We estimate that at least 60 percent of UW-Madison students work during the school year, and that approximately 90 percent work during the summer.
Employment is an integral part of the educational process.
The two major motivators for students who work are the need to cover expenses and the need to enhance future career prospects. In addition, working can facilitate personal growth and help students acquire better time management and communication skills. Students with work experience usually gain an edge in applying for part-time employment while they are in school or in permanent employment after they graduate. The experience doesn't necessarily have to be in your major field. According to one expert, only 50 percent of graduates work in their major field, although it may be advisable to gain technical expertise before graduation through working in some fields such as journalism and advertising.