October 20, 2023
Balancing academics and work can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding. Plus, time management and organization are great skills to include on your resume! While it’s ideal to meet the goals of making money and working in your career area of interest, it’s also important to search for opportunities to develop transferable skills and build professionalism.
Create a plan
Consider these questions.
- What companies are you applying to?
- What skills are they searching for in a candidate?
- How much time will you dedicate each day or week?
- Where can you search beyond general job posting websites? How can you be creative with your search?
Use effective techniques
- Connect with us for a resume critique to ensure you’re showcasing your skills and experience in a way that will appeal to your audience. Book an appointment on OSCARplus (Student Success Centre > Appointments > Careers) or attend our virtual career drop-ins.
- Attend webinar sessions to learn more tips and get answers to your questions. Topics include resumes, LinkedIn, networking, interviews and job searching. Register on OSCARplus (Student Success Centre > Events).
- Talk to people. You never know who can lead you to your next opportunity. Telling your friends, family, professors, teaching assistants and peers what you’re searching for may lead to ideas and referrals.
Use many methods
- Check job posting websites. (But don’t stop there!)
- Go to company websites for postings and do your research. Tailor your application before you apply.
- Use social media platforms to connect with organizations, people and opportunities.
- LinkedIn can be a powerful professional tool — search McMaster University alumni to find out what they do now.
- Check the McMaster Alumni and Partner Advisor Network to connect with individuals from different backgrounds who are willing to help!
Final tips
- Cast your job search net as widely as possible. Don’t just apply for your ideal job and hope you get it. Have a back-up plan.
- Apply, apply, apply! It can take up to (or more than) 50 applications to secure an interview!
- Remember, you can build skills, experience and professional networks in any job. It’s what you make of your experience, not what your experience makes you.
Where to search on campus
- This program offers on-campus opportunities for currently registered students who demonstrate financial need.
- Part-time jobs are posted in early August and sporadically throughout the school year; summer jobs are posted in early March.
- International students, please check International Student Work Opportunity (ISWO) eligibility.
- Find paid and volunteer positions.
David Braley Athletic Centre (DBAC)
- You can find opportunities for service desk, business office, the Pulse, strength and conditioning and intramural support.
- You can find opportunities to work at food service stations and catering services.
Where to search in the community
OSCARplus and other job posting websites
- OSCARplus: Check the job postings regularly — we post local, national and international opportunities daily.
- Indeed
- Eluta: Search by location (include job title if you are looking for something specific) and refine search by “part-time”
- Government of Canada Job Bank
- Charity Village
- Workforce Planning Ontario
Virtual and remote work
Here are some websites that are dedicated to virtual work opportunities.
Note: You can usually filter by “remote” on typical job websites like Indeed.
Hamilton community*
- Retail positions: Check stores in Westdale, Dundurn Plaza, University Plaza, Jackson Square, Ancaster Meadowlands and Limeridge Mall.
- Check company websites for job postings (especially department stores or chains).
Note: If you’re not currently in Hamilton, consider similar options in your area.