Part-time work, including becoming a Student Ambassador

Part-time work can be beneficial to students in so many ways; whether that’s to support living costs while at university, or to learn new skills. It’s important that part-time work fits around a students lifestyle and studies! Continue reading for more information on part-time work, including becoming a Student Ambassador!

Student Ambassadors at an Open Day.

Benefits of part-time work

Part-time work has a number of benefits including:

  • Additional money
  • Helps students learn how to manage their finances
  • Meet new people and make new friends
  • Develop new skills
  • Transferable skills
  • Gain more independence
  • Develop interpersonal skills
  • Gain work experience
  • Develop time management skills

Examples of part-time work at university

University based

  • Student Ambassador (see further information below)
  • University cafes/bars/restaurants/shops
  • Students Union
  • Surrey Sports Park or other sports facilities

Non-university based (part-time jobs in the local area)

  • Cafes
  • Bars
  • Restaurants
  • General shops
  • Supermarkets

For part-time jobs in the local area, look out for job advertisements online and in the windows of the establishment.

Lakeside Coffee Shop on Stag Hill Campus.

Student Ambassadors at the University of Surrey

What do Student Ambassadors do?

Student Ambassadors are undergraduate or postgraduate students who have the opportunity to represent the University of Surrey in a variety of events. Student Ambassadors can work for different departments including:

  • UK/EU Student Recruitment
  • Corporate Marketing and Communications
  • International Student Recruitment
  • Widening Participation & Outreach

Examples of work:

  • Delivering campus tours to prospective students
  • Supporting Open Days and Applicant Days
  • Writing blogs… like this one!
  • Online and in-person mentoring
  • School visits, delivering a range of different activities
  • Summer schools
  • Sustained engagement programmes
  • Delivering student life presentations
  • Higher education fairs
  • Faculty specific events
  • Supporting the clearing phone lines
  • Creating content for University of Surrey social media
  • Taster days and master classes
Student Ambassadors at a Careers Fair

Is Student Ambassador work flexible?

Student Ambassadors sign up to job adverts when they are available. This means that shifts can easily fit in around studies and other commitments.

How to apply to become a Student Ambassador?

At the University of Surrey, applications to become a Student Ambassador are completed online, which is typically followed by an interview.

Click here to read more about becoming a Student Ambassador at the University of Surrey.

A few things to consider

  • It’s all about balance. It’s important that part-time work can fit around students other commitments and studies.
  • Is there a number of contracted hours you are required to work each week?
  • Do you need to travel to work? Will this cost you additional money?
  • Be aware of when your assignment deadlines and exams are.
  • Make sure to take time for you!
  • Will the job role help develop any existing skills or create any new ones?
  • Is it in the right job for you? Does it interest you?

General tips for part-time job applications

  • Proof read any written applications… check for any spelling or grammar mistakes.
  • Read the job description, and read it again.
  • Think about any questions you would like to ask the employer.
  • Check if you need to take any required documentation with you to an in person interview.
  • Above all, just be yourself!
University of Surrey Student Ambassadors during an educational week for Year 8 students.

This blog has gone through different part-time jobs that university students could pursue! While you’re here, click here to read more blogs written by current students at the University of Surrey.

Wishing you all the very best of luck for any future part-time job applications!