Student Guide to Community Based Work Study

Smith Center for Global Engagement
Academic Civic Engagement
For Students
Student Guide to Community Based Work Study

About

Community Based Work Study (CBWS) allows students with a Federal (FWS) or State (SWS) funded work award to work with one of St. Olaf’s community partners. The program provides financial aid assistance through real-world work experiences and personal and professional growth with community organizations.

There are two types of CBWS positions:
1. Northfield Colleges Tutors: Formerly the “America Reads and Counts”, the program include tutoring activities to K-12 learners at organizations or institutions that serves the public. This program collaborates with Carleton College to ensure unity of services for the Northfield community.
2. Off-Campus Community Service: Includes non-profit or government organizations (including St. Olaf College) that serves the public community. (i.e. museums, public offices, charitable organizations, schools, etc.).

Eligibility and Requirements

Student must have been awarded either a Federal Work Study (FWS) or State Work Study (SWS) award types.
If working with minors, student must successfully complete a background check (provided by the organization or St. Olaf College)
Must have the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form completed.

Getting Involved

Jobs are posted on the Oracle Job Posting Board. Students apply and interview for the position.
Selected students will receive a job offer and communicate with site supervisors to coordinate their start date, schedule and other details.
The ACE office checks eligibility and necessary documentation.
Once approved and a time card has been issued, students are ready to report to work.

Transportation

If you are concerned about finding a means of transportation to your position, there are a few different ways you can get around. Please check out this website!

FAQ

What is the pay rate for CBWS positions?
All CBWS positions are paid $15/hour.

What are the expectations for me as an employee?

You are expected to behave in a professional manner by dressing appropriately for your workplace and developing a positive relationship with your supervisor and other student employees in your office/department. Arrive to your shift on time and ready to begin your duties. Contact your supervisor AND Alyssa Melby (melby1) in advance if you are unable to work your shift/find a suitable substitute if necessary. CBWS students will also have ongoing training throughout the year.

What if I need/want to change jobs? Can I have multiple jobs?

To change jobs, it is your responsibility to find a new position on campus through the Oracle Job Posting Board. You must notify your current supervisor at least two weeks in advance before leaving your current position. To begin your new position, you need to apply, accept a job offer, and be issued a time card.

Sometimes students have to work multiple jobs on campus to fulfill their work award, depending on how many hours are available for each job. You can combine jobs however you would like, as long as you stay within your work award.

Can international students work in CBWS jobs?

Only U.S. citizens and those with permanent residency who have completed the FAFSA are allowed to work in CBWS positions since they require a federal or state work award.

Can I work from my dorm or when I go home on breaks?

Please ask your supervisor if working from your dorm or working from home makes sense for your role. Working from home is limited to those who will be in residence in the state of MN.

I’m having trouble finding a CBWS job. What do I do?

Check the online student employment website, as it updates frequently. If you still are struggling, please reach out to Alyssa Melby (melby1@stolaf.edu) or stop in the Smith Center for Global Engagement (Tomson Hall 380).

Who should I contact with questions about time cards or pay?