Finding Your Perfect Part-Time Gig at UNC Chapel Hill: A Student's Guide
Hey everyone! So, you're at UNC Chapel Hill, one of the best universities in the country. Congrats! You're probably soaking in the Tar Heel spirit, navigating campus, & getting a world-class education. But let's be real for a second. College is expensive. Between tuition, books, late-night pizza runs, & just…living, having some extra cash in your pocket can make a HUGE difference.
That’s where a part-time job comes in. But it's not just about the money. A good part-time gig can give you valuable experience, help you build your resume, & even introduce you to some of your best friends. The key is finding something that fits your schedule, your interests, & your financial goals.
Honestly, it can be a little overwhelming to figure out where to even start looking. That's why I've put together this comprehensive guide to finding the best part-time jobs for UNC students. We'll cover everything from on-campus gigs with flexible hours to off-campus opportunities that get you out into the Chapel Hill community. We’ll even dive into internships, research positions, & the ever-growing world of the gig economy.
So grab a cup of coffee from The Daily Grind, settle in, & let's find you a job.
The On-Campus Hustle: Working Where You Learn
One of the most convenient options for students is finding a job right on campus. The commute is unbeatable (just a walk from your dorm or class!), & your employers understand that you're a student first. They're usually pretty flexible with scheduling around exams & holidays. Here are some of the best places to look for on-campus work:
UNC Libraries: More Than Just Books
The UNC Libraries are one of the largest student employers on campus, hiring over 400 students each year. And it’s not just about shelving books (though that is an option if you’re looking for something quiet & organized). Library jobs are surprisingly diverse. You could be doing anything from administrative tasks & data entry to assisting with special collections & archives.
Here’s a little taste of what you could be doing:
- Circulation Desk: If you’re a people person, working at the front desk of one of the many campus libraries could be a great fit. You’ll be checking books in & out, helping students find what they’re looking for, & generally being a friendly face.
- Resource Services: This is more of a behind-the-scenes gig. You might be involved in ordering new books, managing periodicals, or preparing materials for the shelves. Attention to detail is key here.
- Special Collections & Archives: For the history buffs & aspiring researchers, working in Special Collections is a dream. You could be handling rare books, processing archival materials, & even assisting researchers with their projects.
- IT Support: The libraries also have a tech side. If you're good with computers, you could work at the ITS Service Desk, helping fellow students with their tech troubles.
The pay is competitive, the hours are flexible, & you’ll learn a ton about how a major research library operates. Plus, you’ll probably pick up some killer research skills that will come in handy for your own classes. Keep an eye on the UNC Libraries website & Handshake for job postings.
Campus Recreation: Get Paid to Play
If you’re the active type, a job with UNC Campus Recreation could be your perfect fit. They hire around 400 students a year in a variety of roles that keep you moving & engaged with the campus community.
Some of the cool jobs you can get at Campus Rec include:
- Facility Operations: This is the heart of Campus Rec. You could be working the front desk at one of the gyms, helping with equipment, or ensuring everything is running smoothly.
- Lifeguard: If you’ve got the certifications, lifeguarding at one of UNC’s pools is a great option. It’s a responsible gig that looks great on a resume.
- Intramural & Club Sports: Love sports? You can get paid to be a part of them. Campus Rec hires students to help run their intramural & club sports programs.
- Carolina Adventures: For the truly adventurous, Carolina Adventures has positions for climbing wall instructors, challenge course facilitators, & even expedition leaders.
Campus Rec is all about promoting well-being & inclusion, & they provide a ton of training & development for their student employees. They start hiring for the fall semester in April & for the spring semester in November, so plan ahead!
Carolina Dining Services: Fueling the Tar Heel Nation
Let’s be honest, food is a central part of the college experience. And you can be a part of making it happen. Carolina Dining Services (CDS) is always looking for students to work in their various locations across campus.
You could be working as a cashier, a baker, or a food service worker in one of the main dining halls. Or, you could snag a spot at one of the popular retail locations like Chick-fil-A, Subway, or Port City Java. The work is fast-paced, & you’ll definitely learn some valuable customer service skills. Plus, you’ll be at the center of campus life.
Other On-Campus Gems
The list of on-campus jobs doesn't stop there. Here are a few other departments that regularly hire students:
- UNC Student Stores: From selling textbooks to UNC merch, the Student Stores are a bustling hub of campus. They often have openings for retail associates.
- Carolina Union: The Carolina Union is the living room of the university, & they hire students for everything from event setup to information desk staff.
- UNC Transportation & Parking: This department also hires students for various roles, which could be a good fit if you’re interested in logistics & campus operations.
To find these & other on-campus jobs, your best bet is to check Handshake, the university's official job board. You can filter for on-campus positions & see all the latest openings in one place.
Off-Campus Adventures: Exploring Chapel Hill & Beyond
While on-campus jobs are super convenient, sometimes it’s nice to get away from the university bubble & explore what Chapel Hill has to offer. The town is full of businesses that love hiring UNC students.
Franklin Street: The Heart of the Action
Franklin Street is the main artery of Chapel Hill, & it’s packed with restaurants, shops, & cafes. Many of these places are looking for part-time help, especially during the school year.
- Restaurants: From casual spots to upscale dining, Franklin Street has it all. You can find jobs as a server, host, bartender, or kitchen staff. These jobs are great for developing your people skills, & the tips can be a nice bonus. Popular spots like Lantern, Zaxby's, and Panera Bread often have hiring signs up.
- Retail: If you’ve got a flair for fashion or just enjoy helping people find what they need, a retail job on Franklin Street could be a good fit. Stores like Light Years Jewelry often hire sales associates. You'll also find larger chains and small boutiques looking for staff.
The Greater Chapel Hill Area
Don’t limit your search to just Franklin Street. The surrounding areas of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, & even a short bus ride away in Durham have plenty of opportunities. You might find jobs in larger retail centers, grocery stores, or local businesses.
Internships & Research: Building Your Career Before You Graduate
Part-time jobs aren't just about earning beer money. They can also be a stepping stone to your future career. Internships & research opportunities are a fantastic way to get hands-on experience in your field of study.
Paid Internships: Earn While You Learn
Many companies in the Research Triangle Park (RTP) & the surrounding Raleigh-Durham area offer paid internships for college students. These are competitive, but they provide incredible experience & networking opportunities. The UNC Career Center is your go-to resource for finding these internships. They can help you with your resume, cover letter, & interview skills.
You can also find internship opportunities through departmental websites & by talking to your professors. Some departments even offer course credit for internships. And don't forget about platforms like Parker Dewey, which offer "micro-internships" – short-term, paid projects that let you explore different career paths.
Paid Research: Get Involved in Discovery
UNC is a major research university, & there are tons of opportunities for undergraduates to get involved in cutting-edge research. And yes, you can get paid for it!
Finding a paid research position can take a little more effort than finding a typical part-time job. Here are some tips:
- Check Departmental Resources: Many departments have their own listservs or bulletin boards where they post research opportunities.
- Talk to Your Professors: Let your professors know you’re interested in research. They might have a spot in their own lab or know of a colleague who does.
- Be Proactive: Don’t be afraid to reach out to professors whose research you find interesting. Read some of their papers, & send them a thoughtful email expressing your interest. Even if they don’t have an opening, they might be able to point you in the right direction.
- Work-Study: If you have a work-study award, there are often research assistant positions available specifically for work-study students.
Getting involved in research as an undergrad is an amazing experience. You’ll develop critical thinking skills, learn from experts in your field, & maybe even get your name on a publication.
The Gig Economy: Flexibility is King
Sometimes, a traditional part-time job with a set schedule just doesn’t work with a busy college student’s life. That’s where the gig economy comes in. These jobs offer ultimate flexibility, allowing you to work when you want, as much as you want.
Delivery & Ridesharing
Companies like DoorDash, Uber Eats, & Instacart are always looking for drivers. If you have a car, this can be a great way to earn money on your own schedule. You can work for a few hours between classes or pick up some extra shifts on the weekends.
Freelancing & Task-Based Work
Are you a great writer, a talented artist, or a whiz at social media? You can offer your skills as a freelancer. Websites like Upwork & Fiverr connect freelancers with clients from all over the world.
There are also local gig companies, some even started by UNC students, that connect students with short-term jobs like cleaning, event staffing, or yard work. These can be a great way to make some quick cash without a long-term commitment.
A Different Kind of Gig: Prked
Here’s a really interesting & low-effort way to make some extra money: renting out your unused space. If you have a parking spot you’re not using, especially in a prime location near campus or downtown, you could be sitting on a little goldmine.
That's where Prked comes in. It's a platform that connects people who need parking with people who have extra space. You can list your driveway or garage on Prked & earn passive income without much effort at all. It’s a pretty cool way to make some extra cash to help with tuition, books, or just your weekend adventures.
And it’s not just about parking. If you have an empty closet, attic, or basement space, you can also use Prked to rent it out for storage. It's a super flexible way to make your space work for you.
Balancing Work & Your Studies: Tips for Success
Juggling a part-time job & a full course load can be tricky, but it’s definitely doable. Here are a few tips to help you stay on top of everything:
- Be Realistic: Don’t overcommit yourself. Start with a few hours a week & see how it feels. You can always pick up more shifts later if you find you have the time.
- Time Management is Key: Use a planner or a calendar app to schedule your classes, study time, work hours, & social activities. Seeing everything laid out can help you stay organized.
- Communicate with Your Employer: Be upfront with your boss about your school schedule & any big deadlines or exams you have coming up. Most employers who hire students are understanding & will work with you.
- Don’t Forget to Take Breaks: It’s important to schedule some downtime to relax & recharge. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
- Prioritize Your Health: Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, & getting some exercise. Your physical & mental health are the foundation for everything else.
Finding the right part-time job can be a game-changer for your college experience. It can provide you with financial freedom, valuable skills, & a sense of independence. Whether you’re working in the library, serving on Franklin Street, interning at a local company, or trying out the gig economy with something like Prked, there are so many opportunities out there for UNC students.
I hope this guide was helpful in getting you started on your job search. Good luck, & Go Heels! Let me know what you think in the comments below.
