Earning While Learning: Work-Study Jobs at USC
Being a student at USC provides you with a whirlwind of opportunities. From the strong academic rigor to the extensive social scene, it’s a lot to juggle. Adding a part-time (possibly work study) position into the mix can feel a little overwhelming. But, with the right approach, you can totally succeed and maybe even earn some extra money.
What can you expect from USC’s Work-Study Program?
Offered by the Department of Education, Federal Work-Study provides part-time jobs for students with exceptional financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay their education expenses. The program encourages community-service work and work related to a student’s course of study. Most of these jobs are on campus, but some opportunities are also available with local nonprofit agencies.
USC’s work-study program is the perfect opportunity for students who want to earn cash while prioritizing their education. These jobs are usually on campus or with approved off-campus employers who know about your academic schedule and obligations like exams, homework, presentations, etc. Some of these include research assistants, library aides, or even working in one of the many student offices around campus.
The best part? These jobs are designed to fit around your class schedule, and they’re more than just a paycheck. They’re a chance to gain experience, build connections, and feel like you’re a part of something bigger. They allow students to explore their professional careers while prioritizing their academic work.
How to Stay Balanced and Thrive
1. Plan It Out:
Use a planner or your phone’s calendar to organize work shifts, classes, and study sessions. And make sure to block off time for breaks. Your hobbies and finding time to relax are just as important as studying.
2. Communicate Clearly:
While it is important to be honest with your employers about your schedule, you should also feel comfortable reaching out to professors if your workload feels overwhelming. A little transparency can go a long way in managing expectations and getting the support you need to succeed.
3. Prioritize Yourself:
Skipping necessary tasks or pulling all-nighters might seem like a quick fix, but it will put you on a fast track to burnout. Make sure that you are getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals (not just snacks), and fitting in some form of movement. Even a short walk can help clear your mind and refocus.
4. Use USC’s Resources:
USC offers support across various topics, from the Career Center to the Health and Well-Being Program. The Student Success Center and Counseling Services are there to guide you if you need any help. The Kortschak Center for Learning and Creativity is another great resource for students, providing individual academic guidance, workshops, academic support groups, and the availability of quiet study spaces. Take advantage of what’s available—it’s there for a reason.
5. Acknowledge Your Wins:
Balancing your obligations and responsibilities isn’t easy, so be patient and allow yourself to appreciate your progress. Mastering time management or getting straight A’s doesn’t just happen overnight. Make sure you celebrate the small wins just as much as the big victories!
Where To Start
One of the best ways to find job opportunities on campus is through Handshake. Many offices around campus hire students every semester to help out with their projects. These positions are a great way to earn money without leaving campus!
While many work-study positions are on campus, these jobs are only available to some students. You can check your eligibility here if you are interested in a work-study position. If you are not eligible, plenty of on-campus jobs don’t require work-study. Make sure to double-check the requirements in the description of the jobs that you are applying for!
When thinking about your future USC experience, it is important to note that balancing your work and school obligations is not the easiest thing to do. However, once you find your rhythm and figure out which resources work best for you, you’ll succeed with flying colors. You will be building a future you can be proud of, and that’s worth every late-night study session and early-morning work shift. Just remember to take a deep breath and remember those two words that unite us all—Fight On!
Written by: Lucy Jordan - Assistant Director, Office of Undergraduate Admission