Why Part-Time Jobs Stand Out On College Apps

Do you have a part-time job in high school? And if you do, do you know how it will affect your college application process? Let’s discuss.

Some teenagers must work to get by, while others choose to do so on their own. If you’re considering applying for a part-time job or already hold one: good for you! The good news for teen employees is that having a job in addition to school can be an asset when it comes to applying for colleges.

Talk to your college admissions counselor to get specific advice about how to describe your work experience on your college application, and read on to find out the benefits to your college profile of having a job.

Aside from being a source of income (and who doesn’t like that?), a job can help you develop important life skills for college and beyond.

• Responsibility. You’ll manage your schedule, get yourself to and from work, and complete the job well - all essential to developing a strong sense of responsibility.

• Work ethic. Holding a job (and/or excelling at one) shows colleges that you can work hard.

• Time management. You need to manage your time well in order to work and attend school. If you can keep your grades up while holding down a job, schools will be impressed.

• Leadership. If you are able to take on more leadership roles at work, you’ll gain valuable skills at managing others and communicating effectively. 

• Teamwork and cooperation. Work is nothing like school when it comes to cooperation. You’ll learn how to work together with a variety of people, which will come in handy when you are out in the real world.

Colleges want to see that you are a dependable, responsible student who will do well on their campus. By having a job, you can showcase these skills while you earn some cash.

As long as it doesn’t affect your schoolwork, a job can enhance your skills and help you stand out on a college application. On your application, be sure to identify the skills you learned at your job that will help you succeed in college. 

Any job can give you a leg up on the college experience admissions process. But there are some that will be especially helpful.

• Get a job in your desired field. If you really want to go pre-med, try to get a job at a hospital. This demonstrates that you are truly invested in your career decisions.

• Find leadership experience. If you’re able to take on more leadership at work, that will reflect positively on your college application. Do you train new employees? Can you organize outings for the children you babysit? The more you can show your leadership, the better!

• Start your own business. If you can show entrepreneurial skills, that will look great on your application. Some students open an Etsy shop or mow lawns in the neighborhood. Running a business, even a small one, requires organization and motivation that colleges like to see.

When it comes to the college admissions process, Empowerly can help. Our counseling services can provide you with the support you need to identify which job-related skills to emphasize on your application. Get started today!