While off-campus jobs are important, students at Northwestern State University are encouraged to become student workers. From front desk work to tutoring students in need of assistance, student work is throughout the campus, and every job plays a role in making sure the university runs smoothly.
To become a student worker, a student must be admitted into the university on a regular status. A grade point average of 3.0 must be maintained, and the student must have strong organizational, oral, and written communication skills. Although those qualifications are necessary, the federal work study program is for students who demonstrate financial need based on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Those who demonstrate such needs may be admitted to a student job and qualify for an employment scholarship.
Student work spans a variety of jobs all around campus, including work provided in the Student Services Center, the Academic Success Center, various computer labs, the NSU Campus Store, Iberville Dining Hall and the athletic department.
Emily Hargrave, a freshman radiologic science major, worked in NSU’s Student Service Center her first year. “I am a presidential ambassador, and I work around the office, whether it’s helping recruiters or assisting them with tours or other miscellaneous work when asked to,” Hargrave said.
Balancing schoolwork and a job is important, not only so students don’t fall behind, but so life is easier with a balanced schedule. Layton Byles, a freshman business administration major, worked in the Student Services Center and found that their workload was never overwhelming.
“They make it really easy here to balance work and your personal life. The office closes around 4 p.m., which gives us enough time to do after-school activities, homework or just relax. And usually, when there are a lot of ambassadors here, it’s easier to get your homework done,” Byles said. Balancing both schoolwork and work from a job can lead to smart leaders in the community, as well as on campus.
While some job fields are desk-centered, NSU’s Wellness, Recreation and Activity Center (WRAC) allows students to do more hands-on tasks. Workers can clean, collect transactions on locker rentals and do gym laundry.
Shanyia White, a sophomore nursing major, completed her work study at the WRAC. “Working here helped me get out of my shell and talk to people because my job allows me to greet everyone who is working out or doing gym activities,” White said. “The best part about working at the WRAC is making those who walk through the door smile after I greet them. It really brightens my day.”
Although these are only a few jobs out of many, all on-campus jobs are important for the university’s workflow and organization. Library staff members stack and shelve books while also assisting with the front desk. The university’s Iberville Dining Hall workers check students in and help deliver food to those looking for a meal. Every job on campus remains important, and with the right requirements, anyone can become a student worker and help NSU move forward.
