Do you work while studying? Many do. Here, we discuss how to work while you’re in grad school.
College is expensive: it’s a fact. Looking to offset that expense by working while you study is something that 70% of full-time college students are doing, according to a 2018 study from the Center on Education and the Workforce at Georgetown University.
While having a job is a necessity for many students to get them through college, it can have obvious downsides. Students who work over 15 hours a week are more likely to have a C average or lower, compared to those who work less than 15 hours, who are more likely to have a B average or higher.
Those with low incomes tend to work longer hours too, and they also are more likely to be Black or Latinx, older and female, compounding existing problems from the outset.
The other side of the coin is that having a job during college, especially one that is tied to your field of study or the area you’d like to go into post-graduation, can be a smart way to accelerate your ambitions and get you onto a career track faster. Here are five ways to make that happen.
Do a summer internship
A popular, highly-sought after option as many offer you the opportunity of getting hired after completing your internship. Most are paid, and will offer a structured way to learn the ropes of the field you hope to go into. You’ll get real-life practical experience and references, and you will make networking connections for the future.
Get a work placement
Many college courses have a work placement element built in, and it’s likely that some of your final grades are dependent on tasks completed while on placement. This option may not pay as well as an internship, aim to find one that will be of most interest and benefit to you: this sort of work experience is a valuable opportunity to learn from professionals and put your course theory into practice. You can develop all the skills that are vital for work such as interpersonal skills, analytical skills, and enhanced subject knowledge.
Shadow someone
I wanted to share some insights about why shadowing someone can be a smart move for making some extra cash during your studies.
Note that you won’t be paid for this one, but asking to shadow someone doing a job in an area you’d like to get into will give you an opportunity to get a flavor for the type of work involved in a certain field. It can be a good way to get into a company that doesn’t traditionally offer work experience or internships, too.
First off, gaining practical experience through shadowing is a golden opportunity. It can give you a hands-on understanding of your field or a related profession, something that textbooks and lectures often can’t fully provide. This real-world exposure can make you stand out and boost your career prospects when you graduate.
Networking is another big plus. Shadowing allows you to build connections with experienced professionals who can mentor you, offer guidance, or even open doors to job opportunities down the line. The people you meet while shadowing can become valuable references or collaborators in your future career.
Using Job Shadowing to Build Skills
Think of job shadowing as skill-building. You can acquire new skills or hone existing ones by shadowing. This can be especially handy in competitive fields where practical experience is highly valued.
And let’s not forget the chance to explore various career paths. Shadowing allows you to dip your toes into different areas within your field. This firsthand experience can help you figure out what truly interests you and where you want to specialize.
Lastly, having shadowing experience on your resume is a major win. It shows initiative, a commitment to learning, and a real-world application of your academic knowledge. Employers love to see that.
So, in a nutshell, consider shadowing as a way to earn extra income during grad school. It’s a smart move that can pay off in more ways than one – both in terms of experience and your financial well-being.
Casual Employment
Want to work in media or TV? These areas often have what is known as “casual” employment on offer where you’ll be paid a day or shift rate to perform a job. It can be a great way to get in on the ground floor, get to know the company and make connections.
You can also look into launching your own business. Many entrepreneurs use TikTok for Business to grow their brands and land new clients. Because social media is such a common part of our lives, it makes sense to leverage the technology for a side gig.
Why Start a Side Gig?
First off, a side gig helps diversify your skill set. Grad school is an excellent time to explore your interests and passions. A side business can be the perfect platform to channel your creativity and apply what you’re learning in a practical way. Whether it’s offering a service or creating a product, you get to see how your academic knowledge translates into the real world.
Financial independence is another significant perk. Grad school can be financially demanding, and having a side business can help ease the burden. It provides an additional income stream, which can help you cover tuition, living expenses, or even pay down those student loans. Plus, it can provide a sense of financial security that’s invaluable.
But it’s not just about the money; it’s also about the experience. Starting and running a business teaches you essential life skills like time management, budgeting, and problem-solving. You’ll gain a deep understanding of how businesses operate, which can be a valuable asset in your future career, whether you choose academia, industry, or entrepreneurship.
Can You Network in Grad School?
Networking opportunities abound when you have a side business. You’ll interact with customers, suppliers, and fellow entrepreneurs. These connections can open doors to collaborations, partnerships, or even lead to a full-time job opportunity if that’s your goal.
Furthermore, entrepreneurship fosters a growth mindset. You’ll encounter challenges and setbacks, but you’ll also experience successes and personal growth. This resilience and adaptability are qualities highly sought after by employers and can make you a more well-rounded and confident individual.
I also adore the autonomy and control that come with running your own business. You’re the boss, you set the rules, and you decide the direction of your venture. This sense of ownership can be empowering and provide a welcome break from the structure of academia.
So, as you navigate grad school, consider exploring the world of entrepreneurship by starting a side business. It’s an enriching experience that can offer financial stability, personal growth, and a unique perspective on your academic journey.
Volunteering
I can’t overstate the value of volunteering. Do it to give back to your community or a cause that you’re passionate about. Volunteering during grad school allows you to make a positive impact on the world and contribute to something larger than yourself. This sense of purpose can be deeply fulfilling and remind you of the bigger picture beyond the academic rigors of grad school.
Volunteering also offers a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth. You’ll acquire new skills, build your network, and develop a broader perspective. These experiences can complement your academic learning and make you a more well-rounded and empathetic individual.
Moreover, volunteering can enhance your resume or CV. It showcases your commitment to making a positive impact and your ability to balance academic responsibilities with community engagement. Employers often value candidates with a strong sense of social responsibility and a track record of volunteer work.
Other Benefits of Volunteering During Grad School
It’s also a chance to explore your interests outside your academic field. Grad school can sometimes feel like a bubble, but volunteering can break you out of it. You may discover new passions, causes, or hobbies that you hadn’t considered before.
Additionally, volunteering can be a stress reliever. It allows you to step away from the books and engage in meaningful, real-world activities. The satisfaction that comes from helping others can boost your mood and overall well-being, helping you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Most importantly, volunteering provides a valuable perspective on the world. It can inspire your research, inform your academic pursuits, and remind you of the importance of your studies in addressing real-world challenges.
So, as you navigate grad school, while it’s ok to get excited about PhD graduation gifts and new job offers, don’t underestimate the power of volunteering.
It’s a win-win situation: you make a positive impact on your community, gain personal and professional benefits, and enrich your academic journey. It’s an opportunity to be both a learner and a contributor. Embrace it, and you’ll find it to be a rewarding part of your grad school experience.
These are a few of the best ways to work while studying.
Ready to look for a new job now? We have plenty more on the Job Board.
Kirstie works for our job board partner, Jobbio. Based in Dublin, she has been a writer and editor
across print and digital platforms for over 15 years.
