Many students find that securing part-time or temporary work is a great way to supplement their living costs while still managing to study and maintain a social life. With reports suggesting that up to 80% of students are working in addition to studying, it seems that the ‘lazy’ stereotype that tends to be attributed to the student lifestyle could be a big misconception. There are plenty of jobs that can be easily slotted around lectures, some of which may even be beneficial to your studies or give you certain discounts and perks. Here are just a handful of the most well-suited jobs for students.
Bar and Restaurant Work
Working in hospitality can mean long shifts and lots of time spent on your feet, but it comes with benefits. Bar work is a hugely sociable job, with all the perks of a night out minus the hangover and empty wallet! Restaurant work has huge potential for making extra cash through tips, with some eateries even throwing in free meals on your breaks as a bonus.
Retail
Retail is one of the most popular sectors for students to work in. Part time jobs in Newcastle and other major student cities are plentiful due to the sheer number of shops. The shifts are usually varied and many shops offer a staff discount, which can be very useful when that student loan begins to dwindle. If you are able to secure a job in a shop that somehow has links to your studies, such as a major clothing brand if you are a fashion student or a car dealership if you are studying engineering, this also demonstrates initiative and may offer valuable work experience that will help you to pursue your future goals.
Freelancing
If you are a skilled web designer, a keen copywriter or an efficient typist, you can make money online from your talents. Sites such as PeoplePerHour invite candidates to bid for one-off freelancing jobs in a variety of sectors. Not only does freelancing give you the opportunity to take on as much or as little work as you can manage but also it does not require any start-up or travel costs – just a secure internet connection. Again, building a portfolio of your talents can help to further your career aspirations in the future in addition to earning money in the here and now.
Working for the university
Your university could easily become your employer in addition to your educator. There are several job opportunities on campus; for example, you could work in the student union bar, give guided tours of the university grounds to prospective students, become a library assistant or get involved with the PR for student events. The possibilities are endless and universities are generally very understanding when it comes to exam times.
What are you waiting for? Boost your bank balance, your social life and your future prospects by finding a student job this year.