Finding off-campus employment as a student can be a great way to gain experience, develop skills, and earn extra income. However, it’s important to strike a balance so that your work doesn’t interfere with your academic responsibilities. Here’s a guide to finding off-campus jobs and a recommendation for how many hours you should work:
1. Using Handshake to Find Off-Campus Jobs:
- Log into Handshake: Start by logging into Handshake, the university’s career platform, available to all UNL students.
- Search for Off-Campus Jobs:
- Go to the ‘Jobs’ section in Handshake.
- Use the filters to search for off-campus positions. Make sure to uncheck the ‘On-Campus’ box in the location filter to focus on off-campus jobs.
- You can also filter by job type (part-time, full-time, internships, etc.) and industry.
- Set Alerts: If you want to stay updated on new opportunities, you can set up job alerts in Handshake to be notified when new off-campus jobs are posted that match your preferences.
2. Recommended Work Hours:
- Limit to 20 Hours Per Week:
- For most students, working no more than 20 hours per week is recommended during the semester. This allows you to balance work and academics effectively while also leaving time for extracurricular activities, studying, and rest.
- If you have breaks (e.g., winter break or summer), you can increase your hours to full-time (up to 40 hours per week), but during the semester, it’s best to keep it around 15–20 hours.
3. Tips for Finding and Managing Off-Campus Employment:
- Balance Academics and Work: Keep your academic schedule in mind when applying for jobs. Ensure that your job won’t interfere with important study time, classes, or assignments.
- Look for Jobs That Fit Your Schedule: Many off-campus jobs (like those in retail, food service, or tutoring) have flexible hours, making it easier to work around your classes.
- Apply Early: Start applying for jobs as early as possible, as many positions are filled quickly, especially during peak times like the beginning of the semester or before the holidays.
- Consider On-Campus Jobs: While you're looking for off-campus positions, remember that on-campus jobs (such as in libraries or dining services) are often more flexible with student schedules and have a higher understanding of student responsibilities.
4. Additional Resources for Finding Off-Campus Jobs:
- Local Job Listings: In addition to Handshake, you can also check local job boards, websites like Indeed, and even visit businesses in Lincoln to inquire about openings.
- Networking: Ask professors, friends, or local community members if they know of any job openings. Often, networking can lead to hidden job opportunities.
- Career Services: Career Coaches in your college can help you with resume writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies to find off-campus employment that matches your skills and interests.
- Transportation: StarTran is the public transportation offered by the City of Lincoln. Learn more about student bus passes.