UCLA labor researchers tell Assembly student workers face deep financial strain; propose expanded work‑study, internship tax credit

UCLA Labor Center researchers told the California State Assembly Committee on Economic Development, Growth and Household Impact on a stop of its “pocketbook” tour in Paramount that many college students who also work face chronic financial insecurity and health impacts that threaten graduation and the state’s future workforce.

The research — presented by Saba Wahid, director of the UCLA Labor Center, and former student researcher Hina Malik — drew on 139 survey responses and 26 in‑depth interviews of students attending public colleges and universities across Los Angeles County. The presenters said the data show a majority of student workers earn little, lack benefits, and work hours that interfere with coursework.

The findings matter because, the UCLA researchers said, students who must work long hours to survive are less likely to complete degrees or secure career‑aligned experience — a result with implications for California’s labor pipeline and economic competitiveness.

Wahid said the Labor Center’s shift to focus on “workers and learners” reflects concern that…