College is a great time to find a job that’s relevant to your future. You can develop a range of skills through on-campus jobs, internships, or research positions. Here’s what a few of our students have done:
1. Researching rare diseases
Kali Reese has spent many hours in the lab of professors Amy Wilstermann and Rachael Baker. She studies proteins, genes, and mutations as part of the award-winning Rare Disease Research group at Calvin.
“We are called to be stewards of all God’s creation. Looking beyond more common diseases helps us reach out to those who are often overlooked. As a Christian community, we should work to empower people with rare diseases.”
2. Managing a team at the campus call center
Lillian Spackman worked as both a caller and a manager at Calvin’s Phonathon, managing a team of students calling donors to support the Calvin Annual Fund.
“It was a great opportunity to improve some of my soft skills as I began a leadership role my second semester. I learned how to coordinate teams and communicate well with my supervisor. And I found I had an aptitude for administration.”
3. Interning at an engineering firm
Stephen Ng interned at DornerWorks, Ltd., an embedded systems engineering firm.
“I helped solve clients’ engineering problems by writing code and doing testing for several projects. I went beyond learning about software and hardware—I learned how companies actually work and the importance of organizational communication.”
4. Helping Calvin athletes
Lee Berents works as a building manager at the Spoelhof Fieldhouse Complex. As part of his job, he provides support to athletic teams, manages equipment, and keeps our facilities in peak condition.
“I have an inside look at how athletic facilities and college sports are run. This job has better prepared me for a future in sport management.”
Ways to earn a paycheck as a Calvin student
- On-campus jobs: Over 1,500 on-campus jobs offer flexible hours, supportive supervisors, and a huge range of options.
- Research: Undergraduate research is well-funded in many majors at Calvin. Dig into some of the world’s challenges alongside a Calvin prof.
- Internships: Many internships are paid, and most Calvin students—85 percent—end up with at least one during their Calvin career.
- Grand Rapids: This city boasts a growing economy, an entrepreneurial spirit, and walkable neighborhoods.