Between the rising cost of goods, finding jobs and being a college student, there are plenty of reasons to be on a path of discovery at UTEP.  While there are many options at UTEP to help students with economic mobility, the university has decided to continue its partnership with Discover Financial Services.  

With the partnership being a year old, students will be able to continue getting more work experience as well as earn money to offset the cost of college. 

“To deliver on our mission of access and economic mobility, we need to use every tool at our disposal to reduce college costs and create educational experiences that prepare students for the world of work,” said John Wiebe, Ph.D., UTEP Provost and Vice President for academic affairs. “This model allows us to do both at the same time.” 

UTEP credits the National Nonprofit Education at Work (EAW) a nonprofit that helps students gain real-world experiences with major employers. EAW partnership allows UTEP students to work on behalf of Discover Financial Services.  

“At Discover, it is our mission to help people spend smarter, manage debt better, and save more to achieve a brighter financial future. This partnership builds on that mission by helping students advance their formal education while learning important job skills,” said Tracy Hedrick, Discover Financial Services vice president of card operations. “We are excited to invest in these students while they are pursuing careers in their field of study and building brighter financial futures.” 

Apart from gaining real work experience, students will also develop resume-ready skills, earn a wage, have flexible hourly work, while also receiving up to $5,250 per year of employer-paid tuition assistance. This has helped a lot of students cover the cost of college, as well expand their skills in the job market. 

“My experience with this job is learning about confidence, control, and patience,” Jocelyn Martinez, a student who has experience working under Education at Work, said. “Discover even helps students with a script at hand. All I have to do is reach out and redirect the customers. I think it’s a great opportunity, not only for students but also for those who are interested in the financial field.” 

 There will be times when students will have to use their problem-solving skills to help customers in need, such as directing them to the correct person to make transactions more manageable.  

For newer students or returning students on campus, having this option to work can be beneficial in the long run. Not only are students focusing on studying, but some financial aspects are covered as well, increasing the chances of success post-graduation.  

“This job is great for someone who is very open to people, especially when it comes to answering to clients,” UTEP student Andres Galvan said.   “I have had this preoccupation of finding a job with a flexible work schedule, I think that by trying to work here on campus, it can help students to not only gain money but also gain experience.” 

While a lot of these skills can be out of a student’s comfort zone, it’s a great way to invest in their future. Students at UTEP can apply for opportunities with Education at Work and Discover Financial Services at educationatwork.org/student-jobs. 

Katy Ruiz is a contributor and may be reached at [email protected]