New Semester, New Beginnings
Hello to a new spring semester does not mean goodbye to the perks of a relaxing winter break. Time spent with family and friends becomes late-night study sessions and sleeping in becomes a reward at the end of a long week. Though winter break offered ease, it also provided time to prepare for a new semester with the determination for success. To prepare for school, I visit the University of Arizona BookStores and purchase all my school essentials like a planner, notebooks, writing supplies, and textbooks. It is the perfect one-stop-shop!
On the lower level of the BookStores, students can find the textbook department, along with technology and school supplies. Textbooks can be quite the expense, but did you know your Wildcat can save with options the BookStores provides? Students have the option to save up to 25% on used books, up to 70% on rented books, and up to 30% on eBooks. The Lowest Price Guarantee (excluding marketplace retailers) program is also offered through the BookStores. For free options, students can check the library to see if they have the textbook your student needs for check-out! However, most professors use Inclusive Access for their course materials. Inclusive Access provides students with the digital version of course materials. It goes live the first day of classes and is automatically charged to the Bursar's account. If a student chooses to purchase the course material elsewhere or physically at the BookStores, they must opt-out to avoid being charged any fees. The deadline to opt-out is dependent on the class, specific dates can be found here.
My favorite part of a new semester is the chance to make new friends and find a community on campus! Through employment, it is simple to achieve both as many student employment opportunities exist on campus. The best way to search for jobs is on Handshake. Handshake is the official job searching website for the university that Wildcats can look for volunteer, internships, and employment opportunities. When I was a freshman, I wanted to gain work experience and meet new people. I created a profile and uploaded my resume and cover letter to Handshake and applied for a Sales Associate position at the A-Store, a satellite location for the BookStores. Through that position, I learned problem-solving skills and how to effectively collaborate while having fun working with new friends. For improvement, I continued to look on Handshake for new opportunities within the company and was able to apply for my current position as the Brand Ambassador – Content Specialist in the Marketing department. The greatest benefit of working for the BookStores is developing skills that are sought by employers and are beneficial beyond a student position at the BookStores. Since I’m pursuing Marketing as a degree, it was a great opportunity for me develop my knowledge and skills! Not to mention, working at the BookStores provides a flexible work schedule to ensure school is prioritized. Eligible students are also offered textbook loans.
A new semester can be the beginning of new opportunities. Remember the BookStores is here for your Wildcat’s needs; from school supplies to employment, from gaining work experience to building lasting friendships! Encourage your Wildcats to join the team. You can let your Wildcat know of the BookStores’ work opportunities HERE.