Gaining Professional Experience on Campus
Splitting up your time between jobs off-campus and your studies can require a strict schedule that leaves you with little time to socialize with friends and family. Blocking out time to socialize and take breaks is incredibly important for our mental health and well-being as students.
Personally, this is what factored in into my decision to search for paid, on-campus employment at the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM). I applied for jobs through the Work-Study program, which allows students to translate their academic passions into meaningful career possibilities. In my experience, this program is incredibly flexible as I am only scheduled for shifts outside class times and my colleagues recognize my academic goals. Not only do I gain professional experience, but I also receive support and advice from my colleagues.
Keep reading to learn more about some jobs available through the Work-Study program and others you can apply for as a student!
Interesting Work-Study Positions Available
Sport Photographer with the Department of Recreation, Athletics & Wellness
Are you a creative individual? Capture those game highlights that have fans up from their seats! The Sport Photographer is responsible for photography and videography in various UTM Sports programming. In this role, you will have the opportunity to take snapshots of players’ emotions in the moment.
Rocky the UTM Eagle Mascot
Rocky the UTM Eagle is our beloved mascot who provides entertainment on campus, especially during games and events. As Rocky, you contribute to a welcoming fan experience and control crowds through positive energy and cheers. Regardless of who is wearing the costume, Rocky maintains a bright presence on campus.
Program Assistant at the Robert Gillespie Academic Skills Centre (RGASC)
Have you participated in course Facilitated Study Groups (FSGs) on campus, or have you facilitated in the past as an FSG Leader? If so, you would be a great fit for the Program Assistant (PA) position at the RGASC. PAs are senior facilitators who fulfill administrative, supervisory, and coaching responsibilities in the FSG program. In addition, theyoversee the development of FSG leaders. From their experience, they can fill in gaps between leaders and students to improve FSG programming. As students, you might have come across some courses that are more challenging, so why not help students access resources that will help them succeed?
Second-Year Support (SYS) Assistant at the Centre for Student Engagement (CSE)
Students coming into second year following the COVID-19 pandemic's disruption presents academic, emotional, and environmental challenges. They need extra support to transition into in-person learning and to be pointed to the right resources. Recognizing this new challenge, CSE designed the SYS program to address it. As an SYS Assistant, you can be part of the team that organizes this programming for second-year students!
Student Ambassador with Student Recruitment & Admissions (SRA)
Last, but certainly not least, you can join our team of Student Ambassadors! Maybe you’ve come across us on campus during Open House events or conducting campus tours. As a Student Ambassador, you can gain leadership and event planning skills through various areas such as Team Lead, Outreach, Campus Events, and Community Engagement. In this role, you will be responsible for recruiting prospective students through planning and executing open house events, collaborating with peers from various academic programs, and forming positive connections through campus tours.
Opportunities Available at Other UTM Departments
Of course, the above example are only a small example of the many positions available on campus. Check out the other departments listed below who also offer both paid and volunteer positions:
The International Education Centre (IEC) offers services to support and enhance the experience of global students through immigration support and the implementation of intercultural programming. The IEC is always looking for current students to help organize intercultural events and workshops, and provide support for international students.
The Experiential Education Unit (EEU) is here to help students find enhanced learning opportunities outside the classroom. From Research Opportunity Programs (ROP) to academic internships, the EEU can assist you in finding rewarding experiences!
The Health & Counselling Centre (HCC) has a Wellness at UTM initiative which aims to ensure students have healthy structures and systems in place as they pursue success. Wellness Ambassadors conduct outreach to inform the campus community of wellness practices they can incorporate in their day-to-day life.
Student Housing & Residence Life (SHRL) seeks to foster connections between students living on residence. With the help of Residence Dons and Residence Education Facilitators, students learn about the proper resources and can experience a fulfilling campus life while staying in residence. Every year, SHRL invites students to apply to join their team and contribute to the rich programming they offer.
The Career Centre prepares students for life after graduation through networking events, job shadow programs, and more! They are always looking to hire student staff assistants every year who can help them update and maintain the resources students need to advance their careers.
Working on campus offers an enriching experience for all students who take part. No matter what you’re interested in, there’s a job posting here on campus waiting for you to apply!