Aug. 12, 2020

Undergraduate and graduate students at USD will have a new way to find on- and off-campus jobs thanks to a new program.

The university, in collaboration with its alumni association, has created the Work Scholars program to connect students with jobs, to network with alumni and other professionals, and to participate in career-building events.

“USD is committed to helping students connect with career opportunities early in their academic journey so that when they graduate, students are confident that they have the skills required by the workplace,” said Linda Halliburton, director of community and business partnerships at USD.

The Work Scholars program is partnering with the Vermillion Chamber & Development Company and Sanford Health in Sioux Falls to employ students in a variety of fields. Students must be considered full time, maintain a 2.5 GPA and commit to working at least 10 hours per week. They also will be able to participate in virtual Work Scholars activities and networking events each semester.

“Work Scholars can help build the region’s workforce by exposing students to careers and developing employment networks,” Halliburton said. “By getting students to work here early, we increase the odds that they will stay in South Dakota beyond graduation.”

Students in the Work Scholars program also will be paired with a USD alumnus who will act as a mentor throughout the year, offering advice to stay on track and get ahead.

“Work Scholars does more than match a student with a job,” said USD president Sheila Gestring. “The program provides career-building activities and meaningful mentoring that will be valuable to our students throughout their entire lives.”