Everybody’s Working for the Weekend!

Students get hands-on experience with work study program

By Seth Mitchell
Observer Contributor

Work study positions offer students the opportunity to make some extra money and are highly recommended.

Sean Doyle, student, has a work study as a delivery boy offered on the Gardner campus. He works every Tuesday and Thursday and his duties consist of delivering materials and packages and filing order forms and receipts.

“If you’re seeking involvement in the school a work study is definitely a good fit for you,” said Doyle.

One of Doyle’s favorite parts about his work study is that he can do homework or study in his down time. It gives him the opportunity to get his schoolwork done while still receiving a paycheck. “It is a work study, so while I am not working, I take advantage of the other time to study,” said Doyle.

“Go to Student Services and ask about available work studies,” advised Doyle.

Sara Williams, Program Manager of the TRIO SSS Programs, has been a work study supervisor for four years. “One of my favorite parts of being a supervisor is being able to mentor my students. It has been great to see them grow throughout the semester,” said Williams. Being approved for a work study is competitive but the experience is beneficial for students.

Williams has two students who are participating in work studies under her wing. Mostly involving office work, the work study students help others navigate the Visions office, answer the phone, and participate in frontline support.

Deborah Nichols, Financial Aid, runs the work study program. According to Nichols, the number of hours a student can work is based on the financial aid they receive; the higher the aid, the less they are able to work.

Nichols added that the program is in the process of being revamped. The program was handed over to her from Scott Faris who retired. “There are currently 44 students in the work study program,” said Nichols. Due to the competitiveness, getting an interview will not guarantee a job.

“Work study jobs are great for the retention rate; they give students a reason to continue their education,” said Nichols. She mentioned that students who are working hands-on with some of the faculty and staff are more inclined to stay because of the student-mentor relationships they form.