Topic 1: What are the benefits of having a student job and how can we advertise it to students?
Main topics of concern and interest
Reflecting on the matter from the point of view of the student, several student- centric concerns and interests were raised. These include earnings, flexible working times, meeting new people and building confidence. However, an overall emphasis on the recognition of the various transferable skills which can be applied to the CV were of interest, as well as using these skills to help the student with issues regarding coursework. The suggestions regarding promotion were predominately focused on a wider campaign of visual advertising around campus, promoting individual case studies, ambassador roles and more job fairs.
Whilst the overall discussion confirmed that the need for promotional material on campus is wanted and desired by many students, many of the suggestions given during this session already exist in some capacity. For example, it was highlighted that a second part-time jobs fair in the spring would be of use, although this is already in place. This did however highlight the importance of potentially renaming the fair – Summer Jobs Fair – which might suggest summer contracts only.
Main discussion
The group began with outlining the obvious benefits to having student jobs. These included but were not limited to factors such as money, building confidence, flexible working hours and an opportunity of working on or around campus, (the latter therefore having an easy commute). From further discussion there seemed to be two types of desired jobs – one of which is working on campus and the second making links with relevant employers in the industry.
It was unsurprising that working on campus was a popular option because of its convenience and an ongoing familiar environment. The group was aware that there are student jobs in various roles/departments but it was noted that they are not always easily identified. Posters of case studies on social media and around the campus would raise the awareness and popularity. In general, case studies seem to have been the most obvious way of promotion as students appreciate encouragement from their peers. There was also a suggestion that student workers could wear a ‘Student Worker’ badge to show that others can apply for this role too.