When students think of work study, they might envision hours cooped up in a cafeteria or mail room. But there are so many more jobs available! Welcome to “Knights at Work,” new a feature looking at work study jobs through the eyes of the students who perform them.

For the first installment, we talked to Jeff Slater, senior chemistry major.

What is your work study position?
I work as a lab assistant in the chemistry department. I set up lab equipment before students come in, assist with the procedures and answer any questions they might have. I also help clean up and take inventory of equipment and chemicals.

How did you get the job?
I got the job by speaking with the head of the chemistry department. She helped me apply and fill out all the necessary paperwork.

What’s your favorite part about your work study position?
I love the wide array of tasks I get to take part in. I also enjoy spending time with all of the chemistry professors outside of class.

What’s your least favorite part about your work study?
There really aren’t many downsides to the job. As long as time management isn’t an issue, there’s no reason someone in the job couldn’t succeed.

How will this position help you prepare for your future?
The experiences I’ve had while working set me apart from others in my class. I’ve become familiar with a lot of details that many won’t learn in class.

Also, because of the close relationship I’ve developed with the people in the department, I learn a lot about how others in my field made it to where they are today. They have a lot of advice to offer to students about what to look into and what you need to know going into the work force.

Learn all about Gannon’s chemistry program here.