“The secret of a successful man is he always sees himself as a student who learns from other people.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson 

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The “broke college student” stereotype is part of our culture. Between paying for books and classes, paying for your dorm, and spending all your time studying, as a college student, you may often find yourself strapped for cash. But, just because you’re a college student doesn’t mean you have to be broke.

When deciding to go to a coding Bootcamp, there are several things that you should keep in mind.  Many application processes to coding Bootcamps can be intensive to ensure you’re ready for the dedication that the Bootcamp requires. So, in order to be successful,  before you start applying for coding programs there are some skills you’ll need to develop. Here are the top 5 traits that will help you succeed and optimize your time at your coding Bootcamp.

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You finally did it. You spent countless hours studying, writing papers, and money on Red Bulls but it’s finally over. Your college graduation is looming just over the horizon. It’s time to finally jump into the real world. Now you’re overwhelmed. You know how to be a successful student, but how are you going to be successful in the professional world?

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Reading enables lifelong growth and encourages a commitment to personal development - common traits among history’s leaders, influencers, and change-makers. Whether or not you already have a reading list, these 10 books are must-reads. To grow professionally and make your mark on the world, it’s worth to start by changing yourself. Every one of the books on this list is meant to help you learn something and set you up for success.

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Selecting a college or university after high school isn’t as simple as picking out a new phone or deciding what you want for dinner. Choosing a college to apply to that is the perfect fit for you can be stressful.

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More and more students are considering taking a gap year. It can be a great chance to make some extra money, gain experience, and learn more about yourself before you make a big decision, like committing to college or a certain career path.

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In the middle of the spring semester of 2020, undergraduate students across the U.S. had to suddenly pack up their belongings and finish their courses away from campus. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced many colleges and students to move to virtual learning or distance learning, an adjustment for many who are accustomed to in-person classes.

The coronavirus pandemic has transformed many aspects of life, especially higher education. Recent polling from College Reaction, New York in April, showed that 77% of more than 800 college students surveyed said they felt distance learning through the internet is worse or much worse than in-person classes.

Here are some of the most common challenges students are currently facing with online learning, along with specific tips on how to address them.

Distractions Everywhere

Distractions are a reality of distance learning, a delivery or one thing like a pet running into the home office can be disruptive for everyone involved if you’re in the middle of a virtual classroom session. As a result of these distractions – and possibly having additional responsibilities – time management becomes more challenging. Having a time management system is perhaps the most difficult challenge for students to overcome because it depends entirely on self-motivation. Students need to be serious about their education, learn how to manage time, set their daily schedule, and study despite constant distractions.

Minnesota State University lists some remote learning online student skills requirements. In this example, the university specifically addresses the importance and unique challenges in self-motivating absent the traditional influence of nearby peers doing the same. This can be a considerable challenge for some.

The solution:

Try to think about building a schedule – figuring out when you’re going to do what you’re going to do and then sharing that with the other people in your house.

Also, try to identify a quiet time and place to complete your coursework, if possible – even if that time is late at night. If you get distracted by social media or browsing the internet, use tools to block out these while distance learning and other time-wasters when you need to focus on school. Also, creating a to-do list for the week or each day with what you need to get done can help you determine the best times to tackle each task.

Staying Motivated

Given that students may not be attending class at a set time on a physical campus, finding the motivation to get started on coursework can be difficult.

When you don’t see your home as a space of work, it’s a struggle to get in that mindset, but designating different places in your house that are specifically for schoolo can help you get your work done.

The solution:

In addition to creating a daily schedule and finding a productive workspace, it can also help to focus on the ultimate goal. It helps to keep your reason for pursuing your degree at the top of your mind; perhaps you want to provide a better life for your family or pursue your dream career. 

Write down your reasons for attending school, along with your short-term and long-term goals. Post them where you’ll see them, and cross off goals as you achieve them.

Staying in touch with classmates, in addition to reaching out to faculty or academic staff as needed, can also be motivating. The more involved you are with your distance education, the more it’s top of mind. Log in daily to see course updates and class discussions. Connect with students and teachers and share questions or perspectives.

Technical Issues

Unfortunately, technical issues are bound to happen in an online-only environment. This may sound obvious but technical issues, and internet connection only add to the online environment’s frustration and interrupt new distance learning sessions. Sometimes your computer will shut down, or there are moments when your wifi is spotty, and weak monitors can make it challenging to keep up with your virtual classmates and learning environment.

The solution:

The most important step is to stay in touch with professors and inform them about what’s happening. They should understand and be flexible about the situation, perhaps even recording class sessions on your computer through learning platforms as a backup.

There will be technical issues, and it’s important to realize you aren’t the only one with this problem. If your school has technical support services, they can be a valuable resource.

Some Students Being Left Behind

In the traditional classroom, teachers can monitor the students and adjust their pace to accommodate anyone who needs extra time. In an online learning environment, it’s more difficult to do so. Since it is harder to read body language virtually, learners may stay silent or “put on a brave face” and then leave the class feeling discouraged, frustrated, and having learned nothing.

The solution:

Set yourself up for success by asking for information on any relevant apps you may not understand or how to access the classes. Also, be sure you know how to raise concerns to your teacher, whether it be during the online course, through email, or a different form of communication.

Diminished Social Aspects

The final spot in our list of the challenges of online platforms goes to the loss of many social aspects with the online route. Within the layouts of most degree programs, there are certainly many opportunities given in social interaction with peers. This can be through virtual classroom activities or even “social lounges” set outside the digital classroom. All of this is great but still not the same as physical, in-person relations. Interacting in person creates more considerable bonds, a camaraderie founded on common work and goals, and many other supportive attributes for the student. This indeed is a challenge harder to face for some than others.

The adjustment can be challenging for many students in, say, a google classroom that is better suited for the face-to-face format, like those with science lab components.

The solution:

It can be easy to get frustrated due to the lack of human contact, not being able to raise concerns immediately, the absence of a teacher, only remote learning from online teaching, and an inability to discuss problems with classmates. Sometimes, the online world, no matter how enriching it may be, can become too small, and you need a physical space where you can resolve your queries and practice with real tools.

If this is the problem, one solution is to foster personal interaction within the online course as much as possible. For example, you can organize webinars, group work, or forums where students can discuss and resolve their queries.

These common issues are only a few that many students face during remote learning. The sudden switch to online classes and online learning has caused anxiety and raised questions among students about their academic futures. It’s easy to be concerned about your future education during this time, but it’s important to remember that you aren’t alone.

COVID-19 has changed the world permanently. Although college students have been dramatically affected by this crisis, learning to be adaptable is an essential part of life. f you’re looking to learn a new skill then check out our Students page!

No matter which college route you choose, it can be expensive. And paying for it has become one of the biggest economic problems in America today. At the average private college, the sticker price for tuition, room and board is $199,500 for the standard 4 year degree And $87,800 for a public 4-year institution (in-state rate).

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According to a study conducted by Georgetown University’s Center on Education, an estimated 70 percent of college students work while attending school. Of course, maintaining employment during the demanding college years is no easy feat. Finding a flexible job that pays well enough is important. Luckily, there are many jobs that offer night and weekend hours for part-time jobs for students.

Here’s a list of the 12 best jobs for college students.

1. Tutor Other Students

Average Rate: $24.11 per hour

Take a subject you excel in and help other students improve their grades by becoming a tutor. There are many tutoring opportunities in a college setting, and it’s a good choice for part-time work as you can often choose your own hours. If your university has an educational resource center, there may be a formal tutoring position you can apply for. Tutors often set their own schedules and focus on subjects they know the most about.

When it comes to working as a part-time teacher or tutor, the options are endless.  You can find work by posting ads on your school’s Facebook page and other social media. You might also apply for positions with tutoring websites like Wyzant, Chegg Tutors, TakeLessons, Maestro, StudySoup, and Skillshare.

2. Barista

Average Rate: $10.88 per hour

While you might drink coffee to pull an all-nighter, working as a barista will really teach you all you need to know about coffee.  You’ll probably also be treated to employee discounts that will save you a ton of money on your daily coffee fix. Plus, if you’re able to land a campus job at your college’s coffee shop, you’ll meet tons of new college students. In addition to normally being able to schedule your hours out around your class schedule, many baristas reap the benefits of extra income in the form of tips.

3. Host or Server at a Restaurant

 Average Rate: $11.06 per hour

This is the go-to job for those looking to earn fast cash and gain valuable experience in the food industry. Whether your aim is to own a restaurant, work as a chef, or simply pay your way through college, this is the job opportunity for go-getters.

You’ll be on your feet for most of the shift, but the extra income gained from tips will be a great benefit to your bank account.

Restaurant hosts and hostesses greet diners at the door, lead them to their tables, provide menus, share daily specials and answer questions. They are also responsible for managing table sections and waitlists and informing servers when a new table has arrived. Restaurants are usually the busiest at night and on weekends, so this job won’t often interfere with your class schedule. Your, potentially free or discounted, break food probably also tastes way better than whatever is going on in your school cafeteria.

4. Retail Sales Associate

Average Rate: $11.38 per hour

According to Business News Daily, the most commonly held jobs by American college students are sales associate positions. A retail sales associate stocks merchandise, helps maintain display areas, greets customers, answers customer questions, and assists them in finding products. They may also be responsible for taking inventory, managing cash registers, and recording sales.

Sales associates enjoy flexibility in terms of scheduling and shift coverage, which can come in handy during particularly stressful school weeks. Additionally, many seasonal sales associate jobs open up during peak holiday months, a plus for students who need to make extra money while on break.

5. Babysitter

Average Rate: $15.27 per hour

Babysitting jobs are popular with college students because they offer plenty of flexibility. Babysitters generally make money and there are lots of different hours you can work, depending on the age of the kids you babysit. Plus, there’s the opportunity to get some of your schoolwork done during downtime.

University employees, including professors and administrative staff, usually favor college students when choosing a babysitter; if you like working with kids, keep your eye out for babysitting positions near your college.

Check with your career office or student employment office or search online for babysitting jobs.

Websites like SitterCity and UrbanSitter make it easy to find nanny and babysitting opportunities near you. You can also try posting a message on NextDoor to offer your babysitting services to local families. Care.com is also perfect if you want to work in adult and senior care. The ability to control your work hours and the relatively high pay makes these jobs ideal for college students.

6. Pet Care

 Average Rate: $11.53 per hour

Sites like Rover and Dogvacay offer on-demand employment options that fit with even the most offbeat schedules. And, those who are willing and able to host doggy daycares and overnight pet sits can end up making twice the amount of money as a dog walker. Of course, your income could be even higher if you have experiences working with nontraditional pets, such as farm animals, reptiles, and horses.

If you’re interested in caring for cats, Holidog offers services for both dogs and cats. This job is well suited for people with limited, inconsistent schedules who need to earn a small amount of extra cash.

7. Gym Receptionist

 Average Rate: $12.40/hour

Gyms open their doors early and shut them late, with many even staying open 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. These hours make for a great scheduling opportunity for college students who might be in school for a traditional 9-5 day. To sweeten the deal, most gyms offer free or deep discounts to employees, which can save you money. . High-energy college students are great fits for these positions. If you hold a personal training certificate you could also apply to be a fitness instructor. These jobs are especially good for those who play collegiate sports or are majoring in corresponding fields, such as kinesiology, dance, or physical therapy. If you love fitness and can motivate people to exercise, this is the job for you. You won’t need much experience and will save money here as well. Most places offer their employees free classes – a great way to stay active in college!

8. Lifeguard

Average Rate: $11.39 per hour

If you’re willing to get trained and certified, lifeguarding can be very rewarding. Full-time students in search of a summer job option would benefit from looking into local lifeguarding positions. There are plenty of different employers who take on summer lifeguards, from beaches to hotels to community swim centers, and more. Lifeguarding also tends to be a fun work environment.

9. Translate

Average Rate: $18-29 hour

Interpreter/translator jobs are a great option for college students who are fully bilingual. Translators typically work exclusively with written text, with many companies and clients offering fully remote options. Interpreters are often required to work in person at a variety of different venues, including schools, courthouses, and even medical facilities. You can also work as a freelance translator through a platform like Gengo. This is another job that offers a flexible, part-time job.

10.Library Monitor

Average Rate: $12.23 per hour

Library jobs are one of the most convenient jobs to have as a student because of their relatively high pay and on-campus location. If you’re worried you won’t have enough time to devote to academics, this could be a great job for you. This position will give you plenty of customer service practice and the chance to interact with college students for most of your shift. Best of all, there is usually plenty of time to do your homework.

Responsibilities generally include the supervision of study spaces to ensure a quiet atmosphere. It’s a pretty easy job, but one with lots of downtime – which means you’ll have plenty of time to catch up on reading, do homework, or study for an exam.

11. Become a Resident Advisor

Average Rate: Varies

Resident advisors, or RAs, live in the dormitories alongside students and offer support to residents and the university in the form of security and rule enforcement. They also work in a variety of clerical roles that support the management of the living quarters, such as bookkeeping, answering phones, and giving tours.

This isn’t a paid position, but the chance to have free room & board during your college years will save you as much cash as you would make in a traditional part time job. You will get the chance to closely interact, mentor, and bond with hundreds of college students a year and give back to your university in a highly influential way.  Be aware though, in order to become an RA, you must complete a competitive application process and undergo extensive training.

12. Research Assistant

Average Rate: $15.27 per hour

Gain experience in your field of interest by working as a Research Assistant for one of your professors. Research assistants collect and analyze data and prepare materials for researchers. They may also help submit research to granting agencies and foundations, manage project correspondences, and perform administrative tasks for research project leaders. Since the research is usually conducted on campus, these positions are very conveniently located.

Most colleges dedicate a lot of their resources to research. Many departments – from biology to chemistry, physics to engineering, psychology to sociology – recruit paid research assistants. Not all research is in hard science. You may be able to find a job opening doing background research for English, history, psychology, or sociology.  Check with your school’s Psych department to see what research studies are looking for participants. While the positions usually require some background knowledge of the field, if you’re majoring in an area that involves research, a research assistant job makes an excellent addition to your resume.

You’ll likely include your college jobs on your resume when applying for opportunities after you graduate. If possible, seek out positions that allow you to build the skills and experience you’ll need in your career. For example, if you’re going to school for fashion merchandising, you may want to consider looking for a job in retail.

These jobs are all mostly in-person jobs that offer great flexibility for college students but if you’re looking to be 100% remote, check out this post!

Remember to consider your flexibility limits while looking for a new job. Your classes may be scheduled sporadically with some days starting and ending earlier than others. It’s important that your job doesn’t interfere with your studies and you are able to schedule out the extra time you need to study or complete homework. That’s why the best jobs for a college student are often low-stress roles that do not require you to commit to excessive hours or spend time checking email outside of work.

About Meratas

Meratas is the leading Income Share Agreement (ISA) software company, providing a full-service, turnkey, SaaS platform to design, originate, and manage ISAs. We help universities, bootcamps, trade schools, and membership programs increase enrollment and open access to their programs. All through the power of Income Share Agreements.

We also help those looking to get an education, up-skill, or re-skill, get into the career of their dreams. All at generally no upfront cost. We pair individuals looking for a fresh new career with the best educational programs on the Meratas platform to reach their professional goals. If you’re looking to break into your new career, check out our student page and we’ll help you find the career of your dreams.

Want more career advice, education news, and student success tips? Follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram!

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