Part-Time Jobs at Lewis University: Opportunities for Indian Students

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

As an Indian student preparing for your study abroad journey to the USA, managing finances is a key concern. Part-time jobs not only help cover living expenses like rent, food, and transportation but also provide invaluable work experience, cultural immersion, and networking opportunities. At Lewis University in Romeoville, Illinois—just a short drive from Chicago—you'll find supportive resources tailored for international students. Under F-1 visa rules, you can work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during the academic term and full-time during breaks like summer or winter holidays. This is perfect for the upcoming intake, allowing you to balance studies with earnings starting from your first semester.

Lewis University emphasizes student success, offering dedicated career services through its Career Services Center to help you navigate job opportunities. With a diverse campus community, including many Indian students, you'll feel at home while building your resume for future careers in fields like aviation, nursing, business, or computer science—Lewis's popular programs.

On-Campus Job Opportunities

The easiest and most accessible option for international students is on-campus employment. No additional work authorization is needed beyond your F-1 status, and jobs are often flexible around class schedules. Lewis University employs over 500 students annually in various roles, paying typically $10–$15 per hour (minimum wage in Illinois is $15 as of 2024). Earnings can range from $800–$1,200 monthly if you work the full 20 hours, helping offset costs like the $1,200–$1,500 monthly living expenses in the Chicago suburbs.

• Library and Academic Support: Assist in the Harold L. White Library by shelving books, helping with research, or tutoring peers. Ideal for students in education or liberal arts programs.
• Dining Services and Campus Cafes: Work as a cashier, server, or barista at the Lewis dining halls or on-campus eateries like the Flyer Cafe. Great for hospitality-interested students; shifts align with meal times.
• Administrative and Office Roles: Support departments like admissions, student affairs, or the international office. Tasks include data entry, event coordination, or greeting visitors—perfect for building professional skills.
• Residence Life and Facilities: Serve as a resident assistant (RA) in dorms, earning free or reduced housing (worth $4,000–$6,000/year), or help with maintenance and event setup.
• Athletics and Recreation: If you're into sports, join roles like scorekeeper for Flyers games or gym attendant at the Santori World Class Athletic Center.
• Research and Lab Assistants: For STEM students, assist professors in labs, especially in aviation, cybersecurity, or nursing—opportunities that can lead to internships.

To apply, visit the Student Employment Portal on Lewis's myLewis portal after enrollment. Interviews are straightforward, and the university prioritizes international students to foster inclusivity. For the next intake (Fall 2025), start checking openings in August for immediate starts.

Off-Campus Job Options and Visa Requirements

While on-campus jobs are straightforward, off-campus work offers more variety and potentially higher pay ($15–$20/hour in Chicago's job market). However, it requires U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approval. As an Indian F-1 student, you can pursue:

1. Curricular Practical Training (CPT): For jobs related to your major, available after one academic year. Lewis's Career Services helps with applications; common for business or IT students interning at nearby firms.
2. Optional Practical Training (OPT): Up to 12 months post-graduation (or 36 months for STEM fields like computer science at Lewis). Pre-completion OPT allows part-time work during studies.
3. Severe Economic Hardship: If finances are tight, apply for off-campus authorization after proving need—Lewis's international office assists with documentation.

Popular off-campus sectors for Indian students near Lewis include:

Sector	Job Examples	Average Pay/Hour	Why Suitable for Indian Students
Retail & Hospitality	Cashier at Walmart, server at local Indian restaurants in Chicago	$12–$16	Familiar food/service roles; many Desi-owned businesses hire internationals
Tech & Tutoring	IT support at startups, online math/English tutor via platforms like Tutor.com	$15–$25	Leverages strong STEM background; remote options fit class schedules
Delivery & Rideshare	Driver for Uber Eats or Amazon Flex (requires U.S. license after 6 months)	$14–$20 (tips included)	Flexible hours; earn more during weekends in busy Chicago area
Healthcare Support	Patient aide at Lewis-affiliated clinics or nursing homes	$15–$18	Aligns with nursing programs; builds resume for H-1B visa paths

Chicago's proximity (30 minutes by train) opens doors to diverse jobs, but always maintain full-time enrollment to stay visa-compliant. Lewis's location in Will County means access to Joliet and Naperville job markets too.

Tips for Indian Students to Land Part-Time Jobs

Securing a job can feel daunting, but with preparation, it's achievable. Here's how to succeed:

• Build a U.S.-Style Resume: Keep it one page, highlight relevant skills from India (e.g., internships at IITs or family businesses), and include your international status. Use Lewis's resume workshops.
• Network Actively: Join Indian Student Association (ISA) events or Diwali celebrations at Lewis to connect with alumni. Attend career fairs—Lewis hosts two per year with 100+ employers.
• Leverage University Resources: The International Student Services office offers job search webinars, mock interviews, and visa advice. Handshake platform lists exclusive postings.
• Adapt Culturally: Emphasize soft skills like teamwork; practice English accents if needed. For Indian festivals, look for seasonal jobs at grocery stores stocking spices.
• Budget Wisely: Use apps like Mint to track earnings. Remember, taxes apply (file Form 1040NR), but you may qualify for refunds.
• Start Early: For the next intake, apply for on-campus jobs upon arrival in late August. Off-campus CPT can begin after your first semester.

Part-time work at Lewis University isn't just about money—it's a gateway to independence, skill-building, and American professional culture. Many Indian graduates credit these experiences for their post-OPT success in tech hubs like Chicago or Silicon Valley. With Lewis's supportive environment, your study abroad adventure will be financially and personally rewarding. Contact the Career Services Center at careers@lewisu.edu for personalized guidance today!