University of South Dakota Work Scholars Program
With USD's Work Scholars Program, you can receive financial support through paid on-campus work. Gain career-ready skills and start building connections that help define your time at the University of South Dakota.
Work Scholars Position Categories
Find the perfect fit for your skills, whether you’re leading the conversation, collaborating in a team, or driving results behind the scenes.
Coyote Connect | Engagement & Outreach Roles (Forward Facing)
These roles are highly interactive and focused on working with people. Students frequently engage with a range of individuals, including prospective and current students, families, faculty, staff, and external partners. Positions may involve collaboration across multiple departments and often serve as a visible representation of the university.
Examples of work:
- Campus tours, admissions or student services support
- Event planning and coordination
- Front desk or reception roles
- Peer mentoring or ambassador programs
Best fit for students who:
- Enjoy meeting new people and building relationships
- Are energized by communication and collaboration
- Are interested in careers involving public interaction (e.g., business, healthcare, education, communications, hospitality)
Helpful starting skills:
- Strong verbal communication
- Approachability and professionalism
- Adaptability in dynamic environments
- Basic organizational skills
Skills students will develop:
- Public speaking and presentation skills
- Customer service and conflict resolution
- Networking and relationship-building
- Leadership and teamwork across departments
Coyote Collaborate | Operations & Support Roles (Blended)
These roles combine interaction with others and independent, behind-the-scenes work. Students contribute to the day-to-day operations of a department while also supporting projects, data management, or administrative functions.
Examples of work:
- Administrative support and office coordination
- Data entry and reporting
- Assisting with internal projects or program logistics
- Supporting staff with scheduling, communications, or documentation
Best fit for students who:
- Enjoy a balance of people interaction and focused tasks
- Like organization, structure, and multitasking
- Are exploring careers that blend collaboration and technical/administrative work (e.g., business, healthcare administration, nonprofit work)
Helpful starting skills:
- Attention to detail
- Time management and reliability
- Written communication
- Basic computer and organizational skills
Coyote Create | Technical & Project Roles (Behind-the-Scenes)
These roles are primarily focused on systems, processes, or specialized tasks within a department. Students work closely with a smaller team and contribute through independent or technical work.
Examples of work:
- IT support, systems management, or tech troubleshooting
- Research assistance or lab support
- Content creation (digital, design, or marketing materials)
- Data analysis or database management
Best fit for students who:
- Prefer focused, independent work
- Enjoy working with systems, tools, or technical processes
- Are pursuing careers in technology, research, analytics, design, or similar fields
Helpful starting skills:
- Analytical thinking
- Comfort with technology or specialized tools
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to work independently
Skills students will develop:
- Technical proficiency and system navigation
- Critical thinking and analytical skills
- Project ownership and accountability
- Specialized, career-relevant experience
Work Scholars FAQ
Learn about eligibility, selection criteria, and how this program combines guaranteed on-campus employment with structured career development to support your success at USD.
How the Work Scholars Program Benefits You
This program allows you to earn money while gaining meaningful, resume-building experience, start career preparation early, and build connections across campus.
Questions?
Students should reach out to their assigned Admissions Counselor.
