The US is a great country that offers many opportunities for students and expats. Hundreds or even thousands of job opportunities are waiting, even if you are still studying. If you have the passion and ambition to follow your dream, you can earn a decent income while still studying in the US.
Students who want a part-time job or need money to pay off their student debt can always apply for jobs. You only need to know where to find one and how you can apply.
In this guide, you'll learn how you can grab the opportunity to earn an income and continue to fund your college education. Check out how to apply for part-time jobs in the USA, which are perfect for students and expats.
Benefits of Doing Part-Time Jobs in the USA
There are a lot of reasons why students and expats in the US are doing part-time jobs.
It's not only to help them financially but it can also mean that they are slowly understanding the real world.
This can help them once they graduate. Here are some of the benefits of working part-time jobs in the US.
Work Experience
Part-time jobs give you valuable experience and lessons that you learn while working.
Students who work part-time during their college years become more adept at work and are by far less likely to experience any type of culture shock.
This can also be demonstrated by their ability to adapt to different work environments.
Financial Support
One of the main reasons why students and expats work part-time jobs is to financially support themselves.
Some might want to pay off their student loan by working as early as possible, while others simply need to put food on the table or pay for their rent and studies.
Networking Opportunities
Being exposed to work as early as your college years also means that you are exposed to different kinds of people that you may benefit from later on.
Working will always be a good way for you to meet new people, and along the way, you start working relationships with them.
This is highly beneficial especially if you want to stay working for such a company after you graduate. This can help build a strong professional network that will help you land more jobs in the future.
Where to Find Part-Time Jobs in the US
Finding part-time jobs can be quite difficult, especially in the US, where most establishments offer only full-time jobs.
Part-time jobs often disrupt the normal working hours of many full-time workers hence the reason why most establishments don't offer part-time work.
There are still a lot of opportunities for part-time jobs if you know where to look. Here are some places where you can find part-time jobs in the US.
Online Job Platforms
One good way for students and expats in the US to find part-time jobs is to use the internet. Online job platforms such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn are great sources of part-time jobs.
Use the search function to find the jobs that you're looking for. You may also want to specify a location around your campus so you don't have to travel far to work. Take advantage of such an online job platform to get the job you like.
Check Social Media
Social media is also a great place to find local part-time jobs around the university. Join social media groups, especially those looking for part-time jobs. Most establishments join these groups to find part-time employees.
They also put out notices for job opportunities whenever they are available for you to apply.
University Resources
Your university offers a wide range of resources for students and expats who are looking for part-time job opportunities.
You can ask the student employment office or simply check job boards around your area to find student jobs.
Universities often partner with surrounding establishments and local businesses to hire students for such positions. There are also job fairs that cater to these businesses in the area.
Walk-In
Explore local establishments and businesses in the area around the university. They often look for part-time workers, such as students, to fill in some of their gaps.
Many stores might not advertise through online portals and job boards in universities so go ahead and walk into such places and ask for any job opportunities. Just bring your resume with you so you can apply immediately.
Check the Local Newspaper
You can also go with the more traditional route by checking the local newspaper.
Local newspapers and online community websites are great ways for you to find part-time jobs, especially in the area around the university.
How to Apply for Part-Time Jobs in the USA Perfect for Students and Expats
Applying for part-time jobs for students and expats depends on the kind of job that you're applying for and where you're applying.
Whether you're applying online or directly to the employer, there are certain things that you need to do. Check it out below.
When Applying Online
When you apply online, ensure you have digital copies of the documents required for employment.
These can be health certificates, bank accounts, or simply work permits. Head over to the online portal and apply by creating an account.
Fill out the application form and submit it together with your documents. Make sure that you fully understand the job responsibilities before you even apply.
When Applying In-Person
Always bring several copies of your resume and cover letter when applying in person. Apply by asking for the manager and submitting your documents.
Be ready to be interviewed on the spot, as some establishments might need part-time employees.
If you're lucky, you might immediately get the job after the interview, so be prepared.
Conclusion
Finding a part-time job in the US as a student or expat is quite easy. You only need to know how and where you can find these jobs, and applying for them will be the next step. Be sure to prepare everything first if you plan to apply for part-time jobs. These establishments are often very accommodating to students and expats. Good luck.
