As mentioned briefly in my last article, part-time jobs work wonders on enhancing your CV. I’ve had one since I was 15 and still look forward to returning there during the holidays, but it’s not just the CV boost that keeps me going back. I’ve thought of 4 key reasons why getting a part-time job while you’re at uni can be a lot of fun.
1. The money.
I may be stating the obvious here, but getting a part-time job means that you’ll have more money for food, nights out, and (of course) shopping! Even if you only work for a few hours a week, the extra income will allow you to do the things you want without worrying quite so much about living off beans on toast for the next month. Most employers in the hospitality and retail sectors need flexible employees who will be willing to do the odd bit of overtime, and if your timetable allows, it can be the perfect way of boosting your income.
2. The friends.
On top of earning extra cash, getting a part-time job can lead to good friendships with a variety of people that you perhaps would not have gotten to know before. I know that throughout school, some of my closest friends were those I worked with, and I always looked forward to seeing them both inside and outside of work. There will be work socials, the Christmas party and maybe even potential for an office-style romance…
3. The staff discount.
Okay, so I don’t think that this is the only reason you should get a part-time job, but it is a lovely bonus. Many retailers give their staff up to 75% discount on top of a uniform allowance, so you can feel slightly less guilty when you look at your bank statement and see 20 Topshop transactions. Even if you don’t work in retail, many other sectors offer perks. Often with waitressing jobs you get free food during your shift (yay!), and maybe even some extra to bring back to your housemates who will love you FOREVER.
4. The skills.
If you’re lucky and manage to get a part-time job in the company or sector that you’d like to work in as a graduate, then a part-time job offers the perfect opportunity to demonstrate your passion and dedication. However, I understand that most of you won’t want to stay in your part-time job forever, but you also gain a set of transferable skills that employers will LOVE when you graduate. Having a part-time job shows that you can effectively manage your time between uni and working, that you can work as part of a team and that you have not just spent your weekends sleeping and watching romcoms.
So there we have it – 4 of my top reasons for getting a part-time job during your time at uni. Of course, there are many other benefits but I think that these are the biggest ones for girls like us.