Finding work while pursuing your Masters at Heller can be a great way to bring in some side income to help alleviate the expense of school. With that, I am going to (attempt) to offer some useful tips as you think about working while in school!
First, and this is by far the most important, review your class schedule! It is totally understandable to feel that you want to immediately get a job when you begin your studies, but it is so important to remember that you’ve come to get an education and that must always be your first priority. I highly recommend waiting an academic module before you start working as to give yourself time to understand what your schedule looks like, how difficult your classes are and how much time you need to devote towards reading and homework, and also how much personal time you have (always give yourself some time on your schedule – just you time, have fun, relax, re-group). Overall, reviewing your class schedule and building around it in a realistic way of what you need to be successful in your courses will help you track what time you may have to devote towards work without stretching yourself beyond what you are able to handle.
Second, if you are looking for a job on campus – give yourself plenty of time and grace in the process! Finding a job on-campus can be difficult as there are so many applicants since it is the most accommodating to your academic studies. While I recommend not working right away, if you are thinking about on-campus jobs I would recommend you begin your job search in the summer and when you arrive on campus. If you are thinking about getting a research position then definitely take some extra time to learn about the different institutes and research projects that the Heller school offers! There is a lot, so I might even reach out over the summer and during your first academic module to the researchers whom you find the most interesting! For off-campus work, make sure to sign-up and make use of Handshake (an online job board) under the Brandeis institution! Lots of opportunities are constantly available.
Last, but certainly not least, don’t limit yourself! Boston offers a lot of opportunities for career and professional development (job or no job). You go to a great school, make sure to leverage its unique mission and purpose! Please do not get discouraged, and acknowledge that job search can feel overwhelming. Take your time, don’t limit yourself, and explore what you find interesting regardless of if a job or opportunity does not align with your background! I have no background in Health Policy, however, I have had the greatest privilege to end up as a Research Assistant at the Schneider Institutes for Health Policy and Research at the Heller School. It has been the greatest privilege to learn something new, and I attribute my curiosity and desire to learn more towards success in landing this position.
Very final note, when you arrive I highly, highly, recommend you reach out to our career advisor Jasmine Waddel. Talk with her about where you hope to work someday, overall career plans, and get a resume and cover letter review. She’s an expert on career and professional development, so take advantage of it!
Hopefully, this is somewhat helpful!