Students who pay their own way through college are typically at a disadvantage. However, the right “earn and learn” model can put them ahead of the curve.

At Lorain County Community College in Ohio, the microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) program includes a mandatory 300 hours of work experience.

Students start paid internships within one or two semesters, and by the time they graduate, they usually have a full-time job lined up.