I am an incoming college student looking for a part-time (hopefully weekends only) job. Since I am majoring in the biology field–and interested in medicine–I am hoping to finding a possible “internship” for a student that has no prior experience in any medical occupation, however, that seems to be little to no possibility of finding one.
So, what are some of your guys advice on finding a “good” part time job as an incoming college freshman? Should I try harder to finding a job that supports my major and interest (with absolute 0 experience prior), or a regular job ( i.e fast food, retail, etc) that gives good pay? Should I wait until my soph, junior years to apply to the major-based jobs?
First, if you can afford it, I would wait a semester (or half a semester) so you can adjust to college life. If you can’t, you can’t.
Second, having a job in the industry of your interest would be great. Biology and Medicine is quite broad. Are you looking to become a doctor? If so, see if there is anything at a local hospital. Maybe you can assist a professor with research, Speak to your advisor. They should be able to provide some guidance.
Third, understand the actual work will be quite mundane (perhaps with the exception of research which might be fun). My son (finance major) got a job in his school’s Office of the Controller. They basically run the financial operations of the college. That sounds great. His job is basically that of a clerk, matching receipts with expenses, data entry, etc.He would say it’s pretty boring. I would say, what did you expect, to take over senior controller functions? It’s a job in his industry. Make contacts, learn as much as possible, etc. (and it provides extra expense money).
My daughter entered her first semester of college with a paid lab position. She ended up quitting because she was too overwhelmed her first semester and could not handle it. She found another paid lab position for the spring semester and did this type of work until recently, when her interests changed.
I agree that if you can put it off one semester, you should. If that’s not possible, then of course don’t put it off. Depending on your school I do think you can find a job somewhat related to your major… but keep in mind that it may very well be boring, mundane, not glamorous, isolating, etc. As noted above… take the opportunity to make contacts, know the professors, employers, etc. Good luck!