There are multiple benefits of working as a student employee. Having some extra cash while attending school is always a plus for a student, however, there’s more to student jobs than making money. Other benefits include developing time management skills, gaining valuable work skills and employment experience that will enhance a resume’, and developing professional relationships that can lead to future letters of support and recommendation. During the last academic year, Missouri State University had in excess of 2,700 student employees who provided over 1,000,000 hours of services.
What is work-study? The Federal work-study program is based on financial need as determined by a student’s completed federal aid application, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FASFA. Work-study students are paid through federal funding that is allocated to the university. Work-study student employees are paid the same as any student employee; a direct deposit is set up through the new hire paperwork process and all pay earned is distributed accordingly. A student can use their earnings in any manner they see fit; they are not required to use the money to pay on their tuition account. However, they are welcome to do so if they choose!
Unfortunately, the number of students who qualify for work-study is much greater than the allotment that the university receives. If a student doesn’t qualify or is not awarded work-study, there are still many jobs both on and off campus for which they can apply. If their financial aid awards did not include work-study, a student can apply for any job postings that indicate “work-study optional” or “off-campus employers.”
There are a large variety of job opportunities for students. Most departments on campus have student employees and there are in excess of 500 off-campus employers that use our applicant portal to post off-campus positions. The automated application system at MSU makes viewing and applying for jobs an easy process. To access the online applicant system, use the following web address: www.missouristate.edu/findajob
The first step in this process is to create an applicant profile. Once a profile is created an online application is completed that can be used to apply for multiple jobs. The completed application remains on the student’s profile and is available to upload to desired postings at any time. Once a job is obtained, it’s important that the student bring their driver’s license and social security card or passport to campus. These items will be required when completing new hire paperwork before starting a new job!
Contact the Office of Student Employment with any questions:
Phone – (417) 836-5627
studentemployment@missouristate.edu
Blair Shannon 113