Student Employees Propel University Recreation

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A University Recreation Intramural Sports official referees the flag football championship.

University Recreation employs more than 450 U of A students each year, making it one of the largest student employers on campus. Students fill positions as lifeguards, fitness instructors, intramural officials, graphic designers, outdoor trip leaders, facility supervisors and more than 28 other job titles. Student employees are important to University Recreation and play a vital role in the department's success.

Students will typically find openings during the middle of the semester as program directors prepare for the upcoming term. Currently, the department is interviewing approximately 180 applicants who will fill 56 positions in the areas of facilities, outdoors and marketing.  

 "We take pride in the fact that students want to work here, as evidenced by the amount of applications we receive," said Lindsay Smith, assistant director for marketing and public relations. "Our student employees are a valued and essential part of our department."

University Recreation positions serve as an extra-curricular experience for the student, assisting them in preparation for life beyond graduation.

"We recognize the need for intentional and purposeful employment experiences that not only complete the day to day functions of the job, but provide learning opportunities that are co-curricular, supplementing the classroom experience," said Jeremy Battjes, director of University Recreation and assistant dean for administration in the College of Education and Health Professions.

Not only are student employees taking advantage of the full co-curricular UREC development experience, they are succeeding academically as well. At the end of spring 2018, UREC student employees had an average GPA of 3.35. 

"Students at the University are seeking employment at UREC and positions are competitive," said Erin Butler, assistant director for assessment and staff development.

On-campus employment not only provides practical work experience, but also delivers financial assistance for students while pursuing a degree. University Recreation student employees earned more than $900,000 in wages during the 2018 fiscal year. Beyond hourly pay, UREC provides personal and professional development, specialized trainings, certifications, and promotional opportunities for student employees. 

Students interested in employment with University Recreation should familiarize themselves with employment information found here prior to the next main hiring period in February. Job openings can be found on the University of Arkansas Careers page. Specific questions regarding UREC employment should be directed to UREC Human Resources at urechr@uark.edu.