How to Find the Right Job for You

Elmhurst University employs dozens of students every academic term through both federal work study and college work study programs. When I found my job in the office of registration and records, I searched the MyElmhurst student portal and found it under the job listings tab.

When you are looking for an on-campus job, they will fall under two categories, federal work study and college work study. While there are no wage or working hour differences between the two programs, FWS splits wage funding between EU and the federal government, while CWS is funded exclusively by Elmhurst University.

Megan Webber, associate director of financial aid counseling for the office of student financial services provided me with a broad overview of both programs.

“FWS wages are partially funded by the federal government, which helps colleges to hire more students. Each year, colleges apply for and receive limited funds to use for employment wages for students with financial need,” said Webber, “College Work Study is not tied to federal funds. Eligibility is open to all students, regardless of FAFSA status or financial need. It is considered “regular” student employment.”

Student eligibility for FWS depends on financial need. Information from the FAFSA is used by EU to determine if students may apply for FWS jobs on campus.

Webber explains, “if you can file a FAFSA, we recommend doing so every year as early as you can. Since Federal Work Study funds are so limited, it’s important to get your application in quickly to be considered.”

Not being awarded FWS doesn’t mean you can’t find a job on campus though. Engaging with various academic and operational departments and networking with peers and staff can help you land a CWS job.

“Get involved with departments that interest you or that you work with frequently, and ask around to see if there’s a need you could fill there,” said Webber.

Getting a job on campus can also vary depending on when you apply for the position. For my job, I applied over winter break, so it took a bit longer for my hiring process to be completed.

Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to a supervisor if you have not heard back from them about your interview. I recommend waiting 2 weeks after your interview until you send an email. Also, do not send multiple emails; one is just fine.

When you look for a job on campus, you should find a job that interests you and will support your goals for after graduation. When you start looking, you will find that there are jobs for every career aspiration. If you look around and see everyone else working at a job don’t feel discouraged. There is a job for everyone on this campus; you just need to try and find what job or department works best for you.