It is no secret that a college education can run a high price tag. Twenty percent of DU’s undergraduate population are part of the university’s work-study program, which allows students to work on-campus jobs to earn money towards paying for their degree.
Certain on-campus jobs are only available to students who are offered a work-study in their financial aid package. Sophomore Liberty Tyus, who works at DU’s Fisher Early Learning Center, explained her process with acquiring a work-study in order to qualify for the job she was interested in.
“A work-study was not included in my financial aid package, but I interviewed for and accepted a job before realizing I needed one to work there,” Tyus said. “I called financial aid, got put on a waitlist to receive a work-study and was eventually able to start work after receiving one in January.”
There are jobs available on campus for students without a work-study, though there may be fewer options. “I never had a work-study, so it was convenient that this position did not require one,” said sophomore Alex Pearson, explaining how she became a tour guide for DU Admissions.
Work-study-only jobs are set aside for students who qualify for that type of assistance and need to work in order to finance their college education. However, expenses are still a concern even for students who did not qualify to be part of the work-study program.
“College is expensive,” Pearson said simply. “You’re getting back the money you paid to the university. In a weird way, you’re paying yourself by paying tuition when you have an on-campus job.”
Pearson cited transportation and flexibility concerns as motivators for her to seek on-campus rather than off-campus employment. Sophomore Caroline Kemp agreed, explaining that working for the university was essential for her maintaining a balance between her job and school.
“All of my bosses have made it clear that we are students before we are employees. Everything is tailored around my class schedule,” she said.
Kemp works for DU’s Thrive as a peer educator, leading freshman training sessions and discussions around topics including gender-based violence prevention and mental health. Thrive does not require a work-study for employees, though Kemp commented on another challenge during her search for on-campus employment. “I had to reach out to the Career Center for the link to the job listings. It didn’t feel like on-campus jobs were well publicized,” Kemp said, explaining that she struggled with finding non-work-study employment opportunities before connecting with her current workplace.
Kemp, Pearson and Tyus all made note of how their on-campus jobs have exposed them to communities of people they may not have otherwise connected with at DU. Separate from financial need, student employment allows for a unique version of on-campus involvement. “I do [my job] for the experience,” Kemp said.
On-campus employment, work-study and non work-study alike, offers students unique experiences outside of their usual campus involvement. Though often a financial necessity to manage expenses, the flexibility of on-campus employment allows them to prioritize their academics first.
