CSEP helps students make money

By Patrick Denison

deni0038@algonquincollege.com

At Algonquin, students who are in financial need are entitled to apply for the College Student Employment Program, or CSEP, a program that enables qualified students to work on campus. Once a student qualifies for the program, they can apply for job postings within the school.

CSEP students work in all different parts of the school, from IT and the computer help desk to restaurant and bar staff. It is a program that has been developed with the provincial government and since its inception has been very beneficial to students and the school at large.

 For students, the jobs enable them to combine their work and school lives. Many students juggle work and school, and complicated work schedules can cut into study time or affect their attendance. The school benefits from the program by increased student participation in all areas of college life.

Scott Glover, a marketing student, works as a marketing assistant and has helped organize several events for his department. “The CSEP program has made me a lot more organized, and really helped me use the skills I’ve learned. I’ve done everything from media analysis to putting up posters for events at the school.”

For Alex Hosselet, a business student, the program has been helpful because of the diversity of roles he has had to take on. Alex is one of seven student leaders who work at the student information desk. “I was originally recommended for the position of assistant student leader, and later I was placed at the info desk. The jobs I’ve had have really helped me build my references, and it’s nice to have a steady income while staying so close to school.”