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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

From Early College to Summa Cum Laude: How E@W Helped Kettsy Cadena Succeed

From Early College to Summa Cum Laude: How E@W Helped Kettsy Cadena Succeed Graduation Spotlight Kettsy Cadena began her college journey at just 17 years old—and with grit, determination, and the support of Education at Work, she didn’t just adapt—she thrived. From earning a full-ride scholarship to graduating summa cum laude, Kettsy’s story is a powerful example of how flexible, supportive work opportunities can empower first-gen students to reach their goals. Meet Kettsy Cadena: A First-Gen Graduate with a Head Start and a Bright Future College can be both exciting and intimidating—especially when you’re only 17 years old. For Kettsy Cadena, starting her first semester at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) so young was a bold step. But thanks to her high school’s early college program, she had already completed her associate degree before setting foot on campus, giving her a strong academic foundation and the confidence to take on the challenge. With a full-ride scholarship in hand, Kettsy dove into university life—but after just one semester, she was ready for more. Determined to gain real-world work experience while staying on top of her academic responsibilities, she attended her university’s job fair and met the Education at Work (E@W) team. That moment would become a turning point. After landing a role as a Discover Cells Agent in June 2023, Kettsy quickly found that E@W’s model aligned perfectly with her goals. “Work-wise, I received high-quality training and continuous support from staff and supervisors,” she shared. “I was also blessed by the Tuition Assistance Program, which helped further lift the burden of tuition.” But it wasn’t just the financial support that made a difference. E@W’s flexible scheduling and remote work options allowed Kettsy to maintain her full-time course load and meet the GPA requirements of her scholarship—without sacrificing her mental well-being. “Having a schedule that adapts to my school schedule, having my workstation at home, and being able to take time off for exams, projects, and studying helped boost my academic success tremendously while gaining work experience at the same time.” Through her time with E@W, Kettsy gained critical technical and communication skills, deepened her understanding of customer service tools, and learned how to manage the demands of professional life while in school. Fast-forward to Spring 2025—Kettsy is now a proud summa cum laude graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a minor in Marketing. And she’s not done yet. She plans to continue working at E@W to further her professional development and explore new opportunities. “Overall, E@W has played a significant role in being my cornerstone for success while in college, and continues to give me stability, mentorship, and a place to grow.” 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

Graduation Spotlight: Gisell Solis—A Future Pediatric Occupational Therapist in the Making

Gisell Solis—A Future Pediatric Occupational Therapist in the Making Graduation Spotlight Meet Gisell Solis, an inspiring E@W senior who recently graduated from UTEP with a degree in Rehabilitation Sciences. While balancing her studies and working with our Discover Financial Services team, Gisell developed key professional skills, built lasting relationships, and gained the confidence to pursue her dreams. This fall, she’ll begin her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy with a goal of becoming a pediatric occupational therapist. Read on to learn how E@W helped Gisell grow personally and professionally on her journey to graduation. At Education at Work, we love celebrating our student employees’ milestones—and today, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Gisell Solis, a recent graduate from the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). On May 17th, 2025, Gisell earned her Bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Sciences with a concentration in Occupational Therapy—a major that reflects her compassion, resilience, and desire to make a lasting impact. Gisell first learned about Education at Work through a friend who spoke highly of the experience and flexibility the program offered. Intrigued by the opportunity to balance meaningful work with her academic priorities, she took a closer look and was inspired by how student-driven E@W’s model truly is. “It felt like the perfect fit,” she said. “The flexibility was important, but what really drew me in was knowing this was a program built with students in mind.” Gisell joined the Discover Financial Services team at E@W, where she quickly became known for her professionalism and positivity. Throughout her time with us, she developed critical career skills like communication, time management, and problem-solving, especially in high-pressure situations. But more than just building a strong skill set, Gisell found something even more valuable: confidence in herself and her ability to grow. “E@W taught me how to approach challenges head-on. I became more confident in my abilities and learned how to manage my time and responsibilities in a way that helped me succeed both at work and in school,” she reflected. Gisell often spoke about the positive and supportive culture at E@W. She loved getting to know her coworkers, collaborating on tasks, and celebrating team wins—whether big or small. The camaraderie and sense of community helped her stay motivated, even during demanding times in her academic journey. And the guidance she received from E@W mentors played a pivotal role in her growth. “My mentors always encouraged me to keep pushing forward and to look at every challenge as an opportunity to grow,” she said. “That support really made a difference.” This fall, Gisell is taking the next step toward her dream—pursuing her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy at UTEP. Her ultimate goal? To become a pediatric occupational therapist and help children build the skills they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives. We are incredibly proud of Gisell and everything she’s accomplished. Her dedication, heart, and leadership embody what Education at Work is all about. Congratulations, Gisell—we can’t wait to see what you achieve next!   Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube

Graduation Spotlight: Harold Trufant’s Journey from Student to Future Entrepreneur

Harold Trufant’s Journey from Student to Future Entrepreneur Graduation Spotlight Meet Harold Trufant, a standout E@W student who exemplifies the power of combining education with real-world experience. A recent graduate of the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Harold earned both his Bachelor’s in Marketing and Master’s in Finance while working as a Product Expert with Intuit through Education at Work. In this spotlight, Harold reflects on how E@W helped him build confidence, sharpen problem-solving skills, and gain career clarity—all within a supportive and flexible environment. His journey is one of growth, mentorship, and momentum toward a promising future. Education at Work (E@W) is proud to celebrate Harold Trufant, one of our exceptional graduating seniors. On May 18th, Harold crossed the stage at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, earning not just one, but two degrees—a Bachelor’s in Marketing and a Master of Science in Finance. His achievement marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and a passion for both learning and growth. Harold’s journey with E@W began earlier this year when he discovered the opportunity to work as a Product Expert with Intuit through our program. He was immediately drawn to the chance to gain hands-on experience while still in school—something that aligned perfectly with his drive to strengthen his problem-solving skills and better prepare for life after graduation. “I was eager to take on something that would push me out of my comfort zone,” Harold shared. “I wanted to grow, not just academically, but professionally.” During his time at E@W, Harold thrived in a role that required both adaptability and empathy. As a Product Expert, he helped customers navigate complex issues with patience and professionalism. One of the highlights of his experience was knowing he made a difference—especially when he could sense a customer “smiling over the phone” after resolving their concern. “Working for E@W helped me think on my feet and strengthened my communication skills,” he said. “These were things I could immediately apply in the classroom, whether it was presenting, participating in discussions, or collaborating on group projects.” Beyond skill-building, Harold credits his E@W mentors with helping him develop confidence and expand his professional network. The encouragement and support he received allowed him to take on new challenges, build strong relationships, and shape a clearer vision of his career path. He described E@W as the “ideal undergraduate job”—thanks to its flexibility, positive environment, and focus on student growth. Since completing his degrees, Harold has already received two full-time job offers—testament to the value of the experience he gained through E@W. Looking ahead, he’s excited to apply his marketing and finance background in the workforce and ultimately pursue his dream of becoming an entrepreneur. Harold’s story reflects the mission of Education at Work: to empower students with meaningful work experiences that prepare them for career success. Congratulations, Harold—we’re proud to be part of your journey! Learn More Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube

Top 5 Durable Skills to Master Before Graduating

Top 5 Durable Skills to Master Before Graduating Skills That Make You Stand Out—Now and in the Future Durable skills are essential, long-lasting abilities that remain valuable regardless of industry or role. Unlike technical skills, which can quickly become outdated, durable skills empower recent graduates to excel across various fields and adapt to the evolving demands of the workplace. At Education at Work (E@W), we understand the power of durable skills and offer hands-on experiences to help students strengthen them for success. Graduating from college marks an exciting new beginning, yet stepping into the workforce can feel challenging. To help ease this transition, mastering durable skills is essential. Unlike technical skills, these foundational abilities—like communication, problem-solving, and adaptability—remain valuable throughout one’s career, making them crucial for students to develop before graduation. Mastering these skills helps individuals stand out to employers, thrive in collaborative settings, and navigate changes in technology and organizational culture, setting them up for long-term success and career growth. 1. Communication Skills: Effective communication is the foundation of career success, ensuring ideas are conveyed respectfully and efficiently. In roles at E@W, students gain real-life communication experience by working directly with peers, clients, and leadership teams. Tips to Develop: Practice active listening, engage in public speaking, and seek opportunities to write clearly and concisely. These skills improve through repetition, and at E@W, regular feedback helps students refine their approach, whether speaking with team members or addressing client needs. Application in Roles: Clear communication is essential in customer service and project coordination roles. At E@W, students benefit from applying these skills in various professional settings, boosting confidence, and preparing for roles where strong communication can set them apart. 2. Problem-Solving Abilities: Problem-solving skills enable employees to tackle challenges confidently. At E@W, students face complex, real-world scenarios that challenge their ability to think critically and innovate. Tips to Develop: Approach problems by identifying root causes and brainstorming solutions. Practice through case studies or join campus organizations that test analytical thinking. Application in Roles: Problem-solving is beneficial in fields ranging from project management to analytics. Working with E@W clients, students learn to analyze issues, propose solutions, and refine their methods, gaining the ability to think independently. 3. Critical Thinking: Critical thinking helps evaluate information objectively, making it easier to make informed decisions. EAW emphasizes critical thinking, as students must determine diverse perspectives to support our clients and teams effectively. Tips to Develop: Read widely, practice questioning assumptions, and participate in debates or discussions, encouraging thoughtful analysis. Application in Roles: This skill is valuable in customer service, data analysis, and management roles. At E@W, students learn to view situations from multiple angles, enhancing their ability to analyze data, solve issues, and think strategically. 4. Adaptability: In a fast-changing job market, adaptability is essential for career resilience. E@W’s work environment encourages students to be flexible and open to learning new things, preparing them for roles where change is constant. Tips to Develop: Embrace growth opportunities, set flexible goals, and remain open to learning new technologies or processes. Application in Roles: Adaptability is especially useful in the tech, healthcare, and education industries. At E@W, students experience different projects and client needs, helping them grow comfortable with evolving tasks and systems. 5. Teamwork and Collaboration: Being an effective team player is a crucial skill that fosters innovation and productivity. At E@W, students work on collaborative projects that simulate real-world team dynamics, preparing them for careers that require strong interpersonal skills. Tips to Develop: Practice active listening, share constructive feedback, and work toward common goals. Team sports or group projects can be great for building these skills. Application in Roles: From entry-level to leadership positions, teamwork skills are essential. At EAW, students experience collaborative work, from tackling tasks with peers to working on cross-functional teams, enhancing their ability to contribute meaningfully in a professional setting. Conclusion: Lifelong Learning at Education at Work The ability to master these durable skills sets students on a path toward a successful and fulfilling career. At Education at Work, our unique environment nurtures these skills, providing students real-world challenges, client-facing responsibilities, and team-based projects. By joining E@W, students gain more than just work experience—they build a skill set that supports their long-term success. Ready to develop these skills and kickstart your career? Check out our current positions and join a team that invests in your future! Learn More Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube

Growing Skills, Confidence, and Connections at E@W Student Spotlight: David Wu

Growing Skills, Confidence, and Connections at E@W Student Spotlight: David Wu  At just 19 years old, ASU student David Wu is already building a strong foundation for his future—thanks to his role with Intuit through Education at Work. In this spotlight, David shares how he’s gaining real-world experience, growing his confidence, and developing skills to support his long-term success. Meet David Wu, a 19-year-old Arizona State University student balancing academic success with professional growth. As a Product Expert with Intuit through Education at Work (E@W), David has found more than just a part-time job—he’s gaining invaluable experience shaping his future. Building Professional Skills “Working as a Product Expert has strengthened my communication skills,” David shares. “Since I’m constantly interacting with customers, I’ve learned how to communicate clearly, listen actively, and adapt to different situations—all skills that will be valuable in any career. This role has also taught me the importance of accountability: showing up on time, staying prepared, giving my best effort, and knowing when to ask for help. I’ve developed these habits at E@W and know they’ll benefit me long after I leave.” Why E@W is the Smart Choice for Students For students looking for meaningful part-time work, David encourages them to consider E@W:“If you’re a student looking for part-time work, E@W is worth considering. Not only do you earn a paycheck, but you also get tuition assistance—which helps with college expenses. Beyond that, you gain real-world professional experience and the chance to develop skills to set you up for future success. It’s more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to grow while still focusing on your education.” Working with Industry Leaders One of the standout aspects of David’s experience has been the opportunity to work with a major company like Intuit while still in school.“One of the biggest benefits of working for a large company like Intuit is building connections with experienced professionals. You can network with people who can become mentors, offer guidance, and potentially open doors for you after graduation. On top of that, you’re gaining real-world experience—applying what you’ve learned in class to actual professional situations. It also pushes you to step outside your comfort zone, which has helped me build confidence and tackle new challenges head-on.” David’s Final Thoughts David’s journey at E@W shows just how impactful the experience can be. Not only is he earning an income and receiving tuition support, but he’s also developing the professional skills, confidence, and connections to serve him well beyond graduation. If you’re a college student looking for a job that offers more than a paycheck, E@W provides the perfect blend of financial support, flexible scheduling, and career development—all while working alongside industry leaders who want to see you succeed. View our open student positions and apply now! 🌟 Learn More 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