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Today's job market has become highly competitive and in many cases a college degree does not guarantee a candidate a job upon graduation, much less a good paying job. In checking the help wanted ads in the Sunday edition of a major newspaper and several online resources, a common theme in the requirements for even entry level positions is that employers want experience. As a college student, there are many ways to acquire experience that is career related. Internships, practicum experiences, job shadowing, and co-op experiences are just a few of those options. Another option is a part time job.

Part time jobs can provide several benefits for college students. One is the financial benefit. It definitely helps to have extra spending money and money to assist in paying for college expenses. Aside from that, part time jobs begin to establish a work history for the future. For that reason, students may want to carefully consider and select their part time positions in order to acquire valuable work skills to gain an edge in today's job market. By carefully selecting job experiences, you can fill in gaps in your education and experience that may make you more attractive to a potential employer after graduation. You may also gain a better understanding of your chosen career field and thereby either validate your career choices or determine that you need to change your career goals.

In some instances, opportunities for part time jobs may be limited. Part-time employment, whether in a fast food restaurant or in a prestigious firm, can still help develop skills important to a potential employer after graduation. These skills may include leadership skills, people skills, the ability to make a commitment to an employer and follow through, the ability to work as part of a team, complete tasks and accept constructive criticism. In addition to the knowledge you will gain through your educational experiences, employers today are seeking employees who are well rounded, productive, and able to assimilate into the climate of the organization. The skills learned in your part-time position will expand and increase your skills and abilities as well as benefit you financially.