A New Chapter: Education at Work Joins American Student Assistance
We are thrilled to announce that we are now part of the American Student Assistance (ASA) family, a non-profit leader in career exploration and career readiness.
Why the Off-Season Is the Best Time to Get Hired: Inside E@W’s Summer Recruitment Cycle
Why the Off-Season Is the Best Time to Get Hired Inside Education at Work’s Summer Recruitment Cycle While most students wait until fall to start job hunting, the smartest ones get ahead during the summer. At Education at Work, our off-season recruitment cycle helps students secure meaningful, flexible roles before classes are even in session. When it comes to landing a meaningful, flexible job during college, most students don’t think about applying in the middle of summer. But here’s the truth: the off-season is the best time to get hired. At Education at Work (E@W), we’re already thinking ahead to the fall semester and upcoming tax season, so summer is when we actively build our talent pipeline. That means students who apply now are first in line for some of the most in-demand, career-building roles available. Plan Now, Win Later: Why Summer Recruiting Gives You the Edge Unlike last-minute hiring surges that happen during the first few weeks of a new semester, E@W’s summer recruitment cycle allows students to: Apply early and avoid the rush Secure roles in advance before classes begin Complete onboarding and training at their own pace Step into the semester with confidence, knowing they already have a flexible, tuition-supported job in place Whether it’s a role supporting customers at Fidelity, DFS, or Intuit or gaining hands-on tech and service experience, these positions don’t just fill—they fill fast. And students who start early stand out. “Some of our most successful E@W students started with us during the summer. They applied early, got one-on-one support, and were fully trained before the fall rush. By the time the busy season hit, they were already leading the way. Summer is more than a great time to apply—it’s your chance to get ahead and grow with E@W from the start.” – Nalleli Aguilera, Recruitment Supervisor A Head Start on Hiring: Summer Tax Academy at E@W At the heart of our summer programming is E@W’s Summer Tax Academy, a specialized training series designed to help students gain the qualifications needed to support Intuit customers during the upcoming tax season. Through this program, students gain hands-on exposure to the tax industry while developing critical problem-solving, communication, and technical skills that employers value. And it’s not just about knowledge—it’s about opportunity. Students who complete the Tax Academy are well-positioned to work for E@W as a tax specialist for Intuit during the academic year. These roles are more than jobs—they are career pathways with purpose, and they come with flexible hours and tuition assistance to support students both financially and professionally. “E@W’s tremendous tax academy pass and success rate is rooted in more than delivering training; it’s about building a workforce of students that truly represents Intuit’s brand. Through close collaboration and aligned goals, we’ve transformed training into a strategic advantage. Together with Intuit, we’ve created a learning experience that not only prepares students to perform but empowers them to exceed expectations.” – Demetria Ingram, VP, Job Delivery Training & Quality Inside E@W’s Summer Recruitment Cycle Our summer recruitment is intentional and strategic. We know students’ schedules vary, so we keep the process efficient and student-centered. Here’s what it typically includes: Open Roles Posted – We identify and post part-time, remote-eligible, and skill-building roles for the upcoming semester or tax season. Applications Reviewed Weekly – Our team evaluates applications on a rolling basis to give early applicants a leg up. Interviews & Offers – Qualified students are interviewed virtually, with many receiving offers well before school resumes. Optional Summer Training – For programs like our Summer Tax Academy, accepted students can begin building skills even before the job begins. “Summer is actually one of the best times to get hired at E@W. Things are a little quieter, so we can really focus on each applicant, give them the support they need, and get them fully trained before the busy season starts. If you’re looking to stand out and get ahead, this is the perfect time to join us.” – E@W Recruiter For Campus Partners: Now Is the Time to Promote Career advisors, academic coaches, and university partners, summer is a prime time to encourage your students to act. When students wait until the fall semester to look for jobs, opportunities are often limited. By contrast, E@W’s summer recruitment cycle: Helps students prepare for the school year financially Supports academic success with pre-approved, flexible work schedules Aligns with career readiness and real-world learning goals Reduces stress during already-busy back-to-school transitions Whether you’re running summer orientation, advising sessions, or bridge programs, promoting E@W roles now can set students up for success in the year ahead. “At ASU Career Services, we understand the value of early, hands-on experience in shaping students’ career trajectories. Summer hiring opportunities through Education at Work provide our students with more than just part-time jobs; they offer a direct pathway to develop marketable skills, earn a steady paycheck, and gain professional exposure that complements their academic goals. It’s the kind of partnership that supports our mission to empower students for career success well beyond graduation.” – Blake Burford, ASU Career Services E@W Roles Offer More Than Just a Paycheck All E@W roles include:✅ Flexible part-time hours built around your class schedule✅ Real-world experience with major companies like Intuit✅ Competitive wages and tuition assistance✅ Professional mentoring and durable skill development✅ A supportive, student-first culture that grows with you Don’t Wait for the Semester to Start, Apply Now! It’s easy to put off job hunting until the first week of classes, but by then, many of the best opportunities are gone. Apply now to secure a role that helps you build your career, support your tuition, and start your semester strong. Students: Summer Tax Academy Current Job Openings Getting ahead starts with thinking ahead. E@W’s summer recruitment cycle gives students a smart, strategic advantage, not just for the semester, but for their future. Don’t sleep on summer, it could be your strongest season yet. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Summer Isn’t Just for Vacations: How Work-Based Learning Can Jumpstart Your Fall Semester
Summer Isn’t Just for Vacations How Work-Based Learning Can Jumpstart Your Fall Semester Summer break might feel like a pause—but it’s actually the perfect time to gain a head start. At Education at Work (E@W), we’re helping students turn the off-season into an opportunity to build skills and prepare for a meaningful role during the academic year. While college campuses may be quieter during the summer months, at Education at Work (E@W), this is one of the most powerful times to help students prepare for what’s next. Summer isn’t just for taking a break—it’s a unique window of opportunity for students to gain real-world experience, build durable skills, and jumpstart their success in the upcoming school year. Whether students are focused on reducing tuition costs, strengthening their résumés, or exploring career paths in tech, finance, or customer service, summer is a smart time to start investing in the future. Summer Tax Academy: A Launchpad for Career Readiness At the heart of our summer programming is E@W’s Summer Tax Academy, a specialized training series designed to help students gain the qualifications needed to support Intuit customers during the upcoming tax season. Through this program, students gain hands-on exposure to the tax industry while developing critical problem-solving, communication, and technical skills that employers value. And it’s not just about knowledge—it’s about opportunity. Students who complete the Tax Academy are well-positioned to work for E@W as a Tax Specialist for Intuit during the academic year. These roles are more than jobs—they are career pathways with purpose, and they come with flexible hours and tuition assistance to support students both financially and professionally. “Our Summer Tax Academy lets students prepare for the upcoming school year. The Tax Specialist role we offer at E@W requires specific technical training, some of which can be completed ahead of time. Students who can complete that training ahead of the school year have an advantage. “ – Sue Kiernan, VP, Partner Operations. Why Work-Based Learning During Summer Pays Off Students who engage in part-time roles or training programs during the summer don’t just earn a paycheck—they gain a competitive edge. At E@W, we’ve seen how early exposure to workplace environments can: Strengthen communication, professionalism, and technical skills Reduce financial stress through earned wages and tuition support Improve confidence and workplace readiness Help students clarify their career direction through real-world experience Summer is also an ideal time to learn at your own pace, build relationships with mentors, and explore career fields in a low-pressure environment. “Joining the Summer Tax Academy gave me a head start. I feel more confident going into the school year and now have experience I can actually use.” – E@W student participant. It’s Not Too Late to Get Ahead If you’re a college student looking to boost your résumé and build long-term career momentum, now is the time to act. Education at Work is actively hiring for upcoming roles and recruiting students for our next Tax Academy cohort. These opportunities are designed with students in mind, offering flexibility, purpose, and real impact. And if you’re a university advisor or employer partner, E@W can help you support students even during the off-season. Share our job opportunities, promote our programs during summer orientation, and join us in creating more pathways to success. Make This Summer Count Summer doesn’t have to be a pause—it can be a powerful beginning. Whether you’re building your skills, earning a paycheck, or preparing for a meaningful role during the academic year, Education at Work is here to support your journey. Learn more about E@W’s Summer Tax Academy, or apply now for upcoming positions and see how E@W is transforming summer into a season of success. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Reimagining the Future of Work: Jane Swift Joins Panel Discussion at JFF Horizons 2025
Reimagining the Future of Work Jane Swift Joins Panel Discussion at JFF Horizons 2025 At the 2025 JFF Horizons conference, Education at Work President Jane Swift joined a dynamic panel to discuss how Gen Z is reshaping the future of work. The conversation explored how skills-first learning, flexible pathways, and real-world experience are redefining the value of a college degree. Swift shared how Education at Work is helping lead this shift by connecting students to purpose-driven, paid work experiences that prepare them for long-term success. At this year’s Horizons, a national education and workforce summit organized by Jobs for the Future, Education at Work President and former Massachusetts Governor Jane Swift took the stage alongside leading voices in talent engagement and workforce development to explore the evolving value of a college degree in a skills-first world. Held in New Orleans, the panel discussion—“Gen Z Career Paths: Renewing the Degree’s Value in a Skills-Driven World”— was a powerful cross-sector dialogue on how to empower Gen Z with flexible, purpose-driven pathways to quality jobs. Moderated by The Wall Street Journal economics reporter Rachel Wolfe, the conversation featured Jane Swift, Valerie Capers Workman (Chief Talent Engagement Officer at Handshake), and Kevin Stump, Ed.D. (Vice President of Impact at Education Design Lab). The discussion centered around how Gen Z is reshaping traditional career trajectories and demanding new models of education and employment that emphasize skills over credentials, experience over theory, and purpose over prestige. Swift, drawing from her leadership at Education at Work, emphasized the urgent need to bridge the gap between higher education and workforce demands through real-world, paid work experiences that build both soft and technical skills. She spoke passionately about the transformative power of experiential learning and the role of institutions like E@W in creating scalable, inclusive talent pipelines for employers -particularly those looking to reach new, diverse, tech-savvy talent. Panelists also explored the rising popularity of career and technical education, the shifting influence of AI on the job market, and the importance of preparing students—especially young men—for meaningful, future-ready careers. When asked what single change she hopes to see in the next decade, Swift called for a radical rethinking of the student-employer relationship, where work-based learning becomes the norm rather than the exception. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Supporting Working College Students: Bridging the Gap Between Earning and Learning
Supporting Working College Students: Bridging the Gap Between Earning and Learning Creating Pathways, Not Pitfalls, for Working Students College students across the U.S. increasingly balance academics with jobs, often out of necessity rather than choice. This blog explores how Education at Work, alongside research from the AAUP, is helping transform college employment into an opportunity for growth rather than a barrier to success. For millions of students across the country, the college experience isn’t just about lectures, labs, or late-night study sessions—it also includes clocking into a job, balancing shifts, and navigating the dual responsibilities of work and school. At Education at Work, we see firsthand the determination of these students, many of whom juggle part-time or even full-time jobs while pursuing their degrees. But while their grit is inspiring, the reality behind working during college is more complex—and often, inequitable. A report, reviewing the research on students and work by Laura W. Perna in 2020, published by the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) titled “Recognizing the Reality of Working College Students,” sheds light on the challenges of working while enrolled. Importantly, it also provides recommendations on maximizing the benefits that specific types of employment offer as a career accelerator for college students. Getting this balance right is necessary to ensure that every student, as Perna writes, “especially students who must work for pay while enrolled—can fully engage in the academic experience, realize the potential benefits of working, and make timely progress to degree completion.” The Working Student Divide Not all students enter college with the same financial stability or family support level. For many, employment isn’t optional—it’s essential. Perna cites research that demonstrates these students often face longer paths to graduation, limited access to extracurricular or academic enrichment opportunities, and higher stress levels that can affect their mental health and academic performance.. Perna calls for a shift in approaching this issue, advocating for policies and practices that better serve working students. She argues that “more can and should be done to ensure that all students—especially students who must work for pay while enrolled—can fully engage in the academic experience, realize the potential benefits of working, and make timely progress to degree completion.” Turning Work into a Pathway, Not a Barrier This is the challenge we tackle daily at Education at Work. We see students who can integrate employment as part of their college journeys daily when we offer them flexible schedules and the support to prioritize academics. Perna outlines a series of recommendations to “Minimize Harm and Maximize Benefits” of work. She highlights the importance of partnerships between students, employers, and higher education institutions, another key component of our model at Education at Work. She highlights proximity to campus of employment opportunities as a key criterion, another foundational design element of our employment opportunities. Our higher education partners often provide space on campus or in college-owned buildings nearby. Reducing the friction for students to travel between work, class, and extracurricular activities is an often-overlooked area of stress for students. Programs like ours aim to demonstrate what’s possible when employers, educators, and communities recognize the needs of working students and build opportunities around them. We’ve seen students graduate on time with a job. It’s proof that when work aligns with learning, everyone wins. The Call to Action As the Perna report highlights, it’s time to reevaluate how we serve students who work. Whether through institutional policy changes, increased employer collaboration, or redesigned student services, there is a critical opportunity to reimagine work during college as a launchpad, not a hurdle. At Education at Work, we partner with forward-thinking universities and employers to create meaningful, flexible work opportunities that support student success. We’d love to talk if you’re ready to be part of the solution—and help shape the future of work-integrated learning. Contact us to explore how we can collaborate and make an impact together. Learn More Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Student Spotlight: Edward Osei | ASU Student • Intuit Product Expert • Future Finance Pro
ASU Student • Intuit Product Expert • Future Finance Pro Student Spotlight: Edward Osei ASU Student • Intuit Product Expert • Future Finance Pro Student Spotlight: Edward Osei ASU Student • Intuit Product Expert • Future Finance Pro Meet Edward Osei, a driven student at Arizona State University who’s gaining more than just a paycheck through his role as a product expert with Intuit, which was made possible by Education at Work. In his own words, Edward credits E@W with helping him build something you can’t always learn in a classroom: true confidence. “I like to talk to people, but I didn’t know how to do it professionally. Now, I’m comfortable on the phone, helping customers, and I see the results in my performance. That confidence came from this job.” One of the most significant benefits for Edward? Work-life balance that prioritizes being a student. “They want you to be a student first and a worker second. If you have an exam or project, they support you. It’s why ‘education’ is in the name.” And when it comes to tuition assistance, Edward doesn’t hold back: “I love the tuition assistance—no lie! It’s been incredibly helpful. I’m just trying to make it through school and pursue my dreams, and E@W and Intuit provide support tenfold.” Watch Edward’s full spotlight video above to hear his story in his own words. Ready to build transferrable skills, grow your confidence, and get school support? Explore our current student job openings and apply today! 🌟 Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Student Spotlight: Sydney Rice | ASU Freshman & Intuit Product Expert
Student Spotlight: Sydney Rice ASU Freshman & Intuit Product Expert Starting college is a big step—new classes, responsibilities, and finding a rhythm that balances it all. For Sydney Rice, a freshman at Arizona State University majoring in International Relations, the decision to take on a professional role alongside her studies might seem ambitious. However, for Sydney, working as an Intuit Product Expert through Education at Work has fit seamlessly into her college experience and provided her with skills and confidence that will stick with her well beyond her time at ASU. Gaining Real-World Skills Early On Sydney’s role at Intuit puts her on the front line of customer support, where no two days are precisely the same. Each customer brings a unique question or challenge, and it’s up to her to provide helpful solutions—sometimes on the fly. “This position has helped me sharpen my critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” Sydney shares. “Customers often call in with specific challenges, and I have to think quickly, stay calm under pressure, and find the right solution. Sometimes, that means relying on the resources available to me; sometimes, it’s about trusting my judgment. Either way, every conversation is a learning opportunity.” But beyond solving technical issues, Sydney says one of the biggest takeaways has been developing strong customer service skills—something she knows will benefit her long after this job. “Learning how to connect with customers, even when frustrated, and helping them feel supported has been huge for my growth.” Connecting Coursework with Career Goals As an International Relations major, Sydney’s coursework revolves around understanding people’s cultures and how communication plays a key role in diplomacy and leadership. She’s found that her experience at Intuit mirrors many of those same lessons. “Communication is everything in my field,” Sydney explains. “Every day in this role, I interact with people from all different backgrounds, personalities, and situations. It’s up to me to make sure they feel heard and supported, whether the conversation is easy or challenging. That experience aligns perfectly with what I’m learning in my classes.” She adds that her job has also taught her valuable lessons in patience, empathy, and adaptability—qualities she sees as essential to her future career. Flexible, Student-First Work Environment One of the reasons Sydney is eager to recommend Education at Work to fellow students is the flexibility and support built into the program. Unlike traditional student jobs, E@W understands that academics come first and balancing life as a college student requires adaptability. “I’d recommend working here to any friend looking for a job,” Sydney says. “It’s not just about earning a paycheck—although that’s a bonus. What I appreciate most is how flexible and student-focused it is. I can prioritize my classes, exams, and schoolwork and still pick up shifts that fit my schedule.” That flexibility allows Sydney to fully embrace the college experience without sacrificing valuable work experience. “You can still have a social life, hang out with friends, and enjoy all the things that make college fun while also gaining skills and experience that will help you after graduation.” Building a Foundation for the Future In addition to the hands-on skills and customer service experience, Sydney also benefits from Education at Work’s tuition assistance program, which helps lighten the financial burden of college. For her, it’s the full package—real-world experience, professional development, flexibility, and financial support—all designed to help students succeed. As Sydney continues her journey at ASU, she’s confident that the skills and knowledge she’s building will serve as a strong foundation for her future career. “This experience has been such an important part of my growth,” she reflects. “It’s setting me up for success—not just in college, but in life.” Looking for more than just a part-time job?Join a program that helps you grow, gain real-world experience, and graduate with a stand-out resume. View open student positions and apply now! 🌟 Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube
Diversity and Inclusion through Student Employment Programs
Diversity and Inclusion through Student Employment Programs Creating Pathways for Underrepresented Groups Programs like those offered by Education at Work (E@W) connect companies with diverse college talent and help create career pathways for underrepresented groups. These programs are crucial for fostering an inclusive workforce and how E@W can be a valuable partner in advancing DEI goals. In today’s workforce, achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential. DEI strengthens organizations by promoting innovation, driving productivity, and improving financial performance. One powerful way to encourage DEI is through a student employment program. Student employment programs help students transition smoothly from academic life into the workforce, giving them hands-on experience while still in school. These experiences do more than provide paychecks; they are essential for building confidence, durable skills, and social capital. For students from underrepresented backgrounds, these programs help them overcome financial and social barriers that might otherwise limit their access to specific career paths, and they can be the difference between entering the workforce with a high-quality first job and being left out. Evidence-Based Impact Employment programs like those offered by E@W demonstrate the impact of student employment on economic mobility and career readiness. Research from the Center for American Progress highlights that student employment programs increase financial stability and career preparedness, mainly supporting students from marginalized communities. These programs allow students to graduate with both experience and confidence, positioning them to enter industries where they have been historically underrepresented. The Role of Education at Work in Advancing DEI through Student Employment Education at Work is uniquely positioned to help bridge the gap between college and career, particularly for underrepresented students. E@W partners with universities and major employers to provide students with meaningful, flexible employment opportunities that align with their studies and career goals. E@W’s Approach to Student Development Through its structured support model, E@W provides real-world job experience alongside mentorship and professional development. This model benefits students who might otherwise be working part-time in unrelated fields, allowing them to gain industry-specific skills while earning an income. E@W emphasizes skill-building and networking, helping students build critical connections and confidence. This comprehensive approach ensures that students, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, are ready to enter competitive job markets. Impact on Students E@W’s impact can be seen in the stories of students who have gone through the program. Many have transitioned into full-time roles within their industries, equipped with the skills and professional networks they developed through E@W. Testimonials from students underscore the value of E@W in giving them a foundation they would not have had access to otherwise. For instance, a recent E@W alum shared that “the program helped me see my potential and gave me the confidence to apply for roles I wouldn’t have considered before.” Building a Pipeline of Diverse Talent For employers, investing in student employment programs provides a way to build a pipeline of diverse, capable talent. By working with Education at Work, companies meet their recruitment needs and are committed to inclusive hiring practices, starting with early-career employees. Education at Work offers customizable partnership models that enable organizations to align student employment with their specific DEI goals. These models provide organizations access to a pool of diverse, motivated, and prepared candidates, adding immediate value to their talent pipeline. Real-World Results Education at Work has a track record of positive outcomes for students and partners. From retention to graduation rates, E@W’s program results demonstrate that diverse students with access to career-building employment during college are more likely to persist in their studies and successfully transition to full-time employment. Student employment programs like those offered by E@W are essential for building a more inclusive workforce. They create pathways for underrepresented students, offer employers a way to meet DEI goals, and ultimately contribute to a fairer, more inclusive future. For employers looking to strengthen their DEI efforts, partnering with E@W provides a powerful opportunity to build a more diverse and equitable workforce. If your organization is interested in fostering a culture of inclusion from the ground up, contact us to explore how we can help meet your DEI goals through student employment. Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube