Part-Time Job Opportunities at Lakeland University

For Indian students dreaming of studying in the USA, part-time jobs are a fantastic way to ease financial pressures, gain practical experience, and immerse yourself in American campus life. At Lakeland University in Plymouth, Wisconsin, international students on F-1 visas can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during official breaks like summer or winter holidays. This is especially beneficial for the upcoming intake, as it helps cover living expenses amid rising costs in the US. With its small, supportive community of around 2,500 students, Lakeland makes it easier for newcomers from India to find roles that fit around your studies in business, education, or STEM programs.

Eligibility and Visa Regulations for International Students

Understanding US immigration rules is crucial before diving in. As an F-1 visa holder, you must maintain full-time enrollment (at least 12 credits per semester) to qualify for on-campus work. Off-campus jobs require special authorization like Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT), which Lakeland's International Student Services office can guide you through.

• On-Campus Work: No additional approval needed beyond your I-20 form. Ideal for first-year students arriving in the fall or spring intake.
• Hour Limits: 20 hours/week during classes; unlimited during breaks. This flexibility suits Indian students balancing rigorous academics with cultural adjustment.
• Tax Implications: Earnings are taxable, but you can claim benefits under the US-India tax treaty. Expect a W-4 form for withholding—Lakeland's advisors help with this.
• Duration: Jobs start after your first month on campus to ensure academic focus, aligning perfectly with the next intake timelines.

Pro Tip for Indian Students: Start networking during orientation week. Many from India find that early applications lead to steady gigs, helping offset the $10,000–$15,000 annual living costs in Wisconsin.

On-Campus Job Opportunities at Lakeland University

Lakeland University prides itself on student employment, offering over 100 positions annually across its 240-acre campus. These roles are tailored for international students, providing not just income but also resume-building skills valued back in India. Average hourly wages range from $10–$15 USD, translating to $800–$1,200 monthly during term time—enough to cover groceries, transport, or even Diwali celebrations!

Common departments hiring include the library, dining services, athletics, and administrative offices. The university's Career Services team hosts job fairs twice a semester, specifically highlighting opportunities for F-1 students.

Popular Part-Time Roles and Responsibilities

Job Type	Description	Skills Gained	Average Pay (USD/hour)
Library Assistant	Shelving books, assisting with research queries, and managing circulation desk. Quiet environment perfect for study breaks.	Research skills, customer service, organization—great for MBA or library science aspirants from India.	$10–$12
Dining Hall Staff	Serving meals, cleaning, or cashier duties at the Muskies Dining Hall. Flexible shifts around meal times.	Teamwork, time management, food handling—useful for hospitality management students.	$11–$13
Athletics Helper	Scorekeeping for basketball games, equipment setup, or event support. Fun way to engage with campus sports.	Leadership, event coordination—ideal for sports management or kinesiology programs.	$10–$14
Office Assistant (Admissions/International Office)	Greeting visitors, data entry, or helping with international student events. Direct exposure to admin processes.	Communication, MS Office proficiency, cultural exchange—boosts profiles for future jobs in India or US.	$12–$15
Resident Assistant (RA)	Supporting dorm life, organizing activities, and mediating conflicts. Requires application and training.	Conflict resolution, leadership—often includes free housing, a huge perk for budget-conscious Indian students.	$12 + room waiver

These positions are beginner-friendly, with no prior US experience required. Many Indian alumni from Lakeland credit these jobs for building confidence and English fluency.

How to Apply for Part-Time Jobs

1. Check Availability: Visit the Student Employment portal on MyLakeland (university's online system) or stop by the Career Services office in the student center.
2. Prepare Resume: Highlight your Indian education, extracurriculars, and any volunteer work. Tailor it to show transferable skills like teamwork from college fests.
3. Submit Application: Online forms are simple; include a cover letter explaining your F-1 status and availability. Deadlines align with intake—apply by mid-September for fall starters.
4. Interview: Casual on-campus chats. Practice common questions like "How do you handle multitasking?" to stand out.
5. Get Hired: Once approved, your payroll is set up via direct deposit. International Office ensures compliance.

Indian Student Insight: Leverage the Indian Student Association at Lakeland for job leads—seniors often share openings via WhatsApp groups.

Benefits of Part-Time Work at Lakeland

Beyond earnings, these jobs offer invaluable advantages:

• Financial Relief: Earn $2,000–$5,000 per year to supplement scholarships or family support, crucial with the USD-INR exchange rate.
• Professional Growth: Build a US work history for OPT or H-1B applications. Skills like customer service translate well to Indian job markets in IT or consulting.
• Cultural Integration: Interact with diverse peers, learn American etiquette, and combat homesickness—perfect for the first semester abroad.
• Networking: Connect with professors and staff for recommendations. Many roles lead to internships.
• Work-Life Balance: Lakeland's small size means supportive supervisors who understand international schedules, including time for Holi or exam prep.

Off-Campus and Advanced Opportunities

For second-year students, explore CPT for paid internships related to your major, like business placements in nearby Sheboygan. Post-graduation, OPT allows up to 12 months (or 36 for STEM) of full-time work. Lakeland's 95% placement rate includes guidance for Indian students targeting tech giants or finance firms.

Ready for the next intake? Part-time jobs at Lakeland University aren't just about money—they're your gateway to a successful US education. Contact the International Office at international@lakeland.edu for personalized advice and start your journey!