As incoming Freshman, you are all probably wondering what work study is and how you can take advantage of  it. When I was a Freshman, I had all these questions and more! So I made sure I did my research and asked questions! Here are two sites that you guys might find helpful, in answering any questions you might currently have about work study:

https://www.fao.ucla.edu/wrkstd_student/

http://www.fao.ucla.edu/faqs_workstudy.htm.

When I found out that I was offered work study,  I had no idea what it was. Basically, it is federally funded program that allows students to earn money for college costs through part-time employment; the students’ wages are split between the federal government and the student’s employer. So all in all, the employer benefits because they don’t have to pay the complete wage, as they do with a regular employee, without work study. The student benefits too because the employers are usually on campus and they understand that your priority is to be a student first, which always works in your advantage. At the same time, all the same rules still apply to you as any other employee, so it is important to be responsible and show up to work on time, clock in and clock out accurately, etc.

My first job was as an assistant at the Admissions office at UCLA. I had an amazing time and worked along other current UCLA students. My supervisors were always cooperative with my schedule and made it clear that I was a full-time student. Thus, if I needed anytime off from work or had a midterm/big project coming up, they were always more than happy to accommodate me with my schedule. Soon afterwards, I started applying to other campus jobs, that did not necessarily require work study, but allowed it as an option that could be applied towards employment. After all, everybody benefits from it!

Since my second year, I have been working as an ASK Peer Counselor and as a Bruin Ambassador (yes, two jobs ladies and gents). I LOVE LOVE LOVE my jobs! They make me very happy because not only am I earning money, but I have met amazing people, who are also UCLA students and now, my friends. It also makes it better that both of my supervisors are amazing, knowledgeable, and respectable ladies. I can say that work study has made my life easier. It has not only made it easier to get a job (go on the work study website where a list of job openings are posted daily!) but it has allowed me to gain working experience, while earning my degree.

Both of my jobs encompass what I eventually want to do in the future- educational reform. The friendships and knowledge I have gained while being employed is irreplaceable. Looking forward to my last and final year as a UCLA undergrad, I will continue to work at both of my jobs. In fact, I was recently promoted to be a Bruin Ambassador Coordinator and hope to work along with other co and supervisor to take the Bruin Ambassadors Program to the top!

I would definitely recommend for those who have work study to take fully advantage of it! It is a one-of-a-kind employment opportunity! Get informed, ask questions, and take advantage of what can be an amazing run for you. Who doesn’t want to earn money while in school? Extra cash doesn’t hurt anyone :). Working and being a full-time students has, in a weird way, helped me to better track my time and stay focused. The busier I am, the more focused I am.

If you have any questions, need help, or want to know more about my jobs and what I do, do not hesitate to leave a comment :). I am more than happy to help any of you out! WORK IT! GO BRUINS!