By Ashley Hunter

Working on campus helps students from all backgrounds, because of the diverse job offerings and the tasks the students are called upon to do. 

For most students, the college experience extends far beyond the classroom. Student employees are a vital part of the college ecosystem, contributing to its smooth operation, while gaining experience and financial independence. 

Aliceson Stranberg, sophomore of Newell, South Dakota studies Ag Business at Casper College. She is a work study student in the agriculture pavilion on campus. Aliceson is a busy student who is involved as a junior red angus director for the Red Angus Association and is on the Casper College livestock judging team. As a work study student, Stranberg feeds animals and helps with anything around the pavilion, and when all the work is done there is always time for homework. “It’s ag affiliated, I get to work with livestock, and get to work with people that have the same interests.” Stranberg said. She also explained that it is a comfortable environment to work in, where you can grow and learn more about the agricultural industry. In 10 years Stranberg sees herself graduating from Kansas- State, and wants to work along Purina feeds, being a feed nutritionist. Stranberg also eyes raising her own cattle with a family in either South Dakota or Kansas in the future. With being busy, she genuinely enjoys working on campus because she is able to do the things she loves while maintaining her grades.  

Dr. Frank Hodnett is an Instructor and academic chair in the agriculture department. Hodnett said that having student employees is helpful to the department because he gets to use students’ skills to help meet the department’s goals. By working, students learn from the experience of working, in a safe, and comfortable environment. “We couldn’t do what we do in this department without the students that work for us.” Hodnett said.“I feel like it helps us be able to give good recommendations and mentorships as they start in their chosen fields.”  Hodnett, also explained that the students are learning life skills that will serve them for the rest of their lives by just working on campus. 

Balancing two other jobs with the demands of a college life is often a new normal for students, and Bailey Whittle, a sophomore from Casper, Wyoming, is a great example of students who showcase their work ethic. Whittle studies elementary education; and works in the Continuing Education office in the Gateway Building, office 408. Whittle encourages students to work on campus because the people that you get to work with are amazing. “They are always willing to help, and they also make sure school is put before work.” Whittle said. Whittle explained that working on campus helps her stay involved on campus and has grown more as a people-person.

Caden Bright has never been one to shy away from a challenge. From working at Jersey Mikes, to working in Sub Connection, formally known as the “Sub Shop” on campus, his path has been anything but ordinary. Caden is from Casper, Wyoming and he studied business administration at Casper College and graduated in 2022. He loved the environment on campus so he decided to work in the sub shop. Students can find Caden having fun while making your sandwich by flipping bottles or holding conversations. Caden also works with Campus Ventures on campus, a club where students practice their faith and meet every Thursday on campus. Caden explained that working on campus can be crazy but that “students are always really patient and understanding.”Bright figured that working in the sub shop would help him stay connected  with students while making them sandwiches. Bright sees himself in 10 years settled down with a family in either Wyoming or Montana, working in a church or in student ministry. 

Working on campus seems to be beneficial for all students involved, even students like Caden Bright who have already graduated and strives to stay connected to the roots of student involvement.