With an array of interesting clubs and groups to join, events to participate in and numerous trips to sign up for, it is not hard to list all of the fun opportunities we benefit from as Blue Jays. Aside from all of that, another important aspect of college life that many students partake in is working on campus. At Etown, there are almost always openings for jobs on or near campus that students can apply for. This makes it easy for students to have the opportunity to be a part of their college community in a different way, and it also helps them make some extra cash. This is not only a convenience for some students, but it can also serve as a way of life for others. It helps to build work experience, create opportunities to make new friends and develop leadership skills.
When I decided to study abroad in the United Kingdom for a year, I was told that I needed to apply for a student visa, since I would be studying and living in a different country for more than six months. Through this process, I was told that my visa would also allow me to work a maximum of 20 hours a week, if I would like, and if I was able to find a job. I was told that the chances of getting a job anywhere international were slim to none. This was hard for me to believe.
At Etown, I have had the opportunity to apply for and work for multiple positions in Dining Services and the Office of Student Activities (OSA). Regardless, I went into my trip thinking that it would be nearly impossible to be able to find a job as easily as I could at Etown.
To my surprise, I found it was much easier to find job opportunities as a student than I originally thought; many were willing to hire me. The University of Gloucestershire has a student website with a wide range of information for students, including job openings, both on and off campus, that is similar to Etown’s. Through this website, I was able to get a job with an agency called STA Travel, which was a short walk from my dorm.
STA Travel is the world’s largest travel organization, whose main audience is students wishing to travel around the world. I was hired as a campus brand manager and was paid to promote several campaigns on campus by distributing flyers and posters, as well as interacting and engaging with students at my university.
Working for STA Travel was an extremely rewarding experience. I was able to work as a student in the United Kingdom and further develop my skills in promotion, public speaking and leadership. Most importantly, I was able to meet and converse with hundreds of different people, adults and students alike, in the United Kingdom. Not to mention, I was paid well through working with the company and, therefore, was able to save more money towards traveling and experiences throughout my stay in the United Kingdom. I could not have asked for a better experience in the workplace while studying abroad.
