Why USGS Students Like Their Jobs

In addition to stimulating work, ability to publish scientific work, opportunities to travel, a world-class reputation, public service, public safety, and promotional opportunities, the following are some other reasons students enjoy working for the USGS:

Careers in Water Resources

"If a student wants to pursue any sort of career that involves water resources, the USGS provides hands-on experience and training that one can not get anywhere else." Orlando Romero, Albuquerque, NM

Improve Computer, Verbal, & Written Skills

"Besides working in a friendly environment, the USGS has given me the chance to improve my computer skills and my verbal/written skills as well." Lan Pham, Oklahoma City, OK

Cutting Edge of Technology/Work Enhances Education

"The experience I have gotten here is invaluable because I am working on the cutting edge of the technology in my field. The field work, as well as the office work, enhances my education. Students learn skills here that they don't teach at school." Jason Kent, Fort Collins, CO

Friendly Atmosphere/Freedom to Grow/Flexible Hours

"Being a student employee at the USGS provides me with a friendly atmosphere, the freedom to grow and look into new exciting career opportunities, and the flexibility allows me to choose work hours to fit my busy school schedule." Christina H. Acosta, Lakewood, CO

Educational Encouragement/Genuine Caring

"Being a student at USGS gives me the ease and comfort of growing within an environment that encourages education and skill. The best contribution that the USGS has given me is the friendship of my coworkers. Without their genuine interest and care, the stresses of juggling work and school would have slowed down my strive for a great career in science." Venilda Castro, Menlo Park, CA

Supports Educational Goals/Good Pay & Benefits

"Many students need to work full-time or part-time and attend school to accomplish their educational goals. The USGS has recognized this area of difficulty and is giving today's student 100% support toward their educational goals. Their pay is good and benefits are available if you choose." Ralph Roland, Lakewood, CO

Flexible Schedule/Casual Dress/Career Goals Encouraged

"My flexible work schedule has helped me juggle school and work much easier than my previous jobs. Another privilege that I have enjoyed at the USGS is its casual dress code. Finally, I have enjoyed encouragement concerning my education and career goals." Angelica Talosig, Menlo Park, CA

Comfortable Environment

"The people are so nice and friendly. I find it easy to talk to all of the employees and my supervisors. Everyone is always happy and always willing to help you out in any way." Joanie Morgan, Reston, VA

Flexible Hours/Excellent Pay/Learning

"I like working for USGS because being a student full-time requires flexible hours. Here at USGS, the hours are flexible for a full-time student and the pay is excellent. The job also helps me to learn new and different things for future job skills. The work environment and people provide me with the encouragement and need for learning new things." Amanda Hill, Lakewood, CO

Experience

"I have gained great insight and knowledge on how to be professional for future jobs through the easygoing and friendly environment of USGS. I have the freedom to experience the work place as it really is and what comprises real work. The benefits are great. Workers are serious about work, yet still easy to work with." Kim Hamann, Reston, VA

Nice Work Environment/Flexible Schedule/Opportunity to Learn/Good Pay & Benefits

"I enjoy a comfortable work environment, a schedule that is flexible with school, and the opportunity to learn a lot about the way a business is managed at the USGS. I have learned how to work with others in a professional environment. The pay is very good, it is nice to have leave time, and the option of having benefits makes it easier for students living away from home." Brian Renicker, Lakewood, CO

Experience in Field of Study

"I was given the opportunities that allowed me to grow and specialize in my field of study and was told the importance of certain coursework related to my field that could benefit me in my career. Finding a place to work locally helped me financially, and I learned a lot while working on several scientific projects." Jason Masoner, Ada, OK

Improve Skills/Work Flexibility/Friendly Environment

"The USGS has given me the opportunity to improve my computer skills, and my flexible work schedule has helped me to attend school. Also, being a student employee at the USGS provides me with a friendly environment." Sonia Escalante, Lakewood, CO

Great Learning Opportunity

"I was able to work for the USGS through a cooperative agreement that was set up between the USGS and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. For me, working with the USGS was a great learning opportunity. I was able to gain experience in many different areas in the Water Resources Division by working with people involved in many different occupations and specialties." Kari Finley, Helena, MT

Good Experience/Benefits

"USGS gives you every opportunity to use what you know and learn more about what you don't. The hours are very flexible so that you can work around your school schedule. The fact that you can earn leave is great if you need a day off to study." Christa Lopez, Lakewood, CO