Community Based Work Study

Institute for Freedom and Community
The Svoboda Center for Civic Engagement
For Students
Community Based Work Study

Community Based Work Study (CBWS) allows eligible students to work with one of St. Olaf’s community partners and make meaningful contribution to local community life. The program provides financial aid assistance through real-world work experiences and personal and professional growth with community organizations.

Northfield College Tutors

Formerly the “America Reads and Counts”, the program include tutoring activities to K-12 learners at organizations or institutions that serves the public. This program collaborates with Carleton College to ensure unity of services for the Northfield community.

Off-Campus Community Service

Includes non-profit or government organizations that serve the public community (i.e. museums, public offices, charitable organizations, schools, etc.).

Eligibility and Requirements

Student must have been awarded either a Federal Work Study (FWS) or State Work Study (SWS) award types.
If working with minors, student must successfully complete a background check (provided by the organization).
Must have the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form completed.

“My CBWS job has been one of the most rewarding parts of my college experience. It’s helped me build real-world skills, connect with the younger community in meaningful ways, and feel like I’m contributing to something larger than myself. I’ve grown both professionally and personally through this role.“
—Yeymy Garcia ’27, Northfield College Tutor, Greenvale Park Elementary

Student with a shovel digging holes for tree planting at a Great Day Farm, Service Saturday 2025

Getting Involved

- Jobs are posted on the Oracle Job Posting Board. Students apply and interview for the position.
- The Svoboda Center checks eligibility and necessary documentation.
- Selected students will receive a job offer and communicate with site supervisors to coordinate their start date, schedule and other details.
- Once approved and a time card has been issued, students are ready to report to work.

Transportation

If you are concerned about finding a means of transportation to your position, there are a few different ways you can get around. Please check out this transportation website!

Finding CBWS Job Postings

Utilize the Oracle Job Posting Board and search using the term ‘CBWS’ for Community-Based Work Study.

You are expected to behave in a professional manner by dressing appropriately for your workplace and developing a positive relationship with your supervisor and other student employees in your office/department. Arrive to your shift on time and ready to begin your duties. Contact your supervisor AND Erin Zimmerman (golden8@stolaf.edu) in advance if you are unable to work your shift/find a suitable substitute if necessary. CBWS students will also have ongoing training throughout the year.

To change jobs, it is your responsibility to find a new position on campus through the Oracle Job Posting Board. You must notify your current supervisor at least two weeks in advance before leaving your current position. To begin your new position, you need to apply, accept a job offer, and be issued a time card.

Sometimes students have to work multiple jobs on campus to fulfill their work award, depending on how many hours are available for each job. You can combine jobs however you would like, as long as you stay within your work award.

“Although I’m a St. Olaf student, I used to feel like I didn’t have a personal connection to the Northfield community, but having a CBWS job has allowed me to connect with the community and feel like I am an active community member.“
—Demi Tamayo ’25, CAC Food Access Assistant

“The CBWS role is a great opportunity to work closely with students, help them succeed, and give back to their community. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to make a difference and contribute to education while building valuable experience.“
—Ruth Feleke ’26, Northfield Colleges Tutor, Greenvale Park Elementary