When people think about Harvard, they often picture intense classes, endless studying, and maybe a few secret societies thrown in. But outside the lecture halls, a lot of us are doing way more, whether that’s joining clubs, playing sports, or, like me, working jobs on campus. Now, while most students might have one gig to help out with expenses or just to stay busy, I’ve somehow ended up juggling a few. Some of my friends joke that I’m a bit of a workaholic, and honestly, they’re not wrong. But I’ve found that working different jobs around campus has given me a really unique perspective on student life here, and I think it's worth sharing. 

Working at the Mignone Center for Career Success has honestly been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had on campus. I get to collaborate with career advisors, help plan events, and post job and internship opportunities to Crimson Careers, the student employment database. One thing about Harvard: your inbox will always be full. Every day, you'll wake up to a wave of emails about new opportunities, info sessions, and events happening all over campus. It can definitely feel overwhelming, and honestly, it’s totally normal to ignore some of them. But working at the career center has given me a behind-the-scenes look at what’s actually worth paying attention to, especially when it comes to career fairs and major recruiting events. It’s like getting the inside scoop before it hits everyone’s inbox.

My other job on campus is with the Office for the Arts at Harvard, where I work at Memorial Hall’s Sanders Theatre on weekends. It’s honestly one of the coolest gigs, I get paid to watch performances. From a cappella groups and dance recitals to student talent shows and full orchestras from around Boston, there’s always something happening. It’s become my favorite weekend routine, hanging out in this beautiful historic theater while taking in an incredible mix of music and talent. I mean, who wouldn’t love a job that pays you to enjoy live shows and experience the arts up close?

I also work as a Stock and Merchandise Associate for Harvard Student Agencies (HSA), which is fully student-run, and the best part is, the profits go directly toward supporting student financial aid. This job has been great not just for the experience, but for the people. I’ve gotten to know so many other students through HSA, and some of my closest friends now are folks I met just by working side by side during our shifts. It’s one of those places where you’re getting stuff done but also building real connections along the way.

And finally, working with the Harvard Admissions Office, giving campus tours, leading info sessions, and talking about student life, has been incredibly fulfilling. It gives me the chance to share a side of Harvard that people don’t always get to see or hear about: the real, everyday student experience. There’s something special about connecting with prospective students and helping them picture themselves here. It’s more than just facts and stats, it's about sharing the little things that make Harvard feel like home.

Balancing all these jobs might sound like a lot, especially during the school year, but I’ve figured out a schedule that really works for me. I set up my classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m. to around 1:15 p.m., which leaves my afternoons free. That’s when I put in a couple of hours at the Mignone Center for Career Success. Tuesdays and Thursdays are my Harvard Student Agencies days, working at the Harvard Shop. Then on weekend evenings and nights, I’m over at Sanders Theatre for performances. Since I prefer studying at night, I make sure to carve out time after dinner for assignments and review. Somehow, it all balances out. I also try to hit the gym at least four times a week or go for a run around the block, just to keep my energy up and clear my head.