The Hidden Value of a Part-Time Job
Many students are keenly aware that participating in extracurricular activities such as internships, community service, and school clubs are great ways to build their academic resume in preparation for college, but part-time work is sometimes overlooked. Part-time jobs that demonstrate strong time management skills, the ability to work with others, humility, etc. are sometimes passed over as an interruption from the business of earning admission to a selective school.
In reality, securing and holding a part-time job is one of the best ways to build the valuable “soft skills” that colleges look for in potential applicants. Beyond a paycheck, building grit, strong interpersonal skills, teamwork, and work ethic are just some of the benefits that a part-time job offers. Job experience comes at an even higher premium for students growing up in communities that are considered privileged and whether applicants have been exposed to real-world experiences.
Although it’s great to secure a job that relates to one’s intended major, it’s certainly not a necessity. Whether it’s working as a bagger at the local supermarket or doing administrative work at an IT company, prioritizing customer service and company goals are inevitable parts of the job that require the professionalism that colleges look for in their potential applicants. In some cases, labor-based jobs may take precedence over more “white-collar” positions for the unique benefits that they offer to students.
For example, the popular Mexican fast-food chain, Chipotle, has offered to reimburse the tuition of employees in particular technology and business-related majors who attend partnership schools. Disney offers its workers 100% tuition payment and free textbooks to employees who attend partnership schools as well. We encourage students to consider the value of a part-time job beyond what meets the eye and do some research on companies that provide added benefits to employees interested in higher education. Please see the following link to learn more about companies that offer full or partial tuition assistance to their employees:
https://getschooled.com/article/5206-companies-with-great-tuition-reimbursement-programs/
When all is said and done, being able to articulate how you went above and beyond in accommodating your company and your customers' needs may be worth far more in the long run than your hourly wage.