Gradlife

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When you’re student, every penny counts. You try to spend wisely, save and maybe invest… You know, things we’re suppose to know how to do by now. If you’ve got a little left over, you can indulge yourself with a night out or a little special sumthin’ sumthin’.

Or, in my case, worry about how much computer repairs are going to cost.

Last week, almost immediately after my last class of the day, my computer pulled a code red. Many out-sourced support techs have heard my story: my computer does this restart/repair loop thingy that may or may not be a result of a hard drive or motherboard issue. Even the guys at the Microsoft store (yes, they exist) are stumped. I was faced with two options: hope that my computer’s manufacturer will be kind and find it in their hearts to replace or repair my (very new) machine, or buy a new one. All during the first week of classes too. Joy.

Thankfully, I saved enough over the summer to cover whatever costs I might have to face. But what if I didn’t? That would mean that now is a great time to get a job. And even if there isn’t some impending major expenditure coming your way, it’s always great to earn a little extra on the side, right?

There are a few ways you can go about that at U of T:

1. Do a work-study

Some of my best U of T experiences happened while I was working as a work-study on campus. It was during my time working with the Office of Student Life that I finally figured out what I wanted to do, and how I was going to do it.

Starting last year, grad students were able to apply for work-study positions around campus. Work-studies are exactly what they sound like – they are part time jobs that let you work as you study. The focus is on the experience. You’re suppose to learn something on the job. Depending on employer, the hours are flexible and short, meaning that it will not get in the way of your own studies and research. Win-win.

Work-study positions must be filled before September 30. Some offices have different deadlines. If you’re interested in a work-study position, visit uoft.me/workstudy ASAP!

2. Visit the Career Centre

This will probably be your go-to place for job searches. Employers from all over the GTA post their job listings on the Career Centre website. The scope of your job search will be much wider.

The Centre is also there to help you refine your skills. I’m sure many of you have heard that students sometimes lack “soft skills” and other job training. The Centre offers workshops and counseling to help you present yourself in the best possible way. U of T doctoral students can also make use of the Graduate Dossier Service to help you find an academic position in your field.

3. Check your department

My graduate unit has a special section on its website for job postings for their students. While I don’t know much about other departments, it doesn’t hurt to ask if your department has their own internal job listing. This helps you get more experience in your field of study/industry and might connect you with people you will be in contact with in the future.

Last week, one of my professors told us to make use of our time as students. Our “student card” doesn’t last forever – there are many things we can try as students that we will never be able to do as people already out in the workforce. Now is a great time to learn and experiment, as cliche as that sounds.

While you’re still here, make use of all of U of T’s resources, especially ones that can help build your career. Getting a job through our school’s channels might just take you where you need to go. If it doesn’t, you’ve learned something. And now you can afford a trip to (insert vacation destination here).

P.S. I hope that none of you will ever have to go through major computer troubles. Ever.