The semester is just starting and you are already broke. Your parents refuse to answer your calls and you find it is time to get a job immediately. The easiest way to find college student jobs is to search for ones available on campus. Many schools offer employment in the library, student center or faculty offices. College towns are also known for an abundance of jobs designed for kids attending school, especially in food service and retail industries. Don’t let your need for money overwhelm your common sense though. It is never a good idea to take a job that you will hate. It will show in your work and future references from the employer. Here are some of the worst college student jobs.
Computer Lab Monitor
Many in need of employment take this job thinking it will give them ample time to complete coursework and study for exams. Nothing is further from the truth. Your time will be spent helping visitors to the lab and your work will suffer. This is also a very low paying job so you will be losing out in more than one way.
Overnight Delivery Driver
College students love to order food in. The problem arises in the fact that starving students are notoriously poor tippers. This is especially true when you deliver in middle of the night. Not only will you not receive a good tip, if you get any at all, but you may also witness something you would prefer not to or be the victim of a practical joke. Many college student jobs exist in the food delivery field. It’s just better to find one where you can obtain earlier hours.
Dining Hall Worker
This job is similar to working in a sit down restaurant. The main difference is that you will not receive any tips and you will have to clean up some nasty messes. Although you may be desperate for money, this is not the route to go. With so many college student jobs available, this type of work should only be taken as a last resort.
University Fundraiser
Although you may receive a fancy title such as “Alumni Relations Specialist”, the truth is you are nothing more than a telemarketer. With this type of work, you will be cold calling alums to ask for donations. Not only will people scream at you, they may also call you names or slam the phone down in your ear. Minimum wage is all that is to be expected with this type of job although you may be offered commission. It’s just not worth it for the little that you will be paid. You must be thick skinned and able to sell ice to an Alaskan if you want to go into this career.