In just five short years, McMaster's McWork Program has more than quadrupled the number of students that it helps to find summer jobs on campus.

The summer work-study program for qualified students was created in 1997 through a partnership between the Ministry of Colleges and Universities and McMaster University. Today it is one of the largest summer work-study programs in Ontario.

“At the start, there weren't very many jobs on campus for students. There were about 80. It was very limited,” states Jill Davren, a financial aid adviser with the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships and the program's co-ordinator.

Students must demonstrate financial need in order to be considered for the program. In 2001, 601 students applied to the program and 488 were approved — an 81 per cent approval rate.

This summer, there are 378 McWork jobs on campus and 90 per cent are full-time.

Students are employed on campus throughout the summer. Davren explains the large volume of summer jobs for students. “We felt the best way to spend our money is in the summer. During the year, we have Ontario Work Study and other programs to assist students.”

While the Library, athletics & recreation, and physical plant are the biggest employers, jobs range from office duties to lawn care to research assistants.

Both students and employers must complete an application process to qualify for the McWork Program. In January, the financial aid advises departments on campus of the opportunity to employ a student under this program. After submitting an application, offices may be approved to hire a McWork student who is then paid through the program.
In assessing student applications, counsellors review either a student's Ontario Student Assistance Plan application or a personal budget form to determine program eligibility. Students do not have to be receiving OSAP to qualify. Approved students are not guaranteed a job, but only McWork students can fill McWork jobs.

Advertising for positions begins the start of March, and allows students to apply to, and possibly find, jobs before the academic year ends. “Knowing that they have a job beginning as soon as classes end puts students ahead and takes away worry,” states Davren.

Out-of-province and international students also qualify for certain McWork positions. Davren adds that the international program is very small, “but it is beneficial to those students who qualify because they're only allowed to work on campus.”

Tim Shannon, who graduates from kinesiology this year, has been employed by McWork throughout his education at McMaster. He has worked in student financial aid and scholarships and athletics & recreation. “My McWork jobs provided me with a great avenue to cover all my summer expenses, and to experience the University. It opens opportunities for me.”

While experience is required for most full-time jobs that students apply for after graduation, it's hard for students to find that experience while at university. The variety of positions through the McWork Program ensures that students will have opportunities to gain invaluable knowledge in a field of their choice. “We offer great experiences for student's resumis,” explains Davren. “The jobs are not menial. They are meaningful.”

TOP PHOTO: Students Nick Owen (left) and Adam Ouelette (background right) work on groundskeeping in front of the art gallery

BOTTOM PHOTO Josh Krywionek (right) pitches in with Ouelette(left)