Part-Time Jobs at Aberystwyth University: Opportunities for Students

Balancing studies with part-time work is a common choice for many students at Aberystwyth University. Located in the scenic coastal town of Aberystwyth, Wales, the university offers a supportive environment for students seeking flexible employment. Part-time jobs not only help cover living expenses but also build valuable skills, enhance your CV, and provide networking opportunities. With the town's vibrant economy in tourism, retail, and education, there are plenty of options both on and off campus.

Benefits of Part-Time Work

• Financial Support: Earn money to fund tuition, accommodation, or social activities. The average hourly wage for student jobs in the UK is around £9-£12, depending on the role.
• Skill Development: Gain experience in customer service, teamwork, and time management, which are essential for future careers.
• Flexibility: Many roles offer shifts that fit around lectures and exams, especially during term time.
• University Perks: On-campus jobs often include discounts on food, gym access, or priority for university events.
• International Student Friendly: For those on Tier 4 visas, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays, as per UKVI regulations.

On-Campus Job Opportunities

Aberystwyth University actively promotes student employment through its Careers Service and internal job portals. These roles are ideal for staying close to campus and integrating work with your academic life.

Job Type	Description	Typical Hours	Hourly Rate (Approx.)
Library Assistant	Shelving books, helping with queries, and supporting study sessions in the Hugh Owen Library.	10-15 hours/week	£10.50
Student Union Bar Staff	Serving drinks and snacks at events in the on-campus union, great for social butterflies.	Evenings/weekends, 8-12 hours	£11.00 + tips
Administrative Support	Assisting departments with data entry, event setup, or reception duties.	Flexible, 5-10 hours	£10.00
Research Assistant	Helping academics with projects in fields like environmental science or history; suits STEM or humanities students.	Project-based, up to 20 hours	£11.50
Catering and Retail	Working in campus cafes or shops, preparing food or handling sales.	Shifts vary, 10-20 hours	£10.75

These positions are often advertised on the university's AU JobShop portal, accessible via your student login. The Careers Service runs workshops on CV writing and interview skills tailored for on-campus applications.

Off-Campus Job Opportunities

The town of Aberystwyth, with its population of around 18,000, thrives on tourism and local businesses. Summer months bring seasonal boosts in hospitality due to the promenade and beaches.

• Hospitality and Tourism: Roles in hotels, pubs, or the Cliff Railway. Examples include waiting tables at local eateries like Scholars or bartending at beachfront bars. Expect £9-£11 per hour, with tips adding extra.
• Retail and Shops: Positions at high street stores such as supermarkets (Tesco, Spar) or independent boutiques. Shelf-stocking or cashier work fits evening schedules.
• Childcare and Tutoring: Babysitting for local families or tutoring school pupils in subjects like maths or languages. Rates can reach £12-£15 per hour.
• Seasonal Work: During festivals or holidays, opportunities arise in event staffing or guiding tours of sites like the National Library of Wales.
• Delivery and Gig Economy: Flexible gigs with apps like Deliveroo or Uber Eats, perfect for cyclists in the hilly town.

To find off-campus jobs, check platforms like Indeed, StudentJob UK, or the local Aberystwyth Observer newspaper. The university's JobLink service connects students to town employers who value Aberystwyth's student workforce.

How to Get Started

1. Register with Services: Sign up for the university's Careers and Employability Service at www.aber.ac.uk/en/careers/. They offer free advice and job alerts.
2. Prepare Your Application: Tailor your CV to highlight relevant skills from modules or societies. Include your student status and availability.
3. Network: Attend career fairs in September and February, or join student societies like the Entrepreneurs' Society for leads.
4. Check Visa Rules: International students must comply with UKVI limits; seek advice from the International Education Centre.
5. Apply Early: Peak recruitment happens at the start of terms, so monitor listings from August onwards.

Tips for Balancing Work and Studies

Time management is key at Aberystwyth, where the close-knit community can make it easy to overcommit. Use tools like the university's planner app to schedule shifts around your timetable. Prioritize roles with flexible hours to avoid burnout. Many students find that working 10-15 hours per week enhances focus rather than hinders it. If needed, the Students' Union offers counseling for workload stress.

In summary, part-time jobs at Aberystwyth University provide a gateway to independence and growth. Whether stacking shelves in town or assisting in a lab, these opportunities enrich your university experience. Explore the options today and turn your time in Aberystwyth into a rewarding chapter.