College employment and community

For many students on campus, finding a way to make some extra cash can be pretty frustrating especially for students who do not have a vehicle to get on and off of campus. While Handshake can be a useful tool to use to see where there might be an opening for work, the options can be slim and it may be hard to find something that works with your schedule and seems like something that you are suited to do. There are options available such as the cafeteria, library, maintenance department and other general facilities that each student regardless of background or interest can do without much of a learning curve, but there are also a lot of other jobs advertised that are not necessarily for everyone and might be intimidating to apply for for students who do not have much experience in a certain field. 

So what can students do when they cannot seem to find a job on campus that works for their schedule and their skills? For students with a vehicle, there are multiple options in Sioux Center at places like Kwik Star, Walmart, Pizza Hut and Goodwill that are good part-time jobs that pay an average starting wage of about $16 an hour. There are also jobs in outer Orange City that are out of what would be considered walking distance especially in the colder months. Soon, there will be quite a few openings available at the currently under construction Orange City Kwik Star. Other jobs on the East end of Orange City include varying positions at Dollar General and Jimmy John’s.

For students who do not have a vehicle on campus, there are still options for part time employment in Orange City that are close to campus. Some of these jobs are just a six minute walk away. On 8th street, there are many businesses that are known to be flexible with the schedules of college students. Many NW students have found jobs at beloved food chains of Orange City such as Subway and Scooter’s Coffee Co. Both of these options are great ways for students to work and still be able to go to classes and do homework without scheduling much travel time. 

A little further from campus in downtown Orange City, there are many businesses that have hired many college students in the past. These places range from coffee shops to craft stores. Currently there are students working at Orange City’s Kweken Co. and Brad’s Bistro. These two shops are a great place to not only gain some extra cash, but also to grow into the community of Orange City and work in an environment that feels more like home.  Other unique Orange City stores that NW students have found employment at include Orange City’s Craft Central and Aria Clothing Co. Similar to Kweken and Brad’s, these stores offer a hometown feel and a great work community where students can grow in their connections to those outside of campus. 

At the end of the day, finding a good part time job that works with your schedule can be challenging, but it is good to keep your mind open and look for options off and on campus. No matter where you may find yourself when it comes to a part time job during college, it is a good idea to work somewhere that not only gets you the financial boost you may need, but also helps you grow in love and service for your community and those around you.