Working while attending college is something that many students find they must do. When you do go on the hunt for a job, here’s a handy little tip. Find a job that offers benefits such as free movie or concert tickets. You may also search for the best jobs for students that gives you a chance to hang out with one of the sports teams. Find something that interests you and look for a job in that area. The perks will be worth the hours you put in.
Tour Guide
Do you love history? Can you recite little known facts about your school, the architecture or the faculty? If this describes you, working as a tour guide may be the perfect job. Many schools hire employees to show potential students and their families around. Others will hire you to help at a school event or act as an ambassador, spreading goodwill around. One of the benefits of this type of job is that you may even have the chance to meet celebrities. As a tour guide, you will accompany them on a trip through the school. Perks include such things as free clothing with your school’s logo on it and flexible hours. Getting a job as a tour guide may be the most difficult part as there are limited spots and many want them. Not only must you be able to converse easily with a wide variety of people, you must also take care to be neatly groomed. No one wants a tour guide with stains on his shirt.
Personal Trainer/Fitness Instructor
If you love to work out and enjoy participating in sports, a job working as a personal trainer or fitness instructor may be just what you need. Employment opportunities include gym attendants and fitness class instructors and usually pay $10 to $15 an hour. Your hours will most likely be flexible and you can combine your personal workout with your job. It’s an easy and fun way to stay in shape. Certification will most likely be required along with first aid and/or CPR training and you may be required to work evenings and weekends. Those are the only drawbacks.
Waiter/Waitress
This is one of the best jobs for students as you can make a fortune in tips. Many students put themselves through school off of this money alone. Spending money will never be a problem as you take your tips home daily and your schedule will most likely not conflict with your classes. This is a great opportunity to learn skills such as sales and customer service, especially for a business major. Weekends are when you will make the most money so be prepared to give up some fun activities, but the money is well worth it. This job can be very demanding, both mentally and physically. Make sure you can stay pleasant even when confronted by rude customers or drunks. This can be difficult in good times, but even harder when you are tired and your feet are aching.
Caregiver
Many students opt to work as a non-medical caregiver for a disabled or elderly person. These jobs do not require that you do personal tasks such as bathing. Your main tasks will be to keep your client company while performing light errands and basic housekeeping tasks. Home Instead Senior Care is a great place to search for this type of job and can help you find employment that fits well in your schedule. If you prefer the younger generation, check out Sitter City which performs a similar service. The problem many run into with this type of job is that missing work is not allowed. Someone must be there in your place or your client may suffer.
Athletic Team Assistant
If sports is your life, but you are not athletically gifted, consider working as an athletic team assistant. Here you will act as a manager or assistant. Tasks include assisting with practices, collecting uniforms and equipment or supervising the bench area. Travel is a large part of this job and is a great way to see other parts of the country while someone else is paying. The hours are not great. Early morning, late night and evening hours may be required. If you can handle that, don’t hesitate to apply. It is easy to see why this is considered one of the best jobs for students.
Tutor
Do you excel in one particular subject? Would you like to share this knowledge? If you are proficient in a particular area, such as French or algebra, offer your services as a tutor. This is one of the highest paying jobs and your services will always be in demand. Your tutoring schedule can be set to when you are available, allowing you more freedom. Many student help centers at colleges and universities maintain a list of tutors so put your name there. You may also wish to use a referral service. You must be tough on your clients, while still remaining supportive and patient,. This can be a delicate balancing act, but must be handled. Many feel this is one of the best jobs for students.
Usher or Ticket Taker
Events are a big part of college life. These can range from sporting events to guest speakers. If you do not mind large crowds, consider working in this area. Tasks include crowd control, security and taking tickets. The benefits of this type of job are enormous. Not only will you get to see may of the big games, you may also hear celebrities who come to give a speech or attend sold out concerts. You might even get to meet some of your heroes. The only drawback is that you don’t get to choose which events you work. You may be stuck listening to a dull speaker while your co-worker is jamming to Amy Winehouse.