Empire State Service Corp and Community Work Study Scholars

Architecture graduate student Madeleine Sutton is an intern with the Tool Library, in Buffalo, NY.

Community Work Study Scholar Program is an experiential learning program for University at Buffalo students who are eligible for the Federal Work Study Program.  While the Empire State Service Corp offers similar opportunities, it is open to all students at the University at Buffalo.

What is the Empire State Service Corp Program?

Participating SUNY students engage in paid public service work for 300 hours over the course of a year. Assignments could include tutoring in high-need K-12 schools, taking climate action working with on and off-campus agencies, and support for regional food banks and SNAP outreach to address food insecurity.

Submit your application via the SUNY Empire State Services website.

On This Page

What is the Community Work Study Scholar Program?

Students interview for specific positions of their choosing and are placed with work assignments at nonprofit organizations in the Buffalo community. The goal of the program is to provide mutually beneficial relationships; nonprofit organizations receive ongoing support and UB students get real-world job experience and make connections with the local community members. 

Where Can I Work?

We have partnered with organizations in the past such as the The Tool Library and BootSector. Each year, we seek to add new community partners so be sure to check Handshake for our latest partnerships and job openings. Multiple positions are available, specific job descriptions can be found on Bullseye powered by Handshake.

How Do I Apply?

Applications are accepted on a yearly basis. You must apply on Bullseye powered by Handshake and be a U.S. citizen. We require your resume as well as your class schedule for the fall semester. Then, a Student Engagement staff member will reach out and schedule a 45 minute interview with a representative from Student Engagement as well as the nonprofit organization. 

Applications Now Accepted

The application process for the 2024-2025 Community Work Study program closes on Monday, September 30.

What is the Hiring Process Like?

Once you interview, you will hear back shortly from a Student Engagement staff member regarding your application. Upon being hired, you must complete all Federal Work Study paperwork, payroll and appointment information before starting work. 

Program Requirements

  • Have your own transportation to nonprofit organizations or be willing to utilize public transportation 
  • Meet weekly with your on-site supervisor  
  • Meet monthly with a Student Engagement staff member 
  • Meet bi-monthly with the Community Work Study Scholar cohort  

For more opportunities like this:

Student Engagement

Student Life

University at Buffalo
150 Student Union, North Campus
Buffalo, NY 14260
Email: Contact form

Phone: (716) 645-6469