Part-Time Job Opportunities at University of Dayton

Exciting Part-Time Work Options for Indian Students Studying in the USA

As an Indian student pursuing higher education at the University of Dayton (UD) in Ohio, balancing academics with part-time work can help you gain valuable experience, cover living expenses, and immerse yourself in American campus life. UD, a vibrant Catholic university known for its supportive community, offers numerous on-campus job opportunities tailored to international students on F-1 visas. With the next intake approaching, understanding these options early will prepare you to hit the ground running. Remember, part-time jobs not only provide financial support but also build your resume for future careers in the USA or back home in India.

Under U.S. immigration rules, F-1 visa holders like you can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during official breaks (like summer or winter holidays). Off-campus work requires additional authorization after your first year. UD's International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office is your go-to resource for guidance, ensuring compliance while maximizing opportunities.

Eligibility for International Students

• On-Campus Employment: Available immediately upon enrollment. No special permission needed beyond maintaining full-time student status (at least 12 credits per semester).
• Off-Campus Employment: Possible after one academic year via Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for degree-related internships or Optional Practical Training (OPT) post-graduation. Pre-completion OPT is limited.
• Key Requirements: Good academic standing (GPA 2.0+), valid F-1 status, and Social Security Number (SSN) application through ISSS. Indian students should consult UD's career center for visa-specific advice to avoid any complications.

Pro Tip: Start by attending UD's orientation sessions for international students, where job workshops are often highlighted. This is especially helpful for the fall intake, as many positions fill up quickly.

Types of On-Campus Part-Time Jobs

UD boasts over 1,000 on-campus positions across various departments, making it easy for Indian students to find roles that fit around classes. These jobs are flexible, often 10-15 hours/week, and pay around $10-15 per hour—enough to offset costs like groceries or transport in Dayton's affordable living environment.

Job Category	Description	Skills Gained	Typical Pay (USD/hour)
Dining Services	Server, cashier, or kitchen assistant at campus eateries like the Kennedy Union or Marycrest Dining Hall. Great for those who enjoy fast-paced team environments.	Customer service, time management—transferable to hospitality jobs in India.	$11-13
Library & Tutoring	Roesch Library roles like shelving books or peer tutoring in subjects such as engineering or business. Ideal for academically strong Indian students.	Research skills, teaching—boosts grad school applications.	$12-14
Administrative & Office Support	Clerical work in departments like admissions or student life, including data entry or event setup.	Office software proficiency (Excel, Word), communication—valuable for corporate roles.	$10-12
Residence Life & Campus Events	Resident advisor (RA) or event staff for sports games and cultural festivals. RAs get free housing as a perk!	Leadership, event planning—enhances cultural exchange experiences for Indians.	$12-15 (plus perks)
Research & Lab Assistants	Supporting faculty in UD's strong engineering or sciences programs. Perfect for STEM-bound Indian students.	Hands-on research, technical skills—aligns with H-1B visa pathways.	$13-15

Many Indian students at UD thrive in these roles, especially in tutoring where your strong math or IT background from India shines. The university's diverse community, with active Indian Student Association events, makes networking for jobs seamless.

Off-Campus and Internship Opportunities

After your first year, explore CPT for paid internships at local Dayton companies like Dayton Aviation Heritage or tech firms in nearby Cincinnati. UD's Career Connections office hosts job fairs twice a year, connecting you to roles in healthcare, manufacturing, and IT—sectors booming for Indian talent.

• Popular Off-Campus Spots: Retail at The Greene Town Center, tutoring centers, or airport jobs at Dayton International Airport (10-20 min drive).
• Authorization Process: Apply through ISSS at least 30 days in advance. Earnings can reach $15-20/hour for skilled roles.
• Indian Student Focus: Look for Holi or Diwali event staffing—fun ways to earn while celebrating culture.

How to Apply and Secure a Job

1. Register with Handshake: UD's online job portal—create a profile highlighting your Indian education (e.g., IIT/JEE prep for analytical roles).
2. Visit Career Services: Located in the Career Connections Center; schedule advising sessions for resume reviews tailored to U.S. standards.
3. Network: Join clubs like the International Club or Engineering Society. Attend the annual International Job Fair in spring.
4. Prepare Documents: Updated resume, cover letter, and I-20 form. Practice interviews—UD offers mock sessions.
5. Timing for Next Intake: Apply in late August for fall positions; summer jobs open in April.

Success stories abound: Many Indian alumni started as library aides and landed OPT roles at Fortune 500 companies.

Earnings, Taxes, and Financial Tips

Average weekly earnings: $200-300 during term time, up to $800+ in summers. This covers 30-50% of living costs in Dayton (rent ~$600/month, food ~$300). As an F-1 student, you'll pay federal taxes (10-15% withheld), but claim refunds via Form 1040NR. Use earnings wisely—save for OPT travel or send home via apps like Wise.

Caution: Prioritize studies; exceeding hours risks visa status. UD's wellness resources help manage work-study balance.

Why Part-Time Jobs at UD Benefit Indian Students

Beyond money, these jobs foster independence, cultural adaptation, and U.S. work ethic—key for post-study work visas like OPT (up to 3 years for STEM). UD's 90% employment rate for grads underscores how early experience pays off. For the upcoming intake, connect with current Indian students via UD's Facebook groups for insider tips.

Ready to start? Contact ISSS at isss@udayton.edu or visit udayton.edu/international. Your UD journey includes thriving, not just surviving!