Juggling your studies with a part-time job is demanding, so how do you go about getting the right balance between your work, academics and social commitments?
Many students need to find part-time work for a variety of reasons. Some students need to support themselves while they complete their studies, some would like to earn some money for their personal use, and some would simply like to gain formal work experience. These are only some of the reasons why the majority of universities have career centres where they advertise part-time work. Reassuringly, taking on part-time jobs while you study will actively benefit your future career prospects. Here are some tips on how to balance the demands of part-time work with the rest of your student career.
1. Prioritise the important things.
Do not look at the big picture all at once! This will increase your stress and anxiety. Instead, rather look at the parts which make up the whole. In order to do this, create a priority list with the most important aspects you need to do on the top and the less important things lower down on the list. Reflect on your priorities regularly and adjust them accordingly. For example, before your exams, you will probably find yourself cutting down on your other commitments. Whatever you decide, be realistic about what is achievable and schedule in some downtime as well.
2. Plan, Plan, Plan!
Next, organise your time so that your priorities do not fall to the wayside. Use an app on your phone, use a day-to-day diary or use a wall calendar, whichever works best for you, to schedule in your commitments: important lectures and assignment deadlines, dates and times you have agreed to work and key social events. Take a look at your entire week and plan in the time to study and relax around them. It may not be easy if you take on a zero-hour work position, but try to gain a structured work pattern so that you can get into a routine that works for you. It’s also important to keep in mind to not agree to work at a time when you have lectures or tutorials scheduled. Think about the time of day when you are most productive, awake and alert, some people work better in the mornings while others are night owls, try to schedule what is most important to you around such times.
3. Keep everyone informed.
It's inevitable that there will be times when your studies need to take priority over part-time work or your social commitments. However, in saying this, it is important to not drop the ball at your current position. If you work regular times, give your employer as much notice as possible that you will need more time during this period and try to negotiate a solution. Communication is key! Finding the balance is also important as it can still be done! You can work and study at the same time! University staff also understand and respect fully that finances are an issue and recognise that many students do need to work. Should you find yourself struggling to produce coursework on time, seek advice and support as soon as you can from the career centre or departmental tutor. Alternatively call TutorBox to assist in finding you a tutor.
4. Resist Temptation.
The trick is to use your short gaps of unstructured and unplanned time wisely. If you spend these ‘free’ moments fitting some of your work in and forcing yourself to stay focused, it can free up larger portions of your weekends and evenings for socialisation.
5. Choose your work environment wisely.
Your home or a RES (residence) can be full of distractions: your bed, TV, computer, and other people who may be relaxing or making noise. Find a location where you can fully concentrate and focus on your work. For example, the library or an empty lecture hall – as long as you find a quiet place where you will be a more productive.
6. Take care of yourself – mind and body.
It is so important to be realistic about what you can do and don’t promise something you can’t deliver. You can only rush around from pillar to post for so long but eventually you need to stop and relax, even if it means just getting enough sleep. There are only 24 hours in a day and seven days in a week, you need time to unwind and relax. Ultimately, your health is the most important thing. Take time out to exercise, meditate and to spend time with your loved ones. If you find that you are still struggling, make an appointment at the student services/student support centre at your university. They will have specially trained advisers who can, more often than not, give you sound guidance. They may present options that you didn’t know about.
Remember, being a full-time student is like having a full-time job. Your academics require your attention on a daily basis. While you may spend a weekend relaxing, make sure that you dedicate the majority of every weekday to your studies. If you leave studying to the last minute, there will not be enough time to do a good job and to achieve the marks that you are capable of achieving.
There is no perfect formula for balancing your social life, part-time work and academics. Each person is unique and must, therefore, find a balance that works for you. If you can develop positive habits and self-discipline that you need to manage your time effectively, your anxiety will decrease and you will find a routine that works for you.
