3 answers
Antonia
Student
1
Question
Updated
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How can I find a part time job within the fields of public policy/law, economics, and/or business as a college student?
I'm currently a college senior, planning on graduating in May 2026. I want to hone my skills in my major, but it feels like I cannot find an entry level job right now. Are there any particular things that would help me break into the fields?
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3 answers
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Antonia. As a lecturer, I always advise my students to be proactive and persistent in their job search. One important thing I tell them is to take advantage of any connections they already have. Whether through internships, professors, or fellow students, networking can often lead to hidden job opportunities that aren't advertised. I've seen many students land part-time roles or internships simply by asking for advice or reaching out to industry professionals directly.
Additionally, you can consider research assistant positions, which are particularly valuable in economics and public policy. These roles can be a great way to strengthen your research, analytical, and writing skills. Research assistants help professors or researchers collect data, analyze findings, and prepare reports, all of which are highly transferable skills. These positions can also help you build relationships with faculty members who may later serve as mentors or recommend you for future opportunities.
Freelancing is another option to consider. With the rise of platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, etc., it's easier than ever for students to find part-time consulting projects. You can offer services like market research, data analysis, or writing business reports. Even though freelancing might not always feel like traditional employment, it helps develop key skills such as communication, project management, and time management, which are essential in all of these fields. Hope this helps. All the best.
Additionally, you can consider research assistant positions, which are particularly valuable in economics and public policy. These roles can be a great way to strengthen your research, analytical, and writing skills. Research assistants help professors or researchers collect data, analyze findings, and prepare reports, all of which are highly transferable skills. These positions can also help you build relationships with faculty members who may later serve as mentors or recommend you for future opportunities.
Freelancing is another option to consider. With the rise of platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, etc., it's easier than ever for students to find part-time consulting projects. You can offer services like market research, data analysis, or writing business reports. Even though freelancing might not always feel like traditional employment, it helps develop key skills such as communication, project management, and time management, which are essential in all of these fields. Hope this helps. All the best.
Haley Hill
Human Resource Senior Manager
4
Answers
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Updated
Haley’s Answer
Hi Antonia, if you're a college student, try reaching out to your professors and any guest speakers in your classes. Contact your college advisory office too; they often know employers looking for students like you. Check out job boards sponsored by your school and others for job openings. Also, make sure to attend any career fairs your university offers.
DENNIS BREEN
Lawyer
228
Answers
Cary, North Carolina
Updated
DENNIS’s Answer
Antonia: Beside being a lawyer I teach guys in jail how to get jobs when they get out. One of the things I suggest, volunteer at a place you think you'd like to work. Start now while you are still in college. Get your feet wet.
Plus once inside you will get a look at what options are available. Win-win for you and them!
Failing that go to the Courthouse and try to get a parttime job there. That will expose you to all sorts of stuff.
The place you volunteer at MAY have a scholarship program. Good to know.
One other tip, your school has a placement office. Go in and ask for help. They have a lot more respouces then either you or me! Use them! Good luck!
Plus once inside you will get a look at what options are available. Win-win for you and them!
Failing that go to the Courthouse and try to get a parttime job there. That will expose you to all sorts of stuff.
The place you volunteer at MAY have a scholarship program. Good to know.
One other tip, your school has a placement office. Go in and ask for help. They have a lot more respouces then either you or me! Use them! Good luck!
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Antonia