CU Boulder employs thousands of students each semester. These on-campus jobs cover a wide range of functions, allowing students to find their perfect fit. As a student employee, you can learn new skills, gain experience, build your network and earn money in a flexible, student-focused role.
For some students, working on campus may be your first job. You can enhance your experience by learning how to contribute in a positive way that benefits both you and your team. Here are a few tips to make the most of your student job.
Ask questions and clarify expectations
Your supervisor should set the expectations and responsibilities for your position when you begin a new job. These expectations may include work hours, uniform or dress code, due dates for assignments, details about completing your job responsibilities and other topics to help you succeed at work.
Miscommunication can happen when people make assumptions. For example, you may assume it’s OK to arrive a few minutes late if your class runs over, but your supervisor may need you to arrive at the exact shift start time to have the necessary coverage. It’s best to ask questions to clarify expectations. It can sound like this: “Sometimes my last class before my shift runs late. If that happens, can I arrive at work a few minutes late, or should I change my shift to a different time?”
Communicate changes
You can develop the foundational skill of communication at your on-campus job, which can be useful now and in your future career. Communicating effectively with your supervisor will help them support you as you balance a part-time job and student responsibilities.
If you need to adjust your schedule, communicate these changes to your supervisor as soon as possible. When you start your job, ask your supervisor how they would like you to communicate changes—some may prefer a phone call, others prefer an email, etc. Learning the best method for timely communication will help you prepare for emergencies and avoid frustration with your work attendance and scheduling.
Practice time awareness
You can demonstrate time awareness by showing up to work on time and ready to start working. Talk with your supervisor to understand how to maximize your time at work. For example, clarify what projects and tasks you should prioritize and the due dates for projects. If you think a project or task might take longer than anticipated, communicate an updated timeline to your supervisor or team as soon as possible. These practices can make a good impression now and build habits to support your future career success.
Develop goals
Setting goals for your on-campus job can help you to be intentional with the skills you build. Goal setting can be done individually and with your supervisor or team. You can meet with your supervisor to discuss your current professional development goals and how to incorporate the goals into your tasks and projects. For example, you could work on public speaking, project management, event planning, content writing and other work tailored to skill development.
Track skills, experiences and accomplishments
No matter what your position is for your on-campus job, you are gaining experience and learning new skills. Tracking these skills and regularly updating your resume and online job profiles is important. Add the skills you develop through your role, leadership and project experiences, and highlight significant work accomplishments. You can explore MySkills through Career Services to learn more about valuable skills for your job or internship search.
Tell your friends
You can help build the team of student employees here at CU Boulder. If you love your job, tell your friends about your experience and encourage them to apply for an on-campus job. There is something for everyone, and part of a positive job experience is working with a motivated team. Check out open positions and share job opportunities with your friends.