Let’s be honest—being a student isn’t cheap. Between tuition, rent, overpriced coffee, textbooks you barely open, and the occasional midnight fast food run, expenses pile up fast. Getting a part-time job sounds like the smart move—but the idea of juggling work and studying feels like a fast track to burnout. The good news? It doesn’t have to be.

Getting a part-time job while in university isn’t just about earning extra money. It’s also about building real-world skills, improving your time management, and even making connections that might help your career later. If you do it right, you won’t just survive—you’ll thrive.

Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to land a part-time job during university, manage your time without collapsing, and actually make the most of the experience.

Why Even Get a Part-Time Job?

First, let’s talk about why it’s worth the effort.

Yes, the paycheck is helpful. You get to buy groceries without stress, contribute to rent, or save for that summer trip. But a job during school offers more than income. It builds discipline. It teaches you how to communicate with coworkers, handle pressure, meet deadlines, and show up on time—even when you’re running on caffeine and stress.

Plus, having work experience on your resume (even if it’s not glamorous) gives you an edge after graduation. Employers love seeing that you’ve handled responsibility and balanced competing priorities. It’s one thing to say you’re organized. It’s another to prove it.

Step 1: Figure Out What You’re Looking For

Don’t apply blindly. Not every job is the right fit for your schedule, personality, or energy level. Before you start browsing job boards, ask yourself a few key questions:

• How many hours per week can I realistically work?

• Do I prefer remote work or in-person roles?

• What’s my class schedule like—do I have long gaps I can fill?

• Do I want something related to my field of study or just a low-stress side income?

There’s no right answer. Some students want resume-building internships. Others just want to earn quick cash with as little brainpower as possible. Both are valid.

Step 2: Know Where to Look

Here’s where students often get stuck—they look in all the wrong places, or they apply for jobs that aren’t flexible.

Start with these:

• On-campus jobs: Libraries, academic departments, student unions, or IT support centers. These often offer fewer hours, flexible shifts, and minimal commute.

• University career portals: Most universities have online job boards specifically for students. These include internships, tutoring gigs, and research assistant roles.

• Remote platforms: Check out sites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer if you have a skill (writing, design, editing, etc.) and want to work from your laptop.

• Retail and food service: These classic student jobs are often flexible with shifts, especially on weekends or nights.

• Tutoring services: If you’re good at a subject, tutor high schoolers or other uni students—either via campus or platforms like Wyzant or Superprof.

You can also ask professors, classmates, or TAs—word of mouth is still one of the best ways to hear about hidden opportunities.

Step 3: Craft a Simple But Solid Resume

Even if you don’t have much experience, you still need a decent resume. Keep it one page, easy to read, and highlight anything that shows responsibility, teamwork, or relevant skills.

Focus on:

• Volunteering

• Class projects (yes, these count!)

• Clubs or student organizations

• Any personal projects, like running a blog or small business

• Soft skills like communication, problem-solving, or time management

No need for fancy designs. Clean, clear, and typo-free is all that matters.

If possible, write a short cover letter too. For small roles, even 3–4 lines that show you’re reliable, available, and interested can give you a leg up.