Work-Study is popular among students for many reasons. Here are just a few of the advantages to having a Work-Study job:

• The benefit of working in an environment suited to the student’s skills, preferences and possible career goals.
• A work schedule arranged around the student’s class schedule by the student and employer. The student will not be asked to work during class times, and employers are flexible in allowing time off for studying for exams.
• Work-Study wages not counted towards next year's student contribution for financial aid. Wages from a non-Work-Study job will be counted towards next year's student contribution for financial aid and may reduce eligibility for need-based financial aid.
• Professional experience and contacts developed. These can be valuable when beginning a career or applying to graduate school.

First-time students, and their parents, may feel it will be too difficult to manage classes, study time, social life and a job while adjusting to life at UT. This is a valid concern, but the majority of incoming students find that staying busy is a great time management tool! Studies have consistently shown that students who work no more than 20 hours per week do better academically than students who do not work. This seems to be because additional time demands force students to manage their time more efficiently, creating a higher commitment to finding time to study.