4 answers
Isabella
Student
Concord, California
1
Question
Updated
215 views
How can a student like me manage finding and working a job while working on getting a degree?
I am a student looking for a job to have during college. How can I be prepared and responsible while doing school and a job at once?
Login to comment
4 answers
Jane Wang123
Pre-Sales Project Manager
8
Answers
Dalian, Liaoning, China
Updated
Jane’s Answer
That's a great question—and you're already showing responsibility just by thinking ahead like this!
Balancing school and a job can be challenging, but totally doable with the right habits. Here are a few tips:
Know your limits: Start with a part-time job with fewer hours (like 10–15 hours/week), especially if you're new to juggling both. You can always add more hours later.
Use a calendar: Whether it's a planner or your phone, tracking your class times, assignments, and work shifts helps avoid last-minute stress.
Prioritize school: Your education is your long-term investment. Make sure you leave enough time to study and rest.
Talk to your employer: Most college-town employers are used to student workers. Be honest about your schedule and let them know in advance if things get overwhelming.
Set boundaries: Protect your downtime and avoid overcommitting. Saying no is part of being responsible!
Balancing school and a job can be challenging, but totally doable with the right habits. Here are a few tips:
Know your limits: Start with a part-time job with fewer hours (like 10–15 hours/week), especially if you're new to juggling both. You can always add more hours later.
Use a calendar: Whether it's a planner or your phone, tracking your class times, assignments, and work shifts helps avoid last-minute stress.
Prioritize school: Your education is your long-term investment. Make sure you leave enough time to study and rest.
Talk to your employer: Most college-town employers are used to student workers. Be honest about your schedule and let them know in advance if things get overwhelming.
Set boundaries: Protect your downtime and avoid overcommitting. Saying no is part of being responsible!
lola lola
1
Answer
Van Nuys, IN
Updated
lola’s Answer
Balancing school and a job requires good time management. Prioritize tasks, create a schedule, and set realistic goals. Look for flexible jobs and communicate with employers about your academic commitments. Stay organized!
Sneha Deb
Tech Consultant
194
Answers
Edison, New Jersey
Updated
Sneha’s Answer
Balancing a job and school takes planning, but it’s completely doable with the right mindset. Start by creating a weekly schedule that includes classes, study time, work hours, and personal time so you don’t get overwhelmed. Look for on-campus or part-time jobs with flexible hours that understand the demands of student life. Communicate early with your professors and your employer about your availability and any busy academic periods. Most importantly, take care of yourself. Rest and balance are just as important as grades and paychecks. With good habits and time management, you’ll build both your resume and your confidence. Good luck!
Brandyn Knight
Operations Supervisor, Owner - Life & Career Coach
18
Answers
Orillia, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Brandyn’s Answer
Hi Isabella,
If you ask me, you’re already ahead of the game by asking this question—balancing work and school is a challenge, but also a great opportunity for growth. As a career coach, I’ve worked with many students like yourself, and here are a few practical strategies that really help:
1. Start Small: Begin with a flexible, part-time role—something like 10–15 hours per week—so you can adjust to managing your time effectively without overwhelming yourself.
2. Build a Weekly Routine: Use a planner or digital calendar to map out your class times, study blocks, work shifts, and downtime. Having a visual schedule helps you stay on track and avoid overcommitting.
3. Look for Student-Friendly Jobs: On-campus roles, tutoring, or remote jobs are often more understanding of academic demands. These environments typically provide flexibility during exam weeks and midterms.
4. Set Boundaries and Communicate: Don’t hesitate to speak openly with your employer about your school commitments. Most are supportive when you're proactive and honest.
5. Prioritize Well-Being: Burnout is real. Make time for rest, hobbies, and social connections. Your health and happiness fuel your success in both school and work.
Try using a free app like MyStudyLife or Google Calendar to manage your schedule.
Visit your school’s career center—they often have leads on flexible jobs and time management resources.
Practice saying no to things that don’t fit your priorities right now. It’s a valuable skill!
If you ask me, you’re already ahead of the game by asking this question—balancing work and school is a challenge, but also a great opportunity for growth. As a career coach, I’ve worked with many students like yourself, and here are a few practical strategies that really help:
1. Start Small: Begin with a flexible, part-time role—something like 10–15 hours per week—so you can adjust to managing your time effectively without overwhelming yourself.
2. Build a Weekly Routine: Use a planner or digital calendar to map out your class times, study blocks, work shifts, and downtime. Having a visual schedule helps you stay on track and avoid overcommitting.
3. Look for Student-Friendly Jobs: On-campus roles, tutoring, or remote jobs are often more understanding of academic demands. These environments typically provide flexibility during exam weeks and midterms.
4. Set Boundaries and Communicate: Don’t hesitate to speak openly with your employer about your school commitments. Most are supportive when you're proactive and honest.
5. Prioritize Well-Being: Burnout is real. Make time for rest, hobbies, and social connections. Your health and happiness fuel your success in both school and work.
Brandyn recommends the following next steps: