Part-Time Job Opportunities at Austin College

Why Part-Time Jobs Matter for Indian Students Studying in the USA

As an Indian student embarking on your study abroad journey to Austin College in Sherman, Texas, managing finances is a key concern. The USA's higher cost of living, combined with tuition and living expenses, can be challenging. Fortunately, Austin College offers a supportive environment for international students on F-1 visas to engage in part-time work. These opportunities not only help offset costs but also provide invaluable cultural immersion, professional experience, and networking—essential for building a strong resume back in India or for future career prospects in the global job market.

Under U.S. immigration rules, F-1 visa holders like you can work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during the academic term and full-time during official breaks (like summer or winter). Off-campus work requires special authorization, such as Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT), which Austin College's International Student Services office can guide you through. For the next intake (Fall 2024 or Spring 2025), start preparing by attending orientation sessions where job resources are highlighted. With Austin College's small, close-knit community of around 1,300 students, finding a part-time role is accessible and personalized.

On-Campus Job Opportunities

Austin College prioritizes hiring its own students for on-campus positions, making it easier for internationals to secure roles without needing off-campus approval. Common departments include the library, dining hall, administrative offices, and residence life. These jobs are flexible around your class schedule, and many supervisors are understanding of international students' needs, such as visa restrictions or cultural adjustments.

Here's a breakdown of popular on-campus roles tailored for students like you:

• Library Assistant: Shelving books, assisting patrons, and digital archiving. Ideal for detail-oriented students; average pay: $10–$12/hour. Great for building research skills useful for your academics.
• Dining Services Staff: Working at the on-campus cafeteria (known as the "Kangaroo Kafe") in roles like server, cashier, or prep cook. Flexible shifts; pay: $9–$11/hour plus meals. A fun way to interact with diverse peers and learn American hospitality norms.
• Administrative Aide: Supporting offices like Admissions, Career Services, or the Registrar. Tasks include data entry, event setup, and reception duties. Pay: $11–$13/hour. Excellent for networking with faculty and gaining office experience transferable to Indian corporate environments.
• Tutoring or Peer Mentor: Through the Academic Skills Center, tutor subjects like math, writing, or even Hindi/Indian culture if you're bilingual. Pay: $12–$15/hour. Perfect for Indian students strong in STEM or humanities, enhancing your teaching portfolio.
• Residence Life Assistant (RA): If you're living on-campus, become an RA to support dorm events and resident needs. Often includes room and board waivers; stipend: $500–$800/semester. Builds leadership skills valued in Indian job markets.
• Event and Grounds Crew: Helping with campus events, sports facilities, or maintenance. Seasonal roles during festivals; pay: $10–$12/hour. Offers physical activity and team-building in a relaxed Texas setting.

Pro Tip for Indian Students: Many roles involve customer-facing interactions, so practicing English communication and understanding American work etiquette (like punctuality and direct feedback) will give you an edge. Austin College's multicultural clubs, including the International Club, often host workshops on resume building and interview tips.

Eligibility, Regulations, and Application Process

To start working, maintain full-time enrollment (at least 12 credits/semester) and good academic standing. Your Designated School Official (DSO) at Austin College will authorize on-campus employment via your I-20 form—no additional USCIS approval needed.

Key Regulations for F-1 Students:

1. Limit to 20 hours/week during terms; unlimited during breaks.
2. Jobs must be on-campus or with affiliated off-campus sites (e.g., college-run programs).
3. Report all earnings to the International Office to stay compliant with visa status.
4. Avoid unauthorized work to prevent visa revocation—always consult advisors first.

The application process is straightforward:

1. Register with Handshake: Austin College's online job portal lists all openings. Create a profile highlighting your skills from India (e.g., tech savvy or multilingual abilities).
2. Visit Career Services: Located in the Jordan Family Language Learning Center, they offer one-on-one advising. For next intake students, attend the "International Job Fair" in the first month.
3. Apply Directly: Submit resumes to department heads via email or in-person. Include a cover letter explaining how the role fits your studies.
4. Interviews: Short and informal; prepare by researching the department. Indian students often succeed by emphasizing adaptability and strong work ethic.

Taxes are a must—expect 10–14% withholding, but you can claim refunds via Form 1040NR. Austin College provides free tax workshops annually.

Off-Campus and Advanced Opportunities

While on-campus is the easiest start, after your first year, explore CPT for degree-related internships (e.g., in Sherman’s local businesses like hospitals or tech firms). For post-graduation, OPT allows up to 12 months of work (36 for STEM majors). Austin College's high employability rate (95% placement within six months) means part-time experience here boosts your OPT chances.

Nearby Sherman offers limited off-campus gigs like retail at Walmart or tutoring in local schools, but secure CPT first. For Indian students eyeing H-1B visas later, these roles build U.S. work history.

Benefits and Tips for Success

Part-time jobs at Austin College go beyond money—earn $1,500–$3,000/semester while gaining soft skills like time management and cultural fluency. Many Indian alumni credit these experiences for securing jobs at firms like Google or Deloitte upon return.

Job Type	Avg. Hourly Pay	Weekly Hours (Term Time)	Key Benefit for Indian Students
Library Assistant	$10–$12	10–15	Quiet environment for focused workers
Dining Services	$9–$11	15–20	Free meals reduce food costs
Administrative Aide	$11–$13	10–15	Professional references for future visas
Tutoring	$12–$15	5–10	Leverages academic strengths from India

Tips for Indian Students Preparing for Next Intake: Update your LinkedIn with Austin College connections pre-arrival. Budget for initial months without income, and join Indian student groups for job-sharing advice. With Texas's low cost of living (Sherman rent: $600–$900/month shared), part-time work makes your U.S. dream sustainable. Contact international@austincollege.edu for personalized guidance.

Embrace these opportunities—Austin College's supportive vibe ensures your part-time journey enhances, not hinders, your studies.