Working in the Division of Student Affairs prepares IU Indy students for success in any industry. With around 300 students holding over 35 different roles — front desk assistants, intramural officials, connection ambassadors, resident assistants (just to name a few) — Student Affairs is one of the top five student employers at IU Indianapolis. But students say it’s more than just a job.
“This student employee experience has given me a sense of responsibility in the work field,” said an intramural official. “I now understand my importance in a team and have developed more patience and stronger communication skills.”
Visual Communications Specialist Adair Allen (middle) poses with the graphic design interns that she supervises.
A recent survey of more than 120 of our student employees revealed just what kind of skills Jaguars are building on the job:
- 94% said they are now better able to communicate with people of a variety of backgrounds and roles.
- 97% reported improved teamwork and rapport-building skills.
- 96% agree they are better able to identify resources to solve problems or answer questions.
- 95% said they’ve made new friendships.
- 91% feel more connected to the IU Indianapolis community.
Many student employees also mentioned key areas of growth they’ve experienced including conflict resolution, leadership opportunities, public speaking and time management.
“This role also helped me build confidence in taking initiative and managing projects independently,” said a Health and Wellness Promotion graduate student employee.
“As a student staff manager, I have been given leadership and management opportunities that most people my age don’t have,” shared a student desk manager. “I believe this will give me a competitive advantage when job hunting.”
Whether they’re a friendly face at the front desk or supporting Jaguars behind the scenes, the numbers are clear: Our student employees are building the connections and professional skillset needed to stand out in the job field.
