Pros and Cons of Working Off-Campus

Whether you are considering working off campus or are already employed in town, there are a few pros and cons you should consider. 

Pro #1: More MoneyOn campus you can only make so much money during one semester, but if you get a job off campus you could make twice to three times as much a week!

Con #1: The Travel

Getting to work off campus can be a challenge depending on the distance.  Tampa traffic is so unpredictable and can be a real headache when you are running late, because it takes you fifteen minutes just to walk to your car that is parked all the way across campus.  If you are walking to work because it isn’t far or you just don’t have a car, you still get all hot and sweaty or rained on because Florida weather, just like the traffic is, well, unpredictable. 

Pro #2: More Connections

A great thing about working off campus is all the other connections you have the possibility to make.  You are no longer stuck in the UT bubble and get to meet people from all different backgrounds, occupations, and ages. Getting out and in town can also lead you to meeting people that are in the field you are interested in and if you are lucky they may even be able to give you a good word and an even better job opportunity.

Con #2: The Schedule 

Dealing with companies that don’t understand working around your schedule can be difficult. When an event you really need to go to comes up, but found out about it last minute and it just so happens it’s at the one time you work, it is harder to get out of the situation. 

Pro #3: More real life experience 

Working off campus allows you to have real life experiences such as how to deal with the rude customer, not just the bratty college kid. 

Con #3: Vacation time is unlikely

When you work on campus, your vacation time is already planned into your schedule.  If you work off campus they may need you to work on certain holidays, especially if it is a small retail place!  Bye, bye, Thanksgiving break! 

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