Student life is never easy. You’re either desperate for cash, or looking for extra cash. According to Citi and Seventeen Magazine’s 2013 College Student Pulse, 61% of students say college is more expensive than they expected.

It seems there’s no in-between, unless your parents are totally rich and are more than happy to pay for your expenses. In the survey, they found out that four out of five students are working while finishing their course.

Outside Campus

When you need a job in college, the first thing that comes to mind is an in-campus job. While such jobs offer flexibility, and discounts or extra credits, they often pay peanuts. Most on-campus jobs won’t look impressive on your resume either.

On the other hand, tons of off-campus jobs are available with better pay and better job titles. In this post, I list several part-time jobs related to a couple of courses.

For Accounting, Statistics and other Math Majors

As a math major, I’m sure counting change while dispensing hand-crafted coffee is no-brainer for you. So how about working on something a little closer to your course?

Aside from the obvious Math tutoring jobs, you can find employment as:

• An Entry level Data Analyst or Research Analyst: You’ll either be asked to gather data, present data in different forms like charts and graphs, perform ad-hoc data search and analysis. Knowledge in SQL, Ms Excel and Oracle is a must.
• A Social Media Marketing Analyst: Don’t confuse this job with a social media manager, whose job is to promote businesses through social media, and manage online communities. An analyst interprets data from ad campaigns and social media trends, and then makes recommendations based on their findings. Social analysts use Excel, Radian 6 and other online tracking tools.

The job options are endless for mathematical minds with keen analytical skills and proficiency in Excel.

For Veterinary Sciences

The most obvious career-related choice is working as a Veterinary Assistant. Don’t worry; you don’t need a license to get a job as non-registered assistant. Your background as a veterinary student, especially if you’re studying in one of the top veterinary schools, is enough.

Now for the unusual job options:

• Dog groomer: Again, certificate programs are available for this job but licensing and formal-training isn’t required. You can work as a dog groomer working alongside a licensed vet, or in one of the many grooming salons in the country. Median salary, according to Payscale, is $10 per hour.
• Poop-scooper: Yes, it’s a thing. You don’t need specialized training for this kind of work. Scoopers can charge anywhere from $10 to $15 a visit, and the actual job only takes a few minutes. An experienced scooper with a couple of clients can earn $40 or more per hour, according to Professional Poop Scooper Matthew Osborn. Check out the Association of Professional Animal Waste Specialists for more information.

For Pharmacy and other Science Majors

Many jobs for science majors require further education, an MSc, PhD or some other specialization. Until you get that, many companies won’t hire you for jobs in product development, research and academia. But don’t let that stop you from building your credentials.

• Science Blogger: As a student, you can take on entry-level science writing work for small blogs and publications. As a freelancer, I know many editors are more interested in your story ideas and writing skills than they are in your educational status. All you need is the ability to find a good story and enthusiasm to interview people. Just remember, you’re not the ‘expert’ providing the facts in your writing.
• Drug store assistant: Students in accredited Pharmacy colleges can work as a drug store assistant. Drug stores like Target and Walgreens regularly seek out students with accredited units in Pharmacy to work part-time jobs.

Studies First

Working while you’re in school is a great way to build your resume and earn extra money. But remember, you’re in college to learn.

College is a time to study, network, make friends and build the foundation of your future career. Don’t throw away your education in exchange for a few bucks an hour. Invest at least 45 hours a week in your studies, and reserve the 50-hour work weeks after graduation.

 

 

Charley Mendoza is a freelance writer covering business, personal development, and careers. You can find out more about her work on freelancewritercharley.com. Follow her on Twitter on @CharleyWrites.

We welcome your feedback to our work.

Email:  General Information   |   Dr. Daniel de Roulet   |   Prof. David C. Pecoraro

Thank you!

Daniel & David

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Career-Related Jobs for College Students