Imagine this: you stroll into the campus café for your essential morning coffee, swing by the library to check out that intriguing book and get your laptop issues sorted out—all before your first class begins. Have you ever stopped to think about who makes those moments possible? It’s the student employees! They are the unsung heroes of college life, juggling classes, work, and personal commitments with incredible dedication.
National Student Employment Week (NSEW) is our chance to shine a spotlight on these students. They are the driving force behind everything from vital campus services to groundbreaking research. Let’s take a moment to celebrate their hard work, passion, and impact on the college experience!
Whether you’re a student seeking job opportunities, an employer wanting to express gratitude, or a faculty member keen to support student success, this week is a great time to get involved. Annually, NSEW occurs the second full week in April. That means this year it’s: April 14-18, 2025. Get it on your calendar, ASAP!
History of National Student Employment Week
National Student Employment Week is a special time that shines a light on student employees’ hard work and contributions. Created by the National Student Employment Association (NSEA), this week has grown into a nationwide celebration where colleges and universities come together to host events, workshops, and recognition programs. It’s a fantastic way to acknowledge the jobs that students hold, and the invaluable skills and experiences they gain along the way.
Every year, we take a moment to reflect on how you, as a student employee, contribute to campus life and the local community. We know it’s not just about making a paycheck. You’re growing and preparing for what comes next after graduation. So, if you’re a student juggling classes and a job, know that this week is about celebrating you and your journey!
Why Student Employment Matters
Student employment allows you to gain real-world experience, develop transferable skills, and expand your professional networks—not to mention, earn a few extra dollars. It also benefits employers, who gain access to motivated, capable workers who bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to their roles.
The Numbers Behind Student Employment
- According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), nearly 40% of full-time undergraduate students work while attending college.
- The Federal Work-Study program provides part-time employment opportunities to over 600,000 students annually.
- Students who work part-time (10-15 hours per week) tend to perform better academically than those who do not work at all.
Clearly, student employees are the backbone of campus operations, keeping everything running smoothly.
The Benefits of Employment for Students
There wouldn’t be so many student employees if there were benefits to it, right? Here are some reasons to consider joining the student employee club.
Career Enhancing Opportunities
On-campus jobs, internships, and part-time positions provide students with experience that enhances their resumes in valuable and distinguishable ways. Roles in customer service, administration, or research can help develop these skills:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Time management
- Problem-solving
- Leadership
- Adaptability
Employers place high value on work experience during the hiring process. These part-time opportunities serve as an excellent foundation for your future career.
Networking and Mentorship
Depending on the role, student employment will likely allow you to create valuable relationships with supervisors, faculty, and professionals in their field of interest—and yours. These connections can lead to mentorship, recommendation letters, and even full-time job opportunities after graduation.
Financial Stability
Balancing tuition, housing, and everyday expenses is a lot to consider for most students. A job provides financial assistance, helping you reduce your reliance on loans to fund your education. You’ll also gain budgeting experience, hugely benefiting your lifestyle after college. Adulting, am I right?
Personal Growth and Confidence
Juggling work and academics teaches skills that are difficult to replicate in the classroom but are paramount in careers and life. Skills such as: resilience, independence, and responsibility. Student employees often develop a strong work ethic that carries over into their post-graduate careers.
How to Find a Job During National Student Employment Week
If you’re looking to land a job, National Student Employment Week is a great time to start, because there are probably plentiful opportunities on campus this week. Here’s how:
- Update Your Resume. Highlight your skills, coursework, and any past work or volunteer experience.
- Utilize Campus Resources. Check with your school’s Career Services office for job postings, resume workshops, and career fairs.
- Apply for Federal Work-Study Positions. If you qualify, Work-Study jobs can provide flexible, on-campus employment opportunities.
- Network with Professors and Staff. Many faculty members know about job openings that aren’t widely advertised.
- Attend Job Fairs and Networking Events. NSEW often includes career fairs where students can meet potential employers.
- Be Professional in Interviews. Treat every interview seriously—dress appropriately, prepare for common questions, and follow up with a thank-you email.
A Student Success Story
Hearing from students who have thrived in their employment roles can be inspiring. Here is an example:
Katie: Balancing Work and Academics
Katie, a finance major, worked as a peer tutor in the business writing center and an office assistant for an administration department on campus. These roles helped cover room and board expenses and strengthened her communication and time management skills, preparing her for corporate roles. In fact, when asked in a campus interview how she managed to find time for work and a rigorous academic schedule, she showed the interviewer her colorful planner (and landed the offer).
Campuses that Recognize National Student Employment Week
A lot of colleges will celebrate National Student Employment Week. Some will have an Undergraduate Student Employee of the Year and other fun awards for their community of outstanding student employees! Here are some of our favorite colleges that recognize National Student Employment Week.
- Pepperdine University. Pepperdine University has daily events for their student employees! This year they’re doing a galaxy theme and have a variety of treats every day for their student employees.
- University of Wisconsin – Madison. U of W – Madison recognizes National Student Employment Week and encourages employers to reach out to students and thank them for all their hard work on campus!
- Harvard University. Ever thought about going to school at Harvard University? Well, how about being a student employee there too? At Harvard, the campus hosts a donut wall and school mixer with their student employees to show them just how much they appreciate them.
Conclusion
Being a student employee is hard work but National Student Employment Week makes it worth it! Whether you’re an employed student or a non-employed student, be sure to show your individual appreciation for those on campus who help it run smoothly.
Use College Raptor’s career finder to explore career paths that may just be a fantastic fit for you.
