Vandy Works is a helpful student job system at Vanderbilt University that connects students with on-campus and nearby part-time work opportunities. If you’re a college student looking to earn money, gain work experience, and still keep up with your classes, this guide will walk you through how Vandy Works helps you do just that. Whether you want to earn some pocket money, save for tuition, or build your resume, Vandy Works is a great place to start.
What is Vandy Works?
Vandy Works is Vanderbilt University’s student employment platform designed to help current students find part-time jobs on campus or in surrounding areas. Managed by the university’s Office of Student Employment, it makes job searching easy and quick for full-time undergraduate and graduate students. The platform offers access to flexible roles that fit around your class schedule, including work-study positions for eligible students. Whether you’re looking for a job in the library, a research lab, the dining hall, or even in administration offices, Vandy Works connects you directly to employers looking for student workers. It’s a trusted and safe system meant to support you as a student worker. Many jobs listed here require no experience, making it perfect for students starting their first job ever. Signing up is free and simple, and you get access to real job opportunities designed just for Vanderbilt students.
Who Can Use Vandy Works?
Any currently enrolled Vanderbilt University student can use Vandy Works. This includes both undergraduate and graduate students. Whether you’re a freshman just getting started or a senior preparing for graduation, Vandy Works has opportunities for everyone. International students and students with federal work-study awards can also use the platform, though there may be some job restrictions depending on your visa status or eligibility. In short, if you go to Vanderbilt and you’re looking for a job, Vandy Works is built for you. The platform is open to students across all majors and disciplines, and no matter your schedule, there’s likely a job that fits your availability.
Why Do Students Use Vandy Works?
Students use Vandy Works because it’s easy, safe, and designed specifically for them. Unlike many other job websites, every opportunity on Vandy Works is reviewed and approved by the university, which means you’re not wasting time applying for fake or low-quality jobs. Plus, it’s focused only on student-friendly roles that understand your schedule and academic priorities. For students who want to make money, learn new skills, and gain professional experience before graduating, Vandy Works is the perfect first step into the working world.
Learn While You Earn
One of the best reasons to use Vandy Works is that you get to learn while you earn. Many campus jobs are in departments where you can learn about subjects related to your major or interests. For example, if you’re a computer science student, you might find a tech support job at the library or a research assistant role in a computing lab. These jobs not only pay you but also teach you valuable skills like communication, time management, teamwork, and professional behavior. Instead of working random gigs off-campus, Vandy Works lets you earn money in a learning environment that supports your education.
Save Time and Money
On-campus jobs through Vandy Works are usually just a short walk from your dorm or class, which means you’re not wasting time or money commuting. This is a big deal when you’re balancing studies, clubs, and social life. Some jobs also offer meal credits or discounts on campus services, helping you save even more. You’ll also have fewer worries about scheduling because these jobs are made for students. Your supervisors will understand if you have a test or a project and might let you adjust your hours accordingly. That kind of flexibility is hard to find in regular part-time jobs.
Build Your Resume Early
It’s never too early to start building your resume, and Vandy Works gives you a way to do that while you’re still in school. Employers love to see real work experience, and even a part-time role in the campus bookstore or administrative office can show that you’re responsible and professional. Many students even use their Vandy Works jobs as a stepping stone to internships or full-time employment after graduation. When you work on campus, you can also make strong connections with professors, staff, and other professionals who may later write recommendations or help you find career opportunities.
How to Sign Up for Vandy Works
Signing up for Vandy Works is easy and only takes a few minutes. You start by logging in with your Vanderbilt student credentials on the university’s Student Employment portal. Once you’re logged in, you can set up your profile with your contact info, major, class year, and work preferences. After that, you can start browsing available jobs by keyword, department, or type (like federal work-study or hourly wage). When you see a job you like, you can apply directly through the system, often just by submitting a short application and resume. If you’re unsure about how to apply, Vanderbilt’s Career Center offers free help with resume writing and interview practice. After applying, you might be contacted for an interview, and if selected, you’ll get instructions on how to complete your hiring paperwork, including tax forms and direct deposit setup. That’s it — you’re ready to start working!
What Kind of Jobs Are Available?
There are many types of jobs listed on Vandy Works, and they vary by season and department needs. You’ll find jobs like library assistant, lab technician, dining hall server, office clerk, student ambassador, and event staff. Some roles are academic in nature, like helping a professor with research or tutoring fellow students, while others are service-based, such as delivering campus mail or working in customer service. Jobs range from a few hours a week to up to 20 hours, depending on your availability and eligibility. Most of these jobs don’t require previous work experience, which makes them ideal for students entering the job market for the first time. During school breaks, there are often temporary jobs or additional hours available, which is perfect if you’re staying on campus over the summer.
Tips to Get Hired Fast
Getting hired through Vandy Works doesn’t have to be hard, especially if you prepare ahead of time. Here are some tips to boost your chances and get hired quickly.
Write a Simple Resume
Even if you’ve never had a job before, a clean, simple resume can make a big difference. Include your name, contact info, education, and any volunteer work, school clubs, or class projects you’ve worked on. Keep it one page and use simple words. Be honest about your skills and don’t forget to include things like teamwork, leadership, and time management. You can use free resume templates online or get help from the Vanderbilt Career Center.
Practice Talking
You might be nervous in your first job interview, but that’s totally normal. Practice speaking clearly and confidently about who you are, what you’re studying, and why you want the job. Think about a few questions the employer might ask, like “Why do you want to work here?” or “What’s your schedule like?” Practicing your answers out loud can help you feel more ready. If you’re shy, try doing a mock interview with a friend or mentor.
How Much Can You Earn with Vandy Works?
The pay for Vandy Works jobs usually ranges from $9 to $15 per hour, depending on the type of job and your experience. Most students work between 5 and 15 hours per week, which means you could earn around $200 to $600 a month. That’s enough to cover personal expenses, buy textbooks, save up, or even help with tuition. Some jobs offer raises if you return the next semester, and others may have additional perks like free meals or professional training. While you won’t get rich from a student job, the experience and flexibility are worth more than just the paycheck.
Vandy Works vs Regular Jobs
When you compare Vandy Works jobs to regular off-campus jobs, the difference is clear. Vandy Works jobs are made for students. They understand your schedule, offer flexible hours, and are located close to your dorm or classes. Regular jobs, like those in restaurants or retail, may pay slightly more but usually come with rigid schedules, long commutes, and less understanding of your academic life. Plus, many Vandy Works jobs are related to your future career, which makes them better in the long run. If your goal is to earn money, save time, and still have space for your studies, Vandy Works is the better choice.
The Bottom Line
Vandy Works is a smart, easy, and helpful way for Vanderbilt students to earn money, gain experience, and prepare for their future careers. With flexible job options, no prior experience required, and a platform built just for students, it’s one of the best resources on campus. Whether you’re trying to pay for school, get work experience, or just want a part-time job that fits into your schedule, Vandy Works can help. It’s easy to sign up, simple to use, and full of job opportunities that make sense for your life as a student. If you’re at Vanderbilt and looking to work, don’t wait — check out Vandy Works today and take your first step toward success.
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