Florida State University offers many student jobs including desk jobs, student assistants, resident assistants, food workers and more. Freshman Gustavo Anuda started working in September of this semester at Vato Tacos in 1851.
“I love working at Vatos,” Anuda shared. “I had never worked at a place like that, and the team is so welcoming. I enjoy cooking and everything that comes with it. I mainly cook in the back, like I make bowls and nachos and cook the meat. Sometimes though I have to go up front and help with taking orders. I like the simplicity of taking orders, but cooking is definitely my favorite it is just fun.”
Vato Tacos is one of the many restaurants that 1851 has to offer. It is joined by a Starbucks, Bento Sushi, Tally MacShack and Tuscan Eatery. Vato Tacos has a wide variety of menu options, such as bowls, tacos, nachos and salads. They even have vegan-friendly options.
“Aside from getting paid, the best part is being so close to the food. My favorite thing from Vato is probably the nachos with carne and since I work there, I get to load it up with all the toppings and cheese I want. Vatos is amazing but if it gets repetitive, I can go get something from MacShack. I like the proximity and I usually order Starbucks during my shifts. I like the options you have at 1851 because you can mix it up and you can always find something to eat.”
A big concern students have about getting jobs while studying is the hours. Students don’t know if they can balance a full-time school schedule and work on top of that. However, Vato is accommodating for Anuda and the other employees.
“Honestly, that is something Vato Tacos and their whole team have been really good at. They understand that school comes first. They are open and communicative, and they expect the same from me. It does take a second to balance school and work and make them both work together while being successful in both areas, but it is possible. I struggled with it at first, but I just had to prioritize work and school and worry a little less about some other stuff,” Anuda explained.
Not only can students apply to jobs on campus by looking on Indeed or FSU’s hiring website, but multiple campus spots also have QR codes you can scan to apply. This makes applying to jobs quicker and easier for both the employer and possible future employees. Through word-of-mouth and the QR code, Anuda felt inclined to apply to Vato Tacos. The same day he was in class and was offered a position.
Anuda seems to enjoy his time at Vato Tacos and doesn’t plan on leaving any time soon. He was promoted to shift lead in early November. Anuda shares, “I worked hard, and it paid off. My bosses saw the work I was putting in and offered me a promotion with a raise. I would 100% recommend getting a job on campus. It’s a great way to meet new people while making money and maybe learn a new skill or two.”
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