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Create your own job
As a UBC student, you can create an employment opportunity in your area of interest by asking potential supervisors to develop a Work Study or Work Learn job for you.
Here are some tips on how to do it.
Key facts
- Work Learn and Work Study are wage subsidy programs that contribute $9 per hour toward students' wages, while your UBC employer makes up the rest.
- In 2009/10, about 24% of students in Work Learn either found or created their own position.
- UBC faculties and staff that make extensive use of these programs include the AMS, Athletics and Recreation, UBC Libraries and departments across campus.
Before you approach a faculty or staff member
- Think about and identify people you know who could hire you, like your professors. All UBC faculty and staff with UBC Payroll accounts are eligible to submit a Work Study/Work Learn project proposal.
- Study and understand the research that faculties or departments are conducting. Does the research suit your interests? Teaching Assistants (TAs) can help you identify research projects and possible employment opportunities in the department.
- Think about how you could add value or be of assistance to the research or work. Skills and knowledge you bring to the role might include:
- Previous research you've done
- Courses you've taken in that field
- Related volunteer or work experience
- Specific skills, such as additional languages or computer skills
- Be prepared to answer questions about the rules and application process of the program you are eligible for (Work Learn or Work Study).
Meet with your potential employer
- Schedule a meeting with your potential employer, or visit during their regular office hours.
- Bring your resumé and be prepared to answer questions about your academic interests, future goals, and related experience.
- Smile and introduce yourself with a handshake.
- Be professional in your communication and presentable in your dress to give a good first impression.
- Discuss your skills and your interest in working with them.
- Tell them they can receive a subsidy of $9 per hour for every hour you work.
- Be considerate of their time. They may be very busy.
- Thank them for meeting with you.
Follow up
If the potential supervisor:
- Has no opportunities at the moment, ask them if they could refer you to colleagues who may want to hire students.
- Is interested in hiring you but isn't ready to make a decision, follow up with a phone call or email a few days after your meeting.
- Asks questions you can't answer, tell them to contact Career Services or let them know that you will ask Career Services to contact them.
- Agrees to hire you, congratulations! Ask the supervisor to contact Career Services about submitting a proposal to the appropriate program for approval. Proceed to Step 3 of the application process.
Other tips
- If the first individuals you approach are not interested, do not give up! Keep trying. Looking for a job is a process and usually requires effort and patience.
- In addition to speaking to potential employers, apply to as many Work Learn or Work Study positions as you are interested in and qualified for. The more applications you submit, the greater your chances of being hired. Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for the appropriate program first.
Questions about Work Study or Work Learn?
Check out the Work Study and Work Learn frequently asked questions. If you can't find the information you need on our website, please contact:
Acting Program Assistant
604.822.8278
careers.workstudy@ubc.ca
Priority will be given to questions that are not answered on this website.
