Learn by doing, and earn while you learn.
At Paul Smith’s College, work has always been part of the educational experience. Every day, students apply what they’re learning by caring for forests, maintaining trails, preparing meals, supporting campus operations, and solving real challenges alongside experienced professionals.
The Work Experience Program builds on that tradition by giving students the opportunity to reduce their cost of attendance while gaining meaningful, hands-on experience that prepares them for life after graduation. More than a campus job, the program is an extension of the Paul Smith’s approach to education, one that develops technical skills, professional confidence, leadership, and a strong work ethic through meaningful contributions to the College community.
The Work Experience Program combines meaningful campus work with financial support and professional development.
- Apply. A limited number of positions are available each year through a competitive application process.
- Work. Students become members of a professional campus team and contribute to the daily operations of the College. Hours are agreed upon at the start of each semester.
- Earn a Work Experience Grant. Participants receive a tax-free grant toward their cost of attendance upon meeting program expectations.*
- Build Your Transcript. Participants also build a Work Experience Transcript that complements their academic transcript, giving employers a fuller picture of what they accomplished during college.
- Leave Prepared for What’s Next. Students leave having developed valuable workplace skills, received mentorship from experienced professionals, and lowered their cost of attendance.
*Grant award is contingent on successful participation in the program. Grant value is proportional to hours committed.
Students who participate in the Work Experience Program earn:
- Pre-tax Work Experience Grant
- Work Transcript
- Job-specific credentials (e.g., HVAC certifications)
- Faculty mentoring and supervision
- Meaningful responsibilities that contribute to the daily operation of the College
- Opportunities to build leadership, communication, teamwork, and technical skills
Participation in the Work Experience Program is competitive, with a limited number of positions available each year.
Step 1: Apply for Admission
If you are not currently enrolled, complete your application for admission to Paul Smith’s College and submit all required admissions materials.
Step 2: Submit a Work Experience Program Application
Current and prospective students will be invited to complete a separate Work Experience Program application. Applicants will be asked to describe their interests, what crews they would like to participate in, and why they would like to participate.
Step 3: Interview
Upon enrollment at Paul Smith’s College, applicants will participate in an interview with College staff to discuss their goals, availability, and interest in the program.
Step 4: Selection
Students are selected based on their commitment to the program, readiness for the responsibilities of the position, and overall fit. Because positions are limited, not every qualified applicant may receive an offer.
Step 5: Begin Your Experience
Selected students will be matched with a campus work team, complete program orientation, and begin working
My first day, we were out doing tree work at the Visitor Interpretive Center. That’s exactly what I’m learning in class. The program is definitely focused on the work I want to do.
Ben '28
Arboriculture & Landscape Management Major
Let's Get To Work
Submit a request for more information to learn more about the Work Experience Program.
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