I think my kids were at a decided advantage when seeking post-college employment because of the significant work experience they had in college. I know many college grads who got jobs not based on what they majored in – but as an outgrowth of what jobs they had in college. So I really think that 4-years spent not working in school is a squandered opportunity – at least for kids who expect to enter the employment market post college. As soon as they have that newly minted degree in hand, they will find that employers are interested in candidates with work experience related to the job.
It doesn’t have to be work-study or drudge work – or something the kid hates. A kid who doesn’t need to work can be choosy about what campus (or off-campus) jobs to apply for. My kids generally had jobs in college that they enjoyed, at least as much as anyone can “enjoy” their job.