Working Through College: Can It Still Be Done?

June 04, 2025

Many high school and college-aged students have heard the “when I was your age” tales told by their parents and grandparents. Along with all the walks to school through the snow being uphill, and home purchases on one modest salary, there is the rumor that in the days of yore, a student could work through college to pay their tuition. Is this a long-gone possibility, having vanished along with sub-$1.00 gasoline and cheap eggs? Or can it still be done by today’s students?

Although it may seem like a myth, it’s actually something that can be done! Granted, it may take a bit more planning today—but it’s still doable for the prudent student.

How Much Will Tuition Cost Me?

The first thing to consider is tuition costs. The price tag for Missouri’s largest public four-year universities can run you well into five figures per year. Not to mention housing, lab fees, activity fees, textbooks and supplies. But at STLCC, students can save upwards of $11,000 per year—a 75 percent savings compared to other public options.

At STLCC, the in-district cost is $122 per credit hour. This has remained the same for several years while tuition prices throughout the country continue to go up and up.

And what about those fees? At STLCC, nearly all fees are built into the cost of the class.

You can get into the finer details or check out our price calculator at stlcc.edu/tuition.

Finding More Ways to Pay for College

Paying for college doesn’t have to be stressful—there are lots of ways to get help! Scholarships, grants, and work-study programs can make a big difference and help you save money.

At STLCC, there are many financial aid options to explore. You can find all the details on the Enrollment Services page, which explains how to apply and what’s available.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Scholarships are free money you don’t have to pay back. Some are based on good grades or special talents.
Grants are also free money, usually given to students who need financial help.
Work-study programs let you work part-time (often on campus) to earn money while gaining job experience.

To get started, you’ll need to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This form helps you qualify for federal and state aid, including loans, grants, and work-study jobs. You can also look into financial aid programs just for Missouri students.

It’s also smart to make a budget. Think about how much you’ll spend on things like tuition, housing, food, and transportation. Then compare that to how much you might earn from a job or financial aid. This helps you make smart choices about your money.

STLCC is here to support you every step of the way—so you can focus on your classes and your future!

Finding the Right Job While in College

Picking the right job while you're in school is super important. You want something that helps you earn money but still gives you time to focus on your classes.

Part-time jobs in places like stores or restaurants are great because they usually have flexible hours that can fit around your school schedule. These jobs can teach you useful skills too!

Thanks to the internet, there are also more remote jobs now—so you might even be able to work from home. That can make it easier to balance school and work.

If you're going to STLCC, you're in luck! The college has jobs right on campus, which means you don’t have to travel far to get to work. It’s a great way to earn money and stay connected to your school.

To find a job, check out STLCC’s Handshake page. It’s a website that helps students connect with employers who are looking to hire.

Balancing Work and School: Tips for Success

Going to college while working a job can be tough—but with the right plan, you can do both and succeed! The key is learning how to manage your time in a way that works for you.

Start by figuring out what’s most important each day. Use a planner or a calendar app on your phone to keep track of your classes, work hours, and study time. Breaking big assignments into smaller steps with deadlines can make them feel less stressful and easier to finish.

If you have a job, talk to your boss about your school schedule. Many employers are willing to be flexible if they know when you’re available. Try to set up a regular study routine that fits around your work hours so you can stay on top of your schoolwork.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Your professors and academic advisors are there to support you. They can give you advice and help you stay focused on your goals.

Smart Money Moves for College Students

College is a big step—and learning how to manage your money now can help you stay on track for the future. The good news? There are lots of ways to pay for school without taking on a ton of debt.

Start by checking out all the financial help you can get. Look into scholarships, grants, and work-study programs at schools like STLCC. These can help cover your costs without needing to borrow as much money.

Next, get into the habit of budgeting. Keep track of what you spend and look for ways to save—like eating out less or buying used textbooks. Try to save a little each month to build an emergency fund. Even small amounts add up and can help if something unexpected comes up.

As you get closer to graduation, think about your future. Look for jobs that offer benefits like retirement plans, and keep learning new skills to grow your career and income. Planning ahead now can lead to a more stable and successful future.

Working while going to school isn’t always easy, but it can really pay off. It helps cover your expenses and teaches you important life skills like time management, problem-solving, and how to be professional at work.

You’ve got what it takes to succeed—so let’s make it happen!