Best part-time jobs at University of Michigan

By Angela Son on October 28, 2012

Tuition, textbooks, food and more add to the everyday expenses of college students. What are the best part-time jobs at University of Michigan that pay well, are fun and are located on campus? I’ve narrowed them down to four categories. My suggestions for the best part-time jobs at university are either to work for school—easy job, easy money—or stores where you can benefit from employee discount.

1. School library

Courtesy of mlibrary.umich.edu

Whenever I walk into the Undergraduate Library on campus, I see student employees sitting at the circulation desk and working on their homework with their books wide open on the desk, only periodically pausing to check out books for and address questions of students.

Word of mouth tells me library jobs are considered to be the most sought-after part-time jobs at university because of its light workload and flexible hours. But they are hard to come by because of its popular demand. The job might feel repetitive checking out one book after another and putting back one book after another into the shelf. However, being surrounded by other students working hard would motivate you to work harder. This is one of part-time jobs at university that would lead you to academic success.

You can check out the umich libraries’ recent openings for student assistant positions here.

2. Bookstore

Courtesy of wikipediacommons.com

‘Who goes to bookstores these days?’ One might ask. Yes, as an English and Psychology major, I have no problem finding most of my textbooks on websites such as half.com or Abebooks. But we all know some books (especially ones written by your professor) are only available in local bookstores. We also know the price of textbooks is high and sometimes comes without discount. Working at a local textbook store will remedy this.

Especially during the busy season of college textbook sales (first month of every semester), local bookstores look for part-time employees to help them out with the rush. The compensation might not be much, but the flexible scheduling and work hours makes this one of the best part-time jobs at university. Contact Ulrichs on South University or Barnes and Noble in the basement of the Union building for recent openings.
3. Your favorite retail store

Courtesy of Bivouac

If you’re into fashion, part-time jobs at university as sales associate is the one for you.  Folding clothes and guiding people to the fitting room might not be your ideal job. Yes, part-time jobs at university retail stores could underpay you, but working for your favorite store on campus has the advantage of receiving a huge employee discount up to 30%. Some of my favorite stores on campus include Bivouac, Urban Outfitters and Underground Printing. If you’re into vintage or cheap recycled clothing, be sure to ask for employment opportunities at Star Vintage, the Getup or Ragstock.

4. Learn to become a barista

Courtesy of infoescolda.com

Mixing drinks, whether alcoholic or not, is fun. The last of the four part-time jobs at university is a barista. Mostly you’ll be following the recipe, but there’s a room to get creative. Personally, learning to become a barista is one of those useful skills that I’d like to have but wouldn’t have time for after college. Working as a barista will not only benefit you with free coffees every morning but the opportunity to create, mix and stir your favorite cup of coffee. Contact your favorite coffee shop on campus: for part-time jobs at university as a barista: Comet Coffee, Espresso Royale, Starbucks, Biggby Coffee and many more.

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