College students encounter all sorts of problems throughout their college experience: maintaining a decent grade point average, confronting their roommates after they ate all the food, or trying to figure out why an instructor wants them to be in class but only holds class sessions for 10 minutes.  In the midst of all of this is also the dilemma of trying to find a steady flow of income while pursuing academic goals.

Trying to find a job which is flexible around a course schedule can be rather challenging for a college student.  One resource that may not be known to the student population is work study.  Work study is a federal financial aid program which provides part-time jobs for college students.  The program helps students earn money to help pay educational expenses.

Vicki Curry, director of financial aid at the Iola campus, strongly suggests that students ask about job openings as soon as possible and be vigilant when looking for jobs.  The office has lists of supervisors and job openings on campus.  Not everyone who applies for work study is guaranteed a job.

“Students are paid every other week and are paid minimum wage,” says Curry. Students can only work up to 10 hours a wee,k and supervisors strive to ensure work hours fit with class schedules. Jobs can range from tutoring to custodial work to food service.

If interested in this program, it is suggested that students inquire about the process at the Allen Community College financial aid office. Students just need to bring in their Social Security card and valid identification, and then complete needed applications to see if they qualify.