While education is essential for gaining the necessary knowledge for one’s career, it is important not to underestimate the importance of knowing the value of a dollar and being able to experiment in various work environments. Working is arguably one of the best learning experiences in addition to education. 

At Bloomsburg University, students are able to receive payment through financial aid by working on campus jobs or work study. There are also other on-campus jobs affiliated with the university where students can make some extra money. Within work study, students can make a starting rate of around $7.25 per hour and can work 20 hours per week while in good academic standing with the school.

One work study opportunity which provides much assistance, including hourly pay, is the Act 101 Office located on the bottom floor of the Student Services Center building. Act 101 is a Pennsylvania State program which provides workshops and resources to disadvantaged students. 

The office allows student workers to assist other students in need and complete work during idle time. Act 101 also helps students schedule classes. Khalen Walker, a senior student worker, assists students in the computer lab. 

“They have a basic needs shop where students can get access to free things which they need,” Walker said of the Act 101 Office. “I like it because it is in a central area so I can interact with my friends.”

The Student Services Center is a main focal point on-campus, with its placement on the quadrangle right behind the university’s residence halls, and in front of all the school’s academic buildings. On the top floor of the Student Services center in the Student Reservations Office, freshman Mason Lunger reserves spaces for students and plans where events will be. Lunger utilizes the ballroom, the multicultural center, and the other spaces Kehr Union has to offer. 

Although the large number of phone calls can be overwhelming, Lunger emphasized the position’s flexibility with his academic responsibilities.“I like the hours because they work around my schedule,” he explained.   

In the Haas Building, senior Maya Nunna works as a technical assistant for performing arts, where she helps the theater program. She works within the theater assisting the BU theater program by setting up microphones and props, and controlling the lights and soundboards. 

She highly recommended working within this realm of campus. “Go for it! It’s a welcoming environment and inviting of all skill levels.” 

In the Bakeless Center for the Humanities, Carol Etzel works as an Assistant Director of Writing Center Management, where she oversees the tutors who work in the WALES office. The WALES office, on the upper floor, is a strong resource for students who need help with literature and writing skills. Etzel misses working with the students more directly through tutoring, yet she enjoys that “every day is different and I get to form relationships with other people around the office.” 

BU has committed to providing students with opportunities to gain work experience in a way that supports learning and the academic rigor that comes with being a college student. Unlike in high school, students are independent and work around their school schedules, giving them more flexibility and less financial stress. 

Students interested should visit the Student Employment section of Bloomsburg University’s website, where there is a frequently updated list of available work study positions.