Work Study: Is it Right For You?

Whenever possible, I like to share interesting articles I have found that can help give you ideas for funding your education. If (when) you fill out your FAFSA, and you qualify for financial aid, you might see a line item for Work Study. The amount isn't usually a whole lot, but this means that you can work on campus and use the money to help cover the costs of your educational expenses. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/paying-for-college/articles/facts-about-the-federal-work-study-program

As a student at Vanderbilt University in the the late 1990s, I had Work Study as part of my financial aid package. I spent all my years there working at the campus pub and loved it! I met so many people I probably wouldn't have otherwise, and learned some important work skills. I was happy to have less to owe back at the end of college due to the opportunity. I learned a lot about myself, and oddly credit that pub job with vast personal growth.

Many schools will allow students to get jobs on campus even if they don't have Work Study listed in their financial aid packages. The students can use the money how they need. If a student's schedule allows, having a few hours a week of work can be rewarding and extremely helpful during their college education.