tutor.

“When someone comes in and leaves knowing that they understand what they came for it’s a good feeling,” said Pennypacker, “Another plus is that it’s quiet and you can get your homework done.”

“I like working at the circulation desk because I get to see a lot of professors and students from my classes and chat with them,” Alia Wedemeger, a sophomore, said.

“I also get to do homework,” Wedemeger said.

“The flexible hours are another benefit.” Wedemeger said, “I only have class on Tuesday and Thursday and I get to work between classes.”

George Hacking has four students working for Public Safety on work-study.

“It’s a fun place to work,” Hacking said, “ Students are not usually tied to a desk.”

“Students get the opportunity to get outside and interact with students and faculty,” Hacking said. “They can also be held accountable for what could be a very serious job.”

“It’s an easy way to earn money,” Ashley Cutting, a freshman who works in public safety, said.

The mailroom is also a popular work-study and the reason was a little different.

“Harry Swett is why I like working here,” Tasia Bolduc, a second year associate degree student, said. “He’s a really positive guy who loves life.”

“Flexible hours,” is the reason Ben Lambert, a junior, likes working in the mailroom. “You get scheduled around your classes.”

Spring is not the best time to get work-study. Often the only openings are from students who either graduated in December or transferred to another school.

“Make sure you get your FAFSA in on time,” Gilman said, as a suggestion to any student interested in work-study. The due date for FAFSA this year is Feb. 15.

Gilman also recommended that students talk to their work-study advisor in the spring to ensure that their job will still be available the following year.