Working through college can be a daunting lifestyle. When most people begin their first semester of college, they are nervous about the workload. Regardless of whether it is a full-time or part-time job, working adds a whole new amount of responsibility to your plate, along with more stress.
Managing your time
The key to success when working while also being a college student is to smartly manage your time. It is easy to become overwhelmed with work from both ends when you do not have a set schedule. Therefore, it is incredibly important to create a schedule that allows you to balance both work and school while avoiding as much stress as possible. You can invest in planners, or even just use a schedule on your Gmail or phone. There are a few ways to figure out what system is best for you, but each system varies from person to person.
Creating the ideal class schedule
When making a class schedule for the semester, you want to make sure that you save time for work. Generally, a full-time college student has five classes, allowing for some flexibility within the week. For some people, night classes are ideal because they can can work a full day and then attend classes a few nights a week. It is also good to find out if your college offers online classes because they can allow you to take your courses at home. The best part about being able to create your own class schedule is that you can mold it to fit your work schedule and make sure that both work best for you.
Down time
In your perfectly planned-out schedule, it is also important to make time for down time. You don’t want to constantly be on the go and jumping from one thing to the next. You are human, and it is OK to relax sometimes. It is important for you to get the rest you need so that you can excel both in the office and in class.
Flexibility and communication
Keeping your schedule and down time in mind, having a flexible job can really benefit you while you are a student. Some employers may allow you to change your hours if you are a full-time employee, or even allow you to work remotely, which would give you more time to focus on your studies. You should always communicate with your employer so that they are aware of your class schedule and any changes that may occur between semesters.
Handling stress
There are ways to deal with the stress that may come along with balancing both work and school. Most importantly, you need to focus on your health. Ignoring your health can cause negative effects on your performance, so it is important to exercise and eat healthy. Along with living a healthy lifestyle, it is important to be social. Sometimes just talking to a friend, professor or even an adviser about your stress will help you sort out your thoughts and get back on track.
You are not alone
Balancing a job while being a full-time college student is not an easy task. You will have some difficulties at first when trying to figure out what type of system works for you, but you will get the hang of it. There are many students that work while attending college, so it definitely is possible.
This article was originally featured on genbiz.com.
