New Student Programming, Resources, & Common Questions
Research has shown that students who work on-campus are more successful in their transition to college, have higher GPAs, and have higher graduation and retention rates. Students and family members are often nervous about the student working their first semester in school, but having a student position can help the student find their place at GW, build a network of individuals to support the student, and help them navigate GW. Plus, the position helps the student build time-management skills.
On this page, you will find webinar opportunities, resources, and answers to common questions to help you be successful in your search for a student position. Also, be sure to check out our website for more information about what it means to be a student employee at GW!
Please contact our team at [email protected] or schedule a virtual meeting if you have further questions. We are here to support you!
WEBINARS
FWS PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Presented by GW Student Employment Team
- Webinar Recording: View on YouTube
- Slide Deck (PDF)
This webinar is an overview of the Federal Work Study Program for new recipients of the FWS financial aid offer. We will discuss what having an FWS offer means, how to find positions, and the requirements to work at GW through the FWS program. Students and their family members are welcome to join!
KEYS TO GETTING AN ON-CAMPUS JOB
Presented by the GW Career Learning & Exploration Team
- Webinar Recording: View on YouTube
- Slide Deck (PDF)
- Resume Template
- Resume Guide
- Cover Letter Guide
Are you interested in working on-campus or through the FWS program but are new to applying and interviewing for student employment positions at GW? Attend this helpful webinar to learn tips for writing your professional resume using your volunteer, leadership, and work experience, and learn effective communication techniques for virtual interviews and other online employer interactions.
On-Campus Employment - Professional Workshop
Presented by the GW Career Learning & Exploration and Student Employment Team
- Webinar Recording: View on YouTube
- Slide Deck (PDF)
The Center for Career Services will be hosting a workshop for incoming and returning students who are seeking more information on how to gain on-campus employment and more information regarding work culture at GWU. We will also review best practices for creating resumes and cover letters and preparing for the interview process. The presentation is specially tailored to give international students the tools they need to succeed.
APPLY TO POSITIONS
CREATE YOUR APPLICANT ACCOUNT
- Be sure to use your @gwu.edu email account
- Carefully complete your application
- Prepare and upload any required documents. Use a professional resume!
- Students can apply to non-FWS positions at any time.
FWS JOBS GO “LIVE” JULY 15, 2024
FWS job postings will begin to be available for all FWS recipients. More positions will continue to be posted after this date, so check back often.
APPLICATION RESOURCES & COMMON QUESTIONS
- Resume Guide & Cover Letter Guide: Most postings will require a resume and cover letter, use these resources to tell your story and why you would be a great fit for the position.
- Student User’s Guide: Use this guide to help you navigate through the Applicant Portal and the Employee Records systems.
- Where do I find my FWS Program Statement: Learn more in the How to Print Your FWS Program Student Statement document. This document is required for all FWS positions and is only available to FWS offer recipients.
- What should I do if my class schedule isn't finalized? This is a common question for first-year students. You can simply attach a professional letter explaining your registration status and that you will supply your availability as soon as possible. You can also send a personal note to the supervisor listed on the posting.
- I'm not sure what positions to apply to: Check out the Student Employment Position Standards & Descriptions document, it has all the different types of positions we have at GW. Match the skills, qualifications, and interests that you have with the position descriptions and required qualifications. You can use this to guide you through your search in the applicant portal.
- How many hours can international students work? International students can work up to 20 hours a week during the academic year and when classes are in session. Please consult with ISO regarding exceptions to this, such as holiday hours and during the summer period.
- What positions can international students apply to? International students can apply for non-FWS positions through the Student Talent Management Portal. Please consult with ISO regarding CPT/OPT opportunities and eligibility.
- When will I get Handshake access? You will receive more information in August regarding your Handshake access to begin booking an appointment with a Career Coach.
- When can I start applying for jobs? You can apply to positions in the Student Talent Management System today! Please make sure to have your application material reviewed by a career coach if you can make an appointment.
- Check out more common questions on our Federal Work Study FAQ's site.
More Resources for Applicants & Employees
TIPS & REMINDERS
- Apply early and often to positions during the summer. Do not wait until August to begin your search!
- Be prepared to provide a professional resume and cover letter.
- Bring your original documents to complete your I-9 form to campus! Federal regulations state that we must have original (not copies, pictures, or scans) documents in-person to complete section two of the I-9 form with the employee. The biggest delay we see in student hiring is students waiting for their documents to be mailed from home.
- Student Employment does not place students in FWS positions and cannot guarantee a position, but we give you the tools to be successful.
- You must work to earn the offer, and the earnings are not automatically applied directly toward your tuition bill.
- Any amount of a student's FWS offer that has not been earned by the end of the FWS program cannot be paid to the student per the Department of Education.