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Career Services News

Steps to a Successful On-Campus Job Search

From the Center for Career Services

Posted in: Career Services General News

Feature image for Steps to a Successful On-Campus Job Search

The Center for Career Services works with a variety of on-campus departments seeking students for employment opportunities.  There are two types of on-campus, student positions.  The first type is Federal Work Study (FWS), which is available to eligible students who have received a work study allocation in their financial aid packages.  Students who have Federal Work Study funds should apply to on-campus positions that are designated for FWS students, although they may apply to Student Assistant positions as well.  To determine eligibility for these positions, and financial aid in general, visit the Financial Aid office in College Hall, Room 208.

The second type of on-campus position is the Student Assistant (SA) position, which is a program that offers on-campus, part-time jobs to students who do not qualify for FWS.  Here are a few steps to conduct a successful on-campus job search for both types of employment opportunities.

Complete your student employment application:

  • The FWS application and SA application are available online.  Remember to print the application that is relevant to the position type you are seeking.
  • Once you have completed the application, make several copies for different departments and offices.

Be sure to look out for departments whose applications are generally sent out via email or are available online, such as Residence Life, Campus Recreation and the Office of Information Technology.  These departments may have different hiring periods, so it is important to inquire about the application process.

Search for Jobs and Internships:

  • New Users: Register with Career Directions using your Montclair State University email address and password.
  • Existing Users: Log into Career Directions using your username and password.

Once You’ve Registered for Career Directions:

  • Update your personal information, skills, and additional information by selecting “My Profile” under “My Account”.  Be sure to SAVE your updates!
  • Upload your documents (Resume, Cover Letter, etc.).  Remember to regularly update these documents as your qualifications and experiences change.
  • Filter down to on-campus positions under the “Job Search” drop-down menu.  All available positions will be listed as Student Assistant or Federal Work Study under the “Position Type” field.  To view a job posting, click on the job title.
  • Once you have found a position you are interested in, follow the application submission requirements outlined in the job posting.  If no application is provided, submit the Federal Work Study application or Student Assistant application.

Best Time To Apply:

  • Mid-August and January are typically when employers begin accepting applications and hiring students.

Other Helpful Hints:

  • Attend Career Fairs, workshops, and employer recruitment events offered by the Center for Career Services!  View upcoming events.
  • Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and HawkSync for part-time job postings, event announcements and more!