Navigating Employment Opportunities at Smith College
Smith College offers a variety of employment opportunities for its students, both on and off campus, designed to support their educational journey and provide valuable work experience. The college is dedicated to promoting learning, teaching, scholarship, discovery, creativity and critical thought. In addition, the college is committed to creating an inclusive, equitable, and accessible educational community founded on the free and open exchange of ideas.
Code of Conduct and Employment Standards
Each student is expected to adhere to a code of conduct that governs the employment of all Smith students who are employed in both on-campus and off-campus jobs. This code ensures fair treatment and ethical conduct in all employment-related activities.
Compensation and Pay Rates
Smith College student employees earn $15.00/hour for on-campus work. Off-campus positions start at $15.50/hour. Pay rates can vary by position and may pay up to $16.50/hour depending on experience and certification. Rates are reviewed annually. This annual review ensures that student wages remain competitive and reflect the current economic conditions.
Work Hour Limitations
To prioritize academic commitments, Smith College has established limits on the number of hours students can work.
Academic Year
Students may not work more than ten hours per week during the academic year, but may hold more than one on-campus position to meet this allowance. This restriction allows students to focus on their studies while still gaining valuable work experience.
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Academic Year Breaks
Students may work up to 35 hours per week during breaks, but they should review the impact on their work-study award, as the time of year may affect their award differently. Students should carefully consider how increased work hours during breaks may affect their financial aid packages.
Summer Employment
Current students continuing enrollment in the fall are eligible for summer student employment. Summer employment begins the day after exams end in May, and ends the day before classes start in September. This provides an opportunity for students to earn money and gain experience during the summer months.
Union Representation
The college recognizes the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), Local 1459, as the exclusive bargaining representative for undergraduate students employed by the Office of Residence Life as House Community Advisors, House Coordinators, and Apartment Managers. This ensures that these student employees have a voice in their working conditions and can collectively bargain for their rights. Residence Life positions are for returning students only; first-year students are not eligible.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Smith College is dedicated to promoting learning, teaching, scholarship, discovery, creativity and critical thought. In addition, the college is committed to creating an inclusive, equitable, and accessible educational community founded on the free and open exchange of ideas. In service of our mission, we are called to reflect on our past and present to build a more just and inclusive future.
The total undergraduate student enrollment in fall 2024 was 2549 of which 33% identify as domestic students of color, 14% are international, 17% are first-generation, and 60% receive need-based aid.
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