Student life is all about saving money and budgeting as much as possible.
Some cities are more expensive to live in than others, and the amount of money you recieve in your loans differs for everyone.
To support your studies and get some work experience, you may want to get a job while you’re studying. But how do you do it? If you’re a UK native, you can work as much as you want, but if you’re an international student, you can only work up to 20 hours per week during the school term, but you can work full time when the term is out.
Here are a few ways you can get a job while you’re a student to help you save money and support your student life.
1. Write a CV
A CV is a key part to getting an interview for a job, and without one no employer will consider you. A CV will showcase your skills and experience to show the employer what you can offer them if they hire you.
Take some time to write a CV that shows your skills and experience. If you’ve never had a job before, focus on any academic achievements or extracurricular activities you’re proud of. They will help make your CV shine and make it more likely for the employer to give you an interview. Some universities may also have a service where they can help you write an effective CV, so do some research to find out if your university does.
2. Check Out Online Jobs Boards
The main way to apply for jobs these days is to do it online. There are so many sites to choose from but sites like Indeed are the most popular. It can show you all the jobs available in your area and you can filter to find jobs you would most like.
Send out as many applications as you can and make sure to include your cover letter (more on that in the next point). Also make sure to only apply to part time jobs or the ones you know you can work around your studies. The last thing you want is for a temporary job to impact your studies.
3. Focus on Your Cover Letter
The cover letter is almost as important as the CV, as it shows the employer who you are. You can express your desire to work there, and make sure to tell them what you can do for them rather than what they can do for you. Don’t say things like ‘working here will help me fund my studies and get experience’, frame it in a way that shows how competent and skilled you are and how it can help them.
4. Consider Self Employment
Another great way to make money and work around your own schedule is to try out freelance life. You may be a skilled photographer or artist, so you could sell those skills and build up a client base. You could reach into the world of copywriting or set up an Etsy store to sell prints or jewellery.
The possibilities are endless and you could find a great, fun vocation that brings in a little extra money each week. Make sure to do your research into registering as a sole trader and tax payments, you don’t want to get in legal trouble.
5. Go Through Your University
Many universities offer great, well paid jobs to students that are designed to fit around your studies and they look great on a CV. You could work as a student ambassador or library assistant, or even work as a fundraiser for your university.
There are a lot of great opportunities, and many universities also have their own careers service you can use. This can help you find a good job once you leave university as well as help you find relevant work experience while you’re still studying.
There are Lots of Ways to Get a Job at University in the UK
Working as a student is a great way to make some extra money and steep clear of your overdraft for as long as possible. It’s also a great way to add experience and new skills to your CV so that once you leave university, you’ve got a much better chance of getting hired somewhere great.
Do you still need to find student accommodation for your time in the UK? Check out our top tips for finding a place and book with us.
