In a previous blog post, I referred to the “smooth landing” I was aiming for in my return to academic life. From my previous experience as a commercial pilot, landing the plane smoothly required a well-planned approach with minimal distractions. In academic terms, this meant focusing exclusively on school work during the first term. As I got a good feel for academic life, I began volunteering with the York University Mature Students Organization (YUMSO) (which by the way, I highly recommend all mature students look into!). However I eventually faced the inevitable: I needed a part-time job to help pay the bills. Volunteer schedules are always flexible, but jobs not so much. I was worried that a job commitment would risk blowing my academic airplane off the runway. Then someone recommended I look for a campus job.
Why Work on Campus?
Campus jobs are often catered specifically to the needs of students. Consider these benefits:
- Flexible hours that work with your course timetable.
- Save the cost and time associated with traveling to/from work.
- Many jobs are program-related and provide work experience in your area of study.
- Increase your level of engagement within the York community.
How to Find a Campus Job
The Career Centre hosts an online job posting system located here. You will be asked to sign up for an account the first time you sign in. To find jobs posted specifically for York students, click the Job Postings tab at the top and select “On-Campus” under Position Type. If you have a particular job in mind, try using the Keywords box and enter the job title, description, employer name, etc. After you have created your personal profile and uploaded your resume, you can apply for jobs directly from the site. You can even set up to receive automatic notifications when new jobs are posted that meet your criteria.
Financial Aid Job Programs
Student Financial Services administers several on-campus work programs designed to provide flexible employment opportunities to those in financial need. If you’re eligible for OSAP, you’re likely eligible for employment under one of these programs. Click on the following links for more information including eligibility requirements:
- Research at York (RAY) – Paid on-campus research opportunities
- College Life at York (CLAY) – Employment within one of York’s colleges
- York Engaged Students (YES) – Peer mentoring, ambassadorship, advising
- Work/Study – Various other jobs on campus
Positions covered by these programs are posted on the Career Centre’s online system. You must also complete the Student Financial Profile to determine whether or not you qualify for one of these programs.
This post concludes my 3-part series on financial aid at York University. I hope you have found some useful information on ways to help fund your education. Remember, a little planning goes a long way!
