The Ultimate Guide to Part-Time Jobs for UCLA Students: Your Playbook for Earning & Learning
Hey there, future Bruin millionaire (or at least, a Bruin who can afford boba without checking their bank account first). If you're heading to UCLA, you're probably buzzing with excitement about everything from classes to clubs. But let's be real, Los Angeles isn't exactly the cheapest place to live. That's where a part-time job comes in, not just as a way to make some cash, but also as a way to gain experience, meet new people, & build a killer resume.
Honestly, figuring out the whole part-time job scene at a place as massive as UCLA can feel like trying to find a parking spot in Westwood on a Friday night – nearly impossible. But don't sweat it. I'm here to give you the inside scoop on everything you need to know about finding & balancing a part-time job as a UCLA student. We're talking on-campus gigs, off-campus opportunities, work-study secrets, & real talk from students who've been there, done that.
Why Even Bother with a Part-Time Job at UCLA?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of where to find a job, let's talk about why you should even consider it. The obvious answer is money. College is expensive, & having your own income can make a HUGE difference. It can mean less student loan debt, the ability to afford a car, or just having some extra spending money for all those late-night Diddy Riese runs.
But here's the thing, it's not just about the money. A part-time job can also be a game-changer for your personal & professional development. You'll learn valuable skills like time management, communication, & teamwork. You'll get a taste of the working world & maybe even discover a passion you never knew you had. Plus, having a job on your resume, especially one related to your major, can give you a serious edge when it comes to landing internships & full-time positions after graduation. Benjamin Sullivan-Douglas, a UCLA student with an internship at a space weather company, put it perfectly: "internship experience in the engineering field is the key to getting good jobs after college."
And let's not forget the social aspect. Working a part-time job is a great way to meet people outside of your classes & clubs. Aiden Georgiev, a first-year UCLA student working at In-N-Out, said one of the benefits of his job is the "tight knit group of friends I've made through working with them." So, while the extra cash is nice, the experience & connections you'll make are priceless.
The Big Question: On-Campus or Off-Campus?
This is one of the first decisions you'll have to make when you start your job search. Both on-campus & off-campus jobs have their pros & cons, so it really comes down to what you're looking for.
On-Campus Jobs: The Ultimate Convenience
Let's be honest, the convenience of an on-campus job is hard to beat. You can literally roll out of bed & be at work in minutes. Plus, on-campus employers are used to working with students, so they're usually pretty flexible when it comes to scheduling around classes & exams. Hope Shin, a UCLA student who worked at the Asian American Studies Center Library, said her boss was understanding about her academic commitments, especially around midterms & finals.
Here are some of the most popular on-campus job hubs for UCLA students:
ASUCLA (Associated Students UCLA): This is the mothership of on-campus employment. ASUCLA runs a ton of businesses on campus, including the UCLA Store, restaurants in the Ackerman Student Union, & various student services. They're always hiring for positions like cashiers, baristas, & retail associates. The great thing about ASUCLA jobs is that they're designed for students, so they're super flexible & a great way to meet other Bruins.
UCLA Library: With multiple libraries on campus, there are always opportunities for students to work as library assistants. These jobs are often a bit quieter & can sometimes allow you to get some studying done during downtime. The application process is usually straightforward, with an online form where you can list your skills & availability.
UCLA Recreation: If you're a fitness enthusiast, a job at one of UCLA's recreational facilities, like the John Wooden Center, could be a perfect fit. You could work at the front desk, as a lifeguard, or even as a marketing photographer for their events.
Departmental Jobs & Research Assistantships: This is where things can get really exciting, especially if you're looking for a job that's related to your major. Many academic departments hire students for administrative tasks, & professors often look for undergraduate research assistants. These positions are not only a great way to earn money but also to gain valuable experience & build relationships with faculty members. Keep an eye out for listings in your department's newsletter or on their website.
Off-Campus Jobs: Expanding Your Horizons
While on-campus jobs are convenient, don't rule out the possibility of working off-campus. Westwood Village, right next to UCLA, is full of shops, restaurants, & businesses that are often looking to hire students. Working off-campus can give you a taste of life outside the "UCLA bubble" & help you feel more connected to the wider Los Angeles community.
One of the biggest challenges with off-campus jobs, however, can be transportation. If you have a car, you'll need to factor in the cost of gas & parking. And let's be real, parking in Westwood can be a nightmare. This is where a service like Prked can be a lifesaver. Prked connects you with homeowners who are renting out their driveways & garages for parking. It's a super convenient & often more affordable way to find a parking spot near your off-campus job, so you can get to work on time without the stress of circling the block for half an hour.
Here are some popular off-campus job options for UCLA students:
Retail & Food Service: Westwood is packed with clothing stores, coffee shops, & restaurants that are always in need of part-time help. These jobs are great for developing customer service skills & can offer flexible hours.
Tutoring & Babysitting: If you're good with kids & have a strong academic record, tutoring or babysitting can be a great way to earn some extra cash. Websites like Uloop often have listings for these types of jobs in the UCLA area.
Internships: For students looking for career-related experience, an off-campus internship can be invaluable. The UCLA Career Center's On-Campus Recruiting (OCR) program connects students with top companies for internships & entry-level positions. While many of these are unpaid, some do offer a stipend or hourly wage.
Cracking the Code: The UCLA Work-Study Program
If you've filled out the FAFSA, you may have seen something about "work-study." So, what exactly is it? Essentially, work-study is a form of financial aid that you earn through a part-time job. The federal government pays a portion of your wages, which makes it more attractive for employers to hire you.
Here's a breakdown of how it works at UCLA:
- It's Need-Based: Work-study is awarded to students who demonstrate financial need.
- Award Amounts Vary: The amount you're awarded can range from $1,000 to $3,000 for the academic year.
- You're Paid by the Hour: You'll receive a regular paycheck for the hours you work.
- The Money You Earn Doesn't Count Against You: The earnings from a work-study job won't affect your financial aid eligibility for the following year.
There are a few different work-study programs at UCLA, including the Federal Work-Study program, a university-funded program for DACA students, & programs like Jumpstart & America Reads that focus on community service.
The key thing to remember about work-study is that it's not free money. You have to find a work-study eligible job & work the hours to earn your award. You can work a maximum of 20 hours per week during the academic year, & if you don't use your full award, you don't get the remaining balance. A Reddit user explained it well, saying, "if you end up not working the maximum number of hours... you won't 'get' the full amount of the work-study award."
The Art of the Hustle: Finding & Applying for Jobs
Now that you know what's out there, how do you actually go about finding & landing a job? Here are some of your best resources:
UCLA Handshake: This is UCLA's official job & internship portal. It's where you'll find listings for on-campus jobs, off-campus positions, internships, & work-study opportunities. You'll definitely want to keep your profile updated & check it regularly for new postings.
UCLA Career Center: The Career Center is an invaluable resource for students. They host workshops on resume writing & interview skills, & their On-Campus Recruiting (OCR) program is a great way to connect with employers.
Departmental Websites & Newsletters: As I mentioned earlier, many academic departments have their own job listings. Make sure you're on your department's email list so you don't miss out on any opportunities.
Job Fairs: Keep an eye out for job fairs on campus, especially at the beginning of the school year. This is a great way to meet with a bunch of employers in one place & maybe even get hired on the spot.
Word of Mouth: Don't underestimate the power of networking. Talk to your friends, classmates, & TAs. You never know who might have a lead on a great job.
When it comes to applying for jobs, make sure you tailor your resume & cover letter to each position. Highlight the skills & experiences that are most relevant to the job you're applying for. And don't be discouraged if you don't hear back right away. The job market can be competitive, so just keep at it.
The Balancing Act: Juggling Work, School, & a Social Life
This is the part that a lot of students worry about, & for good reason. UCLA is a demanding school, & adding a part-time job to the mix can be a challenge. But trust me, it's doable. It all comes down to time management & finding the right balance.
Here are some tips from students who have been in your shoes:
Be Realistic About Your Hours: Don't take on more than you can handle, especially in your first year. A good starting point is around 10-12 hours a week. You can always increase your hours later on if you feel like you can manage it.
Use a Planner: Whether it's a physical planner or a digital one, having a schedule is key. Block out your classes, work shifts, & study time. This will help you stay organized & make sure you're not overcommitting yourself.
Find a Job with Downtime: Some jobs, like working at a library front desk, may allow you to do some reading or homework during slow periods. This can be a great way to make the most of your time.
Don't Be Afraid to Say No: It's okay to turn down a social invitation if you need to study or just have some downtime. Your friends will understand.
Take Advantage of Campus Resources: UCLA has a ton of resources to help students succeed, from tutoring centers to wellness programs. If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to reach out for help.
It's also important to acknowledge that working a part-time job might mean making some sacrifices. Anna Kim, a UCLA student who works at Taco Bell, said that while her job has been a positive experience, it can sometimes take away from her social life. It's all about finding a balance that works for you.
What About Storage?
Living in a dorm or a small apartment near campus often means limited space. If you're finding that your belongings are taking over your living area, you might want to consider a storage solution. And here's a little-known secret: you don't have to rent a traditional storage unit. With a service like Prked, you can find affordable & convenient storage space in someone's garage, attic, or even a spare closet. It's a great way to declutter your space without breaking the bank.
The Takeaway
So, there you have it – your comprehensive guide to part-time jobs for UCLA students. It might seem like a lot to take in, but the most important thing is to find a job that you enjoy & that fits with your academic goals. A part-time job can be a fantastic way to earn some money, gain experience, & make new friends. It's all part of the UCLA experience.
I hope this was helpful! Let me know what you think, & good luck with your job search
