Getting a job on campus can be more than just a way to earn money — it can also help teens grow personally and professionally. Research suggests that working a moderate number of hours can support academic success and skill development. Here are some benefits of on-campus jobs:

Builds valuable life and workplace skills: Campus jobs help students practice time management, communication, teamwork, and responsibility — skills that are useful in both school and future careers.

Linked with positive academic outcomes: Research indicates that students working fewer than 20 hours (about 10–15 hours per week seems to be the sweet spot!) do just as well or even slightly better academically than non-working students, likely because they learn to manage time and stay organized.

Enhances satisfaction and engagement with college: Students who balance a modest work schedule with studies tend to report higher satisfaction and engagement with their academic experience.

Looks good on a resume: Employers value work experience, especially when students can show they balanced it alongside coursework — it signals initiative and responsibility.

Bonus--added peace of mind for parents: Campus jobs mean students are regularly interacting additional adults who expect them to show up, communicate, and follow through. For many parents, it’s reassuring to know that other responsible adults are periodically keeping an eye on their student!

Important note on balance: Studies also make clear that working too many hours (more than 20 per week) can make it harder to keep up with coursework and may slow progress toward graduation.