Thinking a part-time job during your undergrad will help you secure a position after graduation? Think again. A new study released by the University of Guelph has revealed that employers value the skills gained by students involved in on-campus activities more than those gained at off-campus part-time jobs. Evaluating Guelph students between 2009 and 2011, the study looked at those who participated in the community as Peer Helpers or in student government. It also looked at students not involved in any campus-run activities and found that those with off-campus jobs showed a lack of the skills employers desire when looking to hire new graduates.

Those involved in campus activities proved to have superior people management skills and be better communicators and team members. They also took more responsibility for their own self-improvement and for innovating or initiating change. As for students who chose to work off-campus, they didnt’ show the same “boost” in skills, making them less desireable to potential employers. So unless your off-campus part-time job is freelance app development or something equally in demand, don’t count on your “work-experience” putting you ahead of the game when graduation comes along. 

[via Globe and Mail and Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario]

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Eva Voinigescu is an intern at Toronto Standard. Follow her on Twitter @EvaVoinigescu.

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