Navigating American University: A Student's Guide to On-Campus Employment Opportunities
American University (AU) offers a diverse range of on-campus employment opportunities for its students. These opportunities not only provide financial assistance but also allow students to gain valuable skills, build connections, and become more integrated into the AU community. This guide explores the various aspects of student employment at AU, from eligibility and application to the benefits and types of jobs available.
Onboarding as a New Hire
Upon arrival at American University, new student hires are assigned onboarding tasks that must be completed before their start date. These tasks are accessible through Workday, AU's online human resources platform. Completing these tasks promptly is crucial for a smooth transition into your new role.
A critical step in the onboarding process is completing the Federal Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility). Your job offer hinges on providing proof of your eligibility to work in the United States. This must be done within the first three days of your employment.
Another important step is meeting with the Office of Human Resources to complete Section 2 of the I-9 form. During this meeting, you will need to present the original, acceptable, and unexpired documents that you previously uploaded to Workday. Note that walk-ins are the only option for completing this step. You may also want to inquire about claiming exempt status on your federal tax form.
Understanding Pay and Workday
As a student worker at AU, you will be paid bi-weekly (every two weeks). Time entry is managed through Workday, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the platform and its timekeeping procedures.
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Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program
Eligible students who have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and demonstrated financial need may be awarded Federal Work-Study (FWS) as part of their financial aid package. The maximum FWS award for an academic year is $2000, although the actual amount may be less depending on the student's financial need.
The FWS program offers a variety of on-campus job opportunities designed to align with students' diverse interests and address the university's needs. These jobs provide a convenient way for students to earn money while pursuing their studies.
Diverse Employment Opportunities
American University offers a wide array of student employment opportunities across various departments and fields. These jobs not only provide income but also allow students to develop valuable skills and gain professional experience.
Some examples of student employment opportunities at AU include:
- Marketing and Administrative Support: These roles offer students the chance to develop communication, organizational, and administrative skills while supporting various university departments.
- Research: Students can assist faculty members with research projects, gaining valuable experience in data collection, analysis, and scholarly writing.
- Blogging: Students with strong writing skills can contribute to university blogs and websites, creating content and engaging with the AU community.
- RecFit: Working at RecFit provides opportunities to promote fitness and wellness within the AU community. These roles often involve ensuring a comfortable and safe environment for all users.
- DC Reads: This program allows students to tutor and support elementary, middle, and high school students in a school setting, preparing them for academic success. DC Reads members work with the School of Education and the Center for Community Engagement and Service to build their professional skills while making a positive impact on the local community.
My Experience at RecFit
My personal experience working at RecFit for two years has been an essential and enriching part of my time at AU. As a fourth-year undergraduate student in the School of Public Affairs (SPA), pursuing a BA in Justice & Law with a concentration in Terrorism & National Security, I have found working at RecFit to be incredibly rewarding.
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I take great pride in being a role model and inspiring my fellow staff members through hard work and dedication. I deeply care about RecFit and ensuring that its facilities are a comfortable and safe environment for the entire AU community. Working in this department has been one of my favorite aspects of being at AU, teaching me many valuable skills that I will continue to use throughout my career.
I have formed close, lifelong bonds with numerous people and developed an incredible support system that I will forever cherish. The experience of working at RecFit has reinforced my understanding that fitness brings people together from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Benefits of On-Campus Employment
Working on campus at American University offers numerous advantages for students, including:
- Convenience: On-campus jobs eliminate the need for commuting, saving time and transportation costs.
- Skill Development: Student employment provides opportunities to develop valuable skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management.
- Networking: On-campus jobs allow students to connect with faculty, staff, and fellow students, building professional networks and relationships.
- Financial Assistance: Student employment provides a source of income to help cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs.
- Community Engagement: Many on-campus jobs involve working with the AU community or the surrounding Washington, D.C. area, allowing students to make a positive impact and become more engaged citizens.
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