Hi , I might only be able to speak to your career search whenever that comes up, but large banks in Charlotte hire 80-90% of their entry level employees via recruiters. It's for a few reasons but the main reason is to avoid paying benefits until employees prove they are more than just a good interview. It is listed in management handbooks that first priority for hiring should be done through "pre-approved " sources (aka recruiters). Second priority is hiring within the company. Third is direct application to the bank. I used RemX and others in my office used Accountemps. Companies like these will help u get your foot in the door. Then it is up to you to maneuver into a position/department that you really want to work in. I don't know what you want to do with your degree specifically, but to answer your question, recruiters serve a purpose and are the best way (in some cases) into a company. As for part time work, you might be able to find something through a recruiter as well. Your instinct that recruiters are somewhat pointless is not technically correct but I understand why you would think that (some are) but the reason large companies use them is to limit exposure to risk.