- Set a schedule
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When you set a schedule, it helps you visualize what things you need to get done throughout the week. Whether it be homework, work at a specific time, or even just hanging with your friends, having that free time to write down the things you want to accomplish allows you to become more organized. Personally, using an agenda has really helped in terms of looking at what you have planned. So, start visualizing your schedule and crossing things off your calendar to feel productive!
- Stay ahead in classes
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This tip is more disciplined oriented but from the start of your semester all the way to the end, staying ahead on lessons, homework (if allowed), and studying early is efficient to help you understand lessons ahead of time, so when it’s time for class having some sort of knowledge about the material helps you from being lost during the class. Whether you are working part-time or full time, having that advantage of being ahead can really benefit you and make things a lot easier when preparing for classes, especially when you don’t always have the time to try to relearn certain lessons on your own.
- Give both school and work the same amount of commitment
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Whether you are working or doing school, it’s important that you do not overwork yourself if not necessary. According to a study by Tengiz Verulava and Revaz Jorbenadze published in the Malta Medical Journal, 44% of respondents said their sleep disturbances were due to the difficulty of balancing work and study, which negatively impacted their physical and mental health as well as their academic performance. Prioritizing school is just as important as making money in college. The key is to acknowledge what you are in college for, which is getting a degree! Doing something you love and feel connected to is just as important as valuing a job. Having both achievements is highly impressive on its own, so make sure you take pride in your homework, assignments, and exams.
- Communicate when things get tough
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As a college student, you want to do what’s best for yourself. Balancing classes on top of work and still allowing time for the everyday life things can get tough and be overwhelming, and that’s okay! So staying in contact with the people you work with to possibly get shifts covered, get time off, and allow some time to do homework or even just have a day to yourself should become normalized. Keeping in touch with your manager when things get difficult seems scary, but in a good work environment, you should speak up if you feel as if your scheduled is getting overwhelmed.
- Remember, you are not alone!
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From my own experience, I used to get really upset knowing I had to work and couldn’t always have fun and be with my friends. So, sophomore year, I made more friends, and I realized that I wasn’t the only one feeling that way! Hundreds of students work and feel upset at times, so being able to find the same people to relate to can really help you get through your college experience, knowing that you have found people who are on the same schedule as you! Being able to make new friends because of niche experiences and hobbies really helps.
Overall, having a job in college is a toss-up. But at the end of the day, it’s all worth it. Making money while you are in college and getting your degree should never be a waste, and it will lead to so much more success as your graduate.