Balancing Work and Going to College
Going to
college can be challenging enough, but when you've got to juggle working at a
part-time job, as well, it can be even more stressful, and it might even feel
impossible at times. But there are ways to attend school, work part-time, and
have time for fun – it’s all about keeping a balance. Take a look at our top
three tips below for finding and keeping the balance.
Create
a Realistic Schedule
Creating a realistic schedule is vital
to keeping a good school/work balance. The key is to not stretch yourself too
thin. Find a job that offers flexible hours that work around your class
schedule, and be sure to schedule time for schoolwork, study, and leisure. A
part-time job at a restaurant or retail store could be the perfect match for a
full-time college student. These types of jobs offer flexible shifts that can
often be adapted to your academic schedule.
Set
Realistic Goals
When you have a full schedule, it can
be difficult to stay on track and keep motivated. Setting short-term, milestone
and long-term goals for yourself can remind you of why you’re working so hard
and can help provide constant motivation. Set attainable goals for your job and
your schoolwork. This will keep you aware of your achievements in both
environments and may even make it easier to get a promotion or to improve your
grades in the future. Goals are also a great way to see where you’re working
too hard, or where you’re not putting in enough effort.
Know
Your Priorities
It can be difficult to balance school
and work if you’re unaware of, or neglect your priorities; however, If you live
in an off-campus Fanshawe
college residence like R1, you should find plenty of
resources to help keep you on track. Before the semester starts or before you
start a new job, make a list of your current priorities and how they’ll be
affected by the new responsibility. Create a daily time log that includes
separate lists of your priorities (e.g. work and class), important activities
or duties that can be postponed if you don’t have the time (e.g. going to the
gym or doing the laundry), and unimportant activities (e.g. watching
television). Additionally, use a weekly calendar to track your time and help
you estimate how much time you’ll have for extra activities after taking care
of your responsibilities.
Whether you have a part-time job or
are looking for one, put these tips into action to find and keep the perfect
school/work balance.
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