Are you a student looking for work but do not have a transportation off campus? The Federal Work Study Program might be an option for you. To be eligible you must first fill out the Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FASFA) application, be pursuing a postsecondary educational degree or certificate, and display a financial need. On the Henniker Campus at New England College there is a vast variety of departments that have positions for work-study students.
If you are unsure about your eligibility you can check your financial aid reward at: https://ssb1.always.nec.edu/NECPROD/twbkwbis.P_GenMenu?name=homepage.
Once you have determined if you have Work Study in your award, the process of getting a job on campus is quite similar to any other job. Lily Geber, a junior, said she obtained her position at Danforth Library her freshman year.
“I went to the Connection Fair, put my name on list, filled out an application, and later on had an interview,” said Geber.
The Connections Fair during the fall semester is one of the ways that students can find the departments that are looking to hire. Mikayla Lawrence, a senior, didn’t wait for the Connections Fair to get her two different positions during her time on campus.
“I asked for the application through email and obtained the job in a ‘first-come first-serve’ manner,” said Lawrence.
Most Work Study positions on campus are on a first-come first-serve basis. Just because you have been awarded work study, doesn’t guarantee that you will have a position.
“Try and figure out if you have work study within the first week of school and start applying within the first two weeks because you will have more variety,” said Lawrence.
Students who are still having difficulties, or do not know where to begin can always visit the Student Financial Service Office, to find a list of all the hiring departments.
This program allows students to gain experience and build their resumes. “I was able to strengthen my communication skills and build my problem-solving skills. Also, I was able to learn a new skill like locking up a building,” said Geber.
Dylan Faraci, a first-year graduate student, is confident that with this experience in the program has prepared him for future careers. “I worked there for four years, had variety of different positions. Now I am the Graduate Assistant for the Athletic Communications here at NEC,” said Faraci.
Those who have been in the Federal Work Study Program, have advice that can be used right now or even further down a student’s career.
“Try to find something you enjoy. There’s more than just being a ball person at a game, and never be afraid to ask you supervisor if any additional work needs to be done,” said Faraci.
“Don’t overwhelm yourself with work, remember you are a student first,” said Geber.
If you have any other questions regarding work study you can contact Student Financial Services at sfs@nec.edu or 603.428.2226.
Nice article! We adore our work study student, Bryana Cabrera. She is learning about a field that is outside of her major, but she is up for the challenge!