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Being a train conductor allows you to take people and essential goods where they need to go, see the country, and get paid while doing it. In fact, a competitive salary is often one of the big draws of the field. But just how much does a train conductor make? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for a train conductor is $68,180.

If that salary sounds appealing, keep reading to learn what train conductors do, how much they stand to make in different states, and the pros and cons of the job.

What Is a Train Conductor?

If you’ve ever dreamed of yelling “all aboard” and taking the wheel of a train, then you may find satisfaction as a train conductor. This type of trade job is responsible for organizing and overseeing various activities within a railroad yard, industrial plant, or similar locations. They play a vital role in coordinating the actions of the train crew, whether on passenger trains or freight trains. Additionally, yardmasters take charge of reviewing train schedules and switching orders while ensuring smooth coordination among workers involved in railroad traffic operations, including train assembly, disassembly, and yard switching tasks.

Working as a train conductor can be stressful and requires attention to detail. However, introverts may find that they love this job as it requires minimum interactions with other people.

Recommended: 15 Entry-Level Jobs for Antisocial People

How Much Is a Train Conductor’s Starting Salary?

How much money does a train conductor make? According to the latest BLS data, annual salaries range from a low of $49,680, which is most likely what entry-level conductors earn, all the way up to $88,230 or more. As workers gain more years of experience, they can expect to see their salary increase. At the very least, they should always expect to make the minimum wage in their state.


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What Is the Average Salary for a Train Conductor?

While most people don’t focus their job search on trying to find the highest-paying job in their state, it’s a good idea to do salary research before pursuing a new career path.

So how much does a train conductor make per hour? Typically, train conductors earn a median hourly wage of $32.78, but that rate differs by state. Take a look at the following table to get an idea of what train conductors can earn in different states.

Median Train Conductor Salary by State for 2022
State	Annual Mean Wage
Alabama	N/A
Alaska	N/A
Arizona	$62,160
Arkansas	$67,170
California	$69,220
Colorado	$63,770
Connecticut	N/A
Delaware	$101,450
District of Columbia	N/A
Florida	$74,310
Georgia	N/A
Hawaii	N/A
Idaho	N/A
Illinois	N/A
Indiana	$74,240
Iowa	N/A
Kansas	$60,960
Kentucky	$58,320
Louisiana	$60,510
Maine	N/A
Maryland	$57,140
Massachusetts	N/A
Michigan	$50,500
Minnesota	$63,390
Mississippi	$55,040
Missouri	$67,190
Montana	$67,950
Nebraska	$67,970
Nevada	N/A
New Hampshire	$71,750
New Jersey	$78,300
New Mexico	N/A
New York	$68,960
North Carolina	$77,060
North Dakota	$72,650
Ohio	$62,350
Oklahoma	$68,170
Oregon	$68,510
Pennsylvania	$72,320
Rhode Island	N/A
South Carolina	$46,300
South Dakota	$65,110
Tennessee	$61,700
Texas	$70,520
Utah	N/A
Vermont	N/A
Virginia	N/A
Washington	$62,540
West Virginia	$55,000
Wisconsin	$69,780
Wyoming	$67,060

Source: BLS

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Train Conductor Benefits & Job Considerations

Most train conductors work full time and are eligible for employer benefits on top of their salary. Benefits like health insurance and paid time off can be valuable and increase the overall value of a compensation package.

Savvy employers know that alongside offering a competitive salary, a robust benefits package can attract and retain top talent. Common employee benefits that train conductors may expect to see include:

•   Health insurance

•   Dental insurance

•   Vision insurance

•   Flexible spending account

•   Paid time off

•   Employee assistance program

•   Life and disability insurance

•   Retirement savings plan

Pros and Cons of Train Conductor Salary

Like any job, working as a train conductor comes with a unique set of advantages and disadvantages that are worth being aware of.

Pros

•   Minimal educational requirements, making it accessible to a broader range of individuals

•   Job training is provided by employers, allowing for on-the-job skill development

•   Regular rest hours are enforced, ensuring a reasonable work-life balance

Cons

•   Federal licensure requirements add an additional step to the process

•   The job can be physically demanding, especially in challenging weather conditions

•   Work weeks may extend beyond the standard 40 hours, leading to potential overtime hours

•   Irregular scheduling is common, which can make it challenging to maintain a consistent routine

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

The Takeaway

Considering a job as a train conductor? Though rewarding, this line of work is also high stakes, and anyone considering this career path needs to be prepared to take the responsibility seriously. It’s also important to understand what the position typically pays and what your earning potential could be. The median annual salary train conductors earn is $68,180, but train conductors with many years of experience can expect to earn more than this.

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FAQ

What is the highest paying railroad job?

If someone is looking to make the most money possible as a train conductor, they may want to consider working for their state government. According to BLS data, train conductors who work for state governments earn a median salary of just over $100,000 per year.

Do train conductors make six figures?

How much does a train conductor make per year, and can they earn a six-figure salary? The good news is that it is possible to earn six figures as a train conductor. While the average train conductor earns a median salary of $68,180, train conductors employed by state governments earn a median of $100,770 each year.

What is the average age for a train conductor?

Many people find fulfilling careers as train conductors at all different ages. That said, the average age for a train conductor is 41.

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Photo credit: iStock/Laser1987

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Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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If someone has a love of animals and is looking to embark on a rewarding new career path, they may consider becoming a vet tech. While earning potential is not the only reason to pursue a career, it’s helpful to get an idea of a possible salary range before working towards a career as a vet tech. So, how much does a vet tech make? According to the latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for a vet tech is $36,850.

Read on to learn more about how much vet techs make, how salaries vary by state, and what this type of job entails.

What Is a Vet Tech?

Vet techs, also known as veterinary technologists and technicians, work in veterinary clinics and hospitals, under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. A vet tech can help with a wide variety of tasks around the office, such as obtaining patient case histories, collecting specimens, assisting in diagnostic and surgical procedures, and preparing animals and equipment for surgery. Other vet techs tasks may include:

•   Ensure humane care of animals

•   Provide specialized nursing care

•   Bathe and groom animals

•   Expose and develop X-rays

•   Collect and perform laboratory tests

•   Restrain animals during exams or procedures

•   Provide client education

Working as a vet tech can be a good fit for introverts, as the role allows for a significant amount of one-on-one interaction with animals. However, it’s important to note that there will still be some degree of interaction with pet owners and colleagues.

Recommended: 15 Entry-Level Jobs for Antisocial People

How Much Is a Vet Tech’s Starting Salary?

How much money does a vet tech make? The answer to that question depends on many different factors, such as how much experience someone has.

The median annual wage for a vet tech is $36,850, but salaries can range from $28,370 to $48,100. Generally speaking, entry-level vet techs earn lower salaries at first, though they’ll likely earn at least the minimum wage.

The type of employer can also impact how much a vet tech earns. Junior colleges, colleges, universities, or professional schools, for instance, tend to pay more (around $46,780 per year) than social advocacy organizations (around $35,480 per year), according to the latest BLS data.


💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. An online budget planner can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.

What Is the Average Salary for a Vet Tech?

An annual salary is one figure to consider. But how much can a vet tech make an hour? The median hourly pay rate for a vet tech nationwide is $17.72 per hour, though that rate — and the annual salary — can vary greatly by state.

For example, the annual median salary for vet techs in California is $47,880, which is much more competitive than in, say, West Virginia, where the median salary is $29,850.

Median Vet Tech Salary by State for 2022
State	Annual Mean Wage
Alabama	$30,610
Alaska	$49,330
Arizona	$38,380
Arkansas	$30,000
California	$47,880
Colorado	$39,540
Connecticut	$45,110
Delaware	$45,270
District of Columbia	$50,130
Florida	$36,800
Georgia	$37,610
Hawaii	$41,110
Idaho	$36,550
Illinois	$39,950
Indiana	$37,500
Iowa	$36,790
Kansas	$35,170
Kentucky	$30,750
Louisiana	$28,000
Maine	$44,050
Maryland	$38,720
Massachusetts	$44,870
Michigan	$39,070
Minnesota	$39,980
Mississippi	$30,680
Missouri	$37,220
Montana	$36,160
Nebraska	$36,500
Nevada	$45,540
New Hampshire	$44,470
New Jersey	$45,140
New Mexico	$35,740
New York	$47,720
North Carolina	$37,450
North Dakota	$37,320
Ohio	$37,330
Oklahoma	$35,200
Oregon	$39,550
Pennsylvania	$39,220
Rhode Island	$37,890
South Carolina	$37,410
South Dakota	$38,060
Tennessee	$35,620
Texas	$33,680
Utah	$36,180
Vermont	$37,980
Virginia	$45,830
Washington	$49,940
West Virginia	$29,850
Wisconsin	$39,270
Wyoming	$34,470

Source: BLS

Recommended: Salary vs. Hourly Pay: How Their Pros and Cons Compare

Vet Tech Benefits & Job Considerations

On top of being paid for their labor, many vet techs also receive a suite of benefits that enhances their overall compensation package. Full-time vet techs often qualify for medical and dental insurance, as well as 401(k) retirement plans and paid sick days or vacation time.

Some unique benefits that come with working in this industry can also include discounted pet care or continuing education reimbursements.

Pros and Cons of a Vet Tech Salary

Before pursuing a career as a vet tech, you may want to consider the advantages and disadvantages associated with this career path.

Pros

•   Work with animals all day

•   Usually qualifies for health insurance

•   Can make a difference in a pet’s life

•   Fast-growing career field (projected to grow 20 percent from 2021 to 2031)

Cons

•   Physically demanding work

•   Potentially dangerous

•   Can be emotionally draining

•   May have to work nights, holidays, or weekends

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

The Takeaway

The median annual salary for vet techs is $36,850 per year. But as they progress in their career and gain specialties, these professionals can expect to earn more. Many people find working as a vet tech to be a fun and rewarding job, especially if they love animals. While it can be a hard job and may often be physically (and emotionally) demanding, it also provides opportunities to care for animals. And that can feel really good at the end of the day.

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FAQ

What is the highest-paid vet tech?

One question potential vet techs likely have top of mind is how much a vet tech makes? According to the BLS, the median annual wage for veterinary technologists and technicians is $36,850. But it’s possible to earn more than $48,100 per year as a vet tech.

Is vet tech a stressful job?

Being a veterinary technician can be a demanding and sometimes stressful job. They often work in fast-paced environments, handle emotional situations with owners, and may encounter challenging cases or emergencies. However, the fulfillment of helping animals and the satisfaction of making a positive impact can also make it a rewarding career.

What state pays the best for vet techs?

How much someone stands to earn as a vet tech depends on a couple of different factors, including where they live. The District of Columbia pays vet techs the most, with median salaries reaching $50,130. Vet techs in Washington state ($49,940) and Alaska ($49,330) earn the next best salaries in the countries.

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Photo credit: iStock/AnnaStills

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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An internshipship is an opportunity to work in a field that interests you, gain valuable work experience, enhance your college resume, and possibly even earn some extra money.

While internships are more commonly available to college students, it may be possible to get an internship when you’re still in high school.

Read on to learn more about high school internships, including how they work, their pros and cons, and how to find one.

What Is the Purpose of an Internship?

An internship is a temporary position that’s often related to a student’s academic field of study or career interests. It offers students a chance to apply lessons learned in the classroom in a professional setting, while also developing additional skills. Internships also give students an opportunity to make connections in their field of interest and determine if they want to pursue further study and a career in that area. Internships also give employers the opportunity to discover and develop future talent.

💡 Quick Tip: Some lenders help you pay down your student loans sooner with reward points you earn along the way.

The Duties of an Intern

The duties of an intern vary from job to job. For example, those interning at a doctor’s office might shadow medical professionals and take notes on patient visits. Those interning at a marketing firm might sit in on marketing meetings and assist in any communication needs.

An internship experience can be somewhat similar to an entry-level employee position. However, there is typically an educational component. The point is to learn more about the career path, not just get coffee or file the office mail (though you may be asked to do this, too).

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Pros and Cons of High School Internships

There are plenty of pros when it comes to getting internship experiences in high school. For one, an internship allows you to learn about a particular career path without having to commit to a lifelong job.

Learning about a path early on could help you determine whether you want to go to college (rather than directly enter the working world) and help you decide what you’d like to study in school.

Another pro of completing an internship in high school is gaining new experiences and skills. An internship allows you to learn from professionals and add relevant skills to your resume. This can give you a leg up in applying for jobs in the future.

And, of course, all this experience and new learning make for excellent items to add to any potential college applications.
A potential downside to seeking an internship in high school is that they can be hard to find. In addition, the position may not be paid, and might be time-consuming, taking time away from other obligations like homework, studying for SATs, and applying to college.)

Recommended: What is the Hardest Year of High School?

Finding the Right Internship

Finding the perfect internship is a wholly personal experience. A good first step is to consider your interests in both the near and far term. By thinking about career paths you might be interested in, you might identify internship opportunities around you.

However, not every young person knows, or believes they know, exactly what they want to do in the future. But you may have a general interest. For example, if your favorite class is English, an internship at a local newspaper may make sense. If you’re interested in nature, an internship with a local parks and recreation group may make a good fit.

If you’re a high schooler, make a shortlist of interests and sit down with a parent or guardian to identify careers that may fit within these bounds.

Next, it’s time to identify a few companies you might be interested in interning with. Search around for companies near you that may be taking interns. From there, check out career pages on the individual companies to see if they have internship listings. If they don’t, try emailing the company to get in touch with the human resource (HR) department to see what may be available.

One quick tip: While researching and reaching out about internships, make sure to stay realistic about the time commitment. If an internship takes place during the school year, you may only be available in afternoons. Ensure the hiring manager knows the hours you’re available before committing to any long-term work.

Recommended: 10 Ways to Prepare for College

Resources to Find Internships in High School

While there isn’t any centralized listing location for internships for high school students, there are still plenty of places to find information on opportunities.

Schools: You can reach out to school resources like guidance counselors, principals, and individual teachers who may know of companies worth looking into.

Individual companies: Again, seek out information from company websites and reach out to human resource departments to see what may be available.

Job search websites: Check out job search websites, such as Linkedin and Indeed, and search for “Internships in [specific field here].” Make sure to search by location to ensure the internship is nearby.

Friends and family: This is the simplest tip — just ask around. Friends and family members are the ultimate social and work network. Make it known you’re looking for an internship and ask people for their advice on just where to look.

Recommended: College Planning Guide for High School Students

Questions to Ask Before Accepting an Internship

After figuring out your interests, asking your network, and finding an internship opportunity, you may think the work is done. However, there are still a few more questions to ask.

Before accepting an internship offer, make sure to ask about the full details. What are the hours? What can you expect to learn while on the job? What are the specific job duties and how will you be evaluated along the way? Will there be opportunities for mentorship? And finally, one of the most important questions: Is the internship paid?

💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

Paid vs. Unpaid Internships

Scoring a paid internship isn’t a guarantee, but it’s not a completely far-fetched idea either. If a paid internship isn’t available, you can always ask about an exchange for class credit. Unpaid internships are a hotly contested issue so just make sure to do whatever feels right and comfortable for your situation.

Also keep in mind that even a paid internship likely won’t pay enough to make a major dent in your college expenses (though it can help).

If you’re concerned about how you and your family will pay for the cost of tuition, a good first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with your family. This will let you know if you are eligible for financial aid, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans. If those do not cover your costs, you may also consider private student loans.

Private student loans are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind, though, that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment plans and deferment or forbearance — that automatically come with federal student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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College can be one of life’s biggest investments. And, earning a degree or certificate is an important step forward down many career paths.

Many students work to cover expenses and gain on-the-job experience while furthering their education. Balancing the competing demands of coursework and a job, however, can be a challenge. For some learners, taking online classes while working is one way to fit school into an already packed schedule.

Online classes allow you to study virtually anywhere, not just colleges or trade schools located in your area. In addition, pre-recorded classes enable you to fit your coursework into evenings, weekends, or whenever your work schedule allows.

However, the quality of online programs can vary widely. And, getting a degree online may not allow you to make as many professional and personal connections as an in-person college experience.

Read on to learn more about taking online classes while also working full-time, including the pros and cons, and strategies for juggling the demands of schooling alongside holding down a job.

Pros of Taking Online Classes

Given the time and financial investment that earning a degree can require, it can be helpful to weigh different schooling options before deciding whether to pursue an in-person education, online classes, or some hybrid of the two. Online classes can have some distinct advantages.

Here’s a look at some potential pros of working towards a degree or certificate online.

Having a Flexible Schedule

Traditionally, college and graduate school courses meet once or multiple times per week throughout a semester or summer/winter session. The length of class time varies too. For example, large lectures may only span one hour, while once-per-week seminars could run for two or three hours.

If you’re taking a full-time course load, which usually constitutes a minimum of twelve credit hours, you’ll have to coordinate these blocked-out class hours around your existing work schedule.

As a result, in-person learning (where students are expected to be in class at a set time each week) is not always feasible if you plan to work and study at the same time.

If you work full-time, online classes can come with added flexibility. After all, online courses are often facilitated through pre-recorded lectures, streaming video tutorials, self-guided activities, and reading that can be done on a student’s timeframe.

In some cases, online classes do still include a certain number of live lectures or learning activities (typically hosted via streaming video) that enrolled students are expected to attend.

In those scenarios, you might need to arrange your work schedule so you’re not on the job during the times when live online classes convene.

Naturely, most online classes still assign homework, so you’ll also need to consider when you’ll fit in independent reading, projects, and studying. However, online degree programs and classes often offer a higher level of scheduling flexibility, allowing you to “attend class” and study at times when you’re not working.

Maintaining Location Independence

There are thousands of colleges and universities across the United States, but probably only a handful near your home or place of work. While taking classes as a commuter student might be logistically possible, sticking to programs hosted by local universities can limit your choice of faculty and subject areas.

Additionally, it’s possible that local options aren’t the top-ranked in a given field — and might not even offer specific degrees or pre-professional certificates.

On the flip side, the only location required for taking online classes while working full-time is a reliable internet connection and a comfortable study space. Online classes also save time traveling to and fro a campus, giving you more time to juggle post-secondary studies alongside your regular job.

Possibly Lower Living Expenses

Tuition is only part of the equation when calculating the total cost of attending college. Some universities may require students to live on campus for one or more years, which could carry dining hall and other fees (in addition to the base cost of living in a dorm).

Students attending four-year public universities can expect room and board to run, on average, $11,520 a year, according to the Education Data Initiative. Opting for an online degree program can help bypass some of these additional expenses.


💡 Quick Tip: Private student loans offer fixed or variable interest rates. So you can get a loan that fits your budget.

Cons of Taking Online Classes

In addition to online learning’s merits, there are some potential cons to think through when evaluating taking online classes while working full time.

Not Every Degree or Major is Available

Colleges across the U.S. offer a wide array of majors and types of degrees. Online programs, on the other hand, tend to be more limited. So whether or not you can take online classes while working will depend, in part, on your chosen field of study.

For online bachelor’s degree programs, majors focused on business and health professions are among the most commonly available. Students interested in earning a master’s degree online in business or healthcare are in luck as well. There are also opportunities to enroll in graduate programs in education, engineering, criminal justice, and various social sciences entirely online.

Other majors and degrees, especially those that require in-person lab time or hands-on apprenticeship, such as culinary arts or chemistry, might not translate as well to an online format.

Recommended: Return on Education for Bachelor’s Degrees

Limited Networking Opportunities

Attending college in person can provide opportunities to make friends and build relationships with professors. Building a deep social and professional network while in school can help you find internships and jobs after school ends.

Taking online classes, however, can make it more challenging to connect with professors and fellow students. That being said, it’s still possible to make a strong impression on professors and peers through course assignments, presentations (whether individual or group), and written correspondences.

If you are planning on taking online classes while also working full-time in the same field (e.g., a nurse or a teacher studying for an extra certification in those professions), this potential networking disadvantage may be less of a concern — since you can still connect with fellow professionals on the job.

Strategies for Taking Online Classes

Whether you just graduated high school or are returning to the classroom after years of working, being prepared can help you get the most from your online classes — and, ideally, help to create a healthier work-life balance. Here are some key ways to prep for working full time and going to college.

Making a Schedule and Sticking to It

The flexibility of online classes can feel liberating, but those readings, online discussions, and assignments still need to be completed. Keeping your work schedule in mind, it can be helpful to block out some non-work hours during the week or weekend just for studying and school assignments.

It may also be helpful to think about when to get school work done. If you’re not a morning person, it’s likely you won’t be cracking the textbooks at sunrise. If you find out that your present work-school schedule is hard to sustain over time, it’s perfectly okay to go back to the drawing board.

The important thing is to find a time-management system that works for the duration of the time you’re both working and studying full time.

Starting Small

Even if you feel confident and excited about returning to the classroom (virtual ones count, too), taking online classes while working full time may be a big adjustment.

Some online degree programs allow you to enroll as a part-time student, which can be a “trial-run” opportunity — allowing you to understand how demanding juggling school and studies can be (before paying full tuition).

Understanding how much time each online class will demand can help you to be realistic about how many classes you can take each semester without burning out.

Setting Goals and Rewarding Progress

Creating achievable goals at the beginning of each class or semester is one way to stay on track, grow as a student, and measure success. Attaching a reward to these periodic goals can help many learners to stay driven and engaged.

Whether you passed your first online class, completed a big group project, or got a key certification, you deserve to celebrate achieving your educational accomplishments.


💡 Quick Tip: Would-be borrowers will want to understand the different types of student loans that are available: private student loans, federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans, Direct PLUS loans, and more.

Paying for Online Classes

For some students, the cost of online education (after subtracting dorms, dining plans, and transportation) can be an additional determining factor. The individual cost of online degrees and certificates will vary significantly from school to school — including price differences between public and private university programs.

In some cases, online-only programs may cost less for enrolled students. In others, online classes are priced similar to their in-person counterparts.

Whether you opt to work and go to college at the same time, how to pay for college is likely a big question. Making a plan for financing your education is one step in figuring out how to take online classes while working full time.

Completing the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help you determine how much federal student aid (such as grants, scholarships, and federal loans) you are eligible to receive. You can also explore scholarship opportunities through universities, nonprofit organizations, and private foundations for additional funding.

Many students also borrow money through private loans to pay for advancing their education. These are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders and often may come with flexible repayment plans, allowing you to find a loan that fits your budget and financial plan. (It’s worth noting that federal student loans come with baked-in benefits, like income-driven repayment or public service loan forgiveness, that are not guaranteed by private lenders).

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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The COVID-19 pandemic shifted the landscape of internships, giving rise to more remote-only opportunities. Even as companies have gone back to in-person and hybrid work, many have made remote internships a permanent offering. As a result, you are not necessarily limited by geography when looking for a college internship. But are virtual internships valuable?

The short answer is, yes. However, there are some steps you may want to take to ensure you get the most you can out of the experience. Here are key things to know about remote college internships.

Finding Remote Internships

Colleges usually have information about internships, both those that are available during the school year and summer internships. Students can check in with their school’s career center and see what intel it has on remote internships.

Students who are looking for remote internships can also get in touch with those in the alumni organization, ask around in their personal networks, and see if their schools will be hosting any job fairs during the upcoming semester.

You might also check out the Virtual Student Federal Service, which matches students with projects from a variety of federal agencies. This program is virtual, students can be in charge of their timetable, and the commitment is 10 hours a week. The application period for the program is July 1-31 every year.


💡 Quick Tip: Some lenders help you pay down your student loans sooner with reward points you earn along the way

Creating a Home Office to Support Success

Working from home is a new experience for some people, so creating an environment that helps to maintain focus and health is key to success.

As with any office building, there are a few things that can be done to make the space healthier.

Those who will be spending most of the day in their home office may want to consider opening the windows, keeping the space clean, and investing in an air purifier.

A key piece of staying productive and reducing stress is having an organized space. When working from home, it helps to have a desk free of clutter.

Research has shown that maintaining an organized space helps with cognition, emotional health, and behavior. All of these factors contribute to how people perform at work.

Succeeding at an internship as well as at school could be challenging for students.

Setting boundaries for their work may help with prioritizing and prevent students from losing valuable study time.
Having set work hours can make it easier for students to turn “off” work mode and transition into study or relaxation mode.

Recommended: 3 Summer Jobs Ideas for College Students

Paying Attention to Health

Students should also be aware of the impact that working from home can have on their physical health.

Long hours on a computer, both writing papers and doing work for their internship, can take a toll.

To prevent eye strain, students can adopt the 20-20-20 rule. It goes like this: Every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

In addition to preventing eye strain, students may want to pay attention to their posture throughout the day.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends working in a neutral position that won’t strain joints and tendons, and changing positions, stretching, and walking throughout the day, as well as performing some tasks while standing.

Physical health isn’t the only kind that can be affected by spending long periods of time at home.

Some people have reported that working from home caused them to feel more stress, whereas others said it reduced stress. Since this varies, students will have to keep an eye out for mental well-being during a remote internship.

To take care of their mental health, students can implement routines like walking, meditating, and calling friends.

Recommended: Finding Free Money for College

Finding Value in Virtual Networking

Video calls are a great way to connect and network with others virtually.

Emails and phone calls are still important pieces of remote work, but with video calls, it’s easier to connect with remote co-workers and better understand them during meetings.

Nonverbal communication skills are essential to good communication.

This means that networking virtually is possible. Networking during an internship is important because internships have the potential to turn into full-time positions.

Asking colleagues to get together for a video chat to ask questions or better understand their position could improve the chance of being offered a job at the end of the internship.

Networking virtually takes planning and intentional communication, because coworkers can’t bond over lunch or chat at the water cooler.

Setting up a virtual chat to get to know colleagues better can demonstrate the ability to take initiative and how serious the intern is taking the position.

Recommended: A Guide to Post Grad Internships

Starting Off on the Right Foot

A virtual internship is going to work a bit differently from an in-person internship, which means students should be ready to ask a lot of questions.

Before beginning the internship, prepare a list of questions to ask the employer via email or video chat.

Asking questions can help students develop important leadership skills, so it’s a good habit to develop during an internship.

Starting an internship off right also involves setting up regular check-ins with a manager. They may do this already, but if not, it’s OK to ask for it to be implemented.

Receiving regular feedback can improve performance, and therefore help students get the most out of their internships.

Juggling studies and a remote internship may be intense, so part of being prepared is getting a calendar to track important dates and internship tasks.

Blocking off time in a calendar to focus on the internship tasks could prevent moments of burnout and overwhelm.

Brushing Up On the Tech

Before beginning a virtual internship, it could help students to get familiar with the common platforms that are used in remote work for communication, task management, file sharing, and online calendars.

Each workplace is going to use different programs; some may prefer Asana versus Trello when it comes to task management, and some may prefer Slack versus Basecamp for communication within the team.

There are tons of programs out there to make virtual work easier. Interns won’t be able to learn them all, but brushing up on what’s popular may ease anxiety and increase feelings of preparedness.

Recommended: Am I Eligible for Work-Study?

Documenting Your Success

It can be really easy to forget all that has been accomplished during an internship.

Most internships last a whole semester (or summer), and if students aren’t tracking what their tasks and accomplishments are, they may forget them.

This is important information for students to keep for both themselves and their managers.

Keeping things documented can help students easily add their accomplishments and new skills to their resume.

It will also make it easier for managers to write a letter of recommendation at the end of the internship.

With luck, the manager will remember the best of the accomplishments, but if they’re managing a large team it could be difficult for them to write a letter without reference points.

A letter of recommendation can help students once they enter the workforce and begin applying for jobs.


💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

Keeping the Financial Support Flowing

Many college internships are paid, but some are not. Either way, you’ll likely still need financial support to cover the cost of college — which usually goes well beyond tuition.

Your funding options include federal aid (including grants, scholarships, and subsidized student loans), savings, help from parents or others, and private student loans.

It’s generally recommended that students exhaust all options of federal aid (including federal loans) before moving on to private loans.

Federal loans come with benefits that students may not find elsewhere, such as income-based student loan repayment plans.

If you still have gaps in funding, you may want to apply for a private student loan. These are available from banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms are determined by the lender. Students who have excellent credit (or can recruit a cosigner who does) generally qualify for the lowest rates.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student Loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You should exhaust all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs. SoFi Private Student Loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, and applicants must meet SoFi’s eligibility and underwriting requirements. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information. To view payment examples, click here. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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