2 answers
Elijah
Student
Clearbrook, Minnesota
1
Question
Asked
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What are some good ways to balance College work and having a job I am leaving for college next fall, and I would like to have a job, but also do well academically. #Spring25
I am a senior, and I plan to go to college for Physical Therapy, which I have been told needs a lot of studying. How can I fund my college experience while still doing well academically? #Spring25
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2 answers
Shakera Fernander-McNeil
Internal Auditor
4
Answers
Riverview, Florida
Updated
Shakera’s Answer
The key to funding college and doing well academically is being realistic and intentional with your time.
First, be honest with yourself about how much time you’ll need to study. Science-heavy courses require consistent focus, not just cramming. When I was in college, I worked part-time at a bank, but I chose a schedule that protected my study time. I worked three full days during the week and kept the remaining weekdays and weekends for classes and studying. That structure made it easier to stay on top of my coursework without feeling constantly overwhelmed.
Second, be transparent with your employer. Let them know upfront that school is your priority and that there may be times (like exams or heavy weeks) when you need flexibility. Many employers are willing to work with students who communicate clearly and plan ahead.
Third, don’t underestimate the power of a strong study plan with built-in buffer time. Having a schedule that assumes everything will go perfectly usually backfires. Planning extra time for harder topics, unexpected assignments, or mental breaks helped me get through college and later pass the CIA exam while working full time and parenting.
Finally, schedule your most difficult courses or study sessions during the times of day when your energy and focus are highest. Everyone has peak hours. I encourage you to use them for problem-solving, memorization, and deep studying, and save lighter tasks for lower-energy moments.
With planning, communication, and a clear understanding of your limits, it’s possible to work, fund your education, and still perform well academically.
First, be honest with yourself about how much time you’ll need to study. Science-heavy courses require consistent focus, not just cramming. When I was in college, I worked part-time at a bank, but I chose a schedule that protected my study time. I worked three full days during the week and kept the remaining weekdays and weekends for classes and studying. That structure made it easier to stay on top of my coursework without feeling constantly overwhelmed.
Second, be transparent with your employer. Let them know upfront that school is your priority and that there may be times (like exams or heavy weeks) when you need flexibility. Many employers are willing to work with students who communicate clearly and plan ahead.
Third, don’t underestimate the power of a strong study plan with built-in buffer time. Having a schedule that assumes everything will go perfectly usually backfires. Planning extra time for harder topics, unexpected assignments, or mental breaks helped me get through college and later pass the CIA exam while working full time and parenting.
Finally, schedule your most difficult courses or study sessions during the times of day when your energy and focus are highest. Everyone has peak hours. I encourage you to use them for problem-solving, memorization, and deep studying, and save lighter tasks for lower-energy moments.
With planning, communication, and a clear understanding of your limits, it’s possible to work, fund your education, and still perform well academically.
CHUNTING DONG
36
Answers
Updated
CHUNTING’s Answer
Hi Elijah,
Juggling college and a job while trying to do well in a tough field like physical therapy needs some smart planning. Here are a few tips:
- Know Your Classes: Before the semester begins, check out what your physical therapy courses will require. Figure out which ones are tougher, and plan to spend more time studying for those.
- Make a Weekly Plan: Set aside time for classes, studying, work, and breaks. Don’t forget to add some extra time for surprises. For instance, you might want to save certain evenings or weekends for deep study and keep mornings free for work if your class schedule allows.
Hope this helps! Thanks.
Juggling college and a job while trying to do well in a tough field like physical therapy needs some smart planning. Here are a few tips:
- Know Your Classes: Before the semester begins, check out what your physical therapy courses will require. Figure out which ones are tougher, and plan to spend more time studying for those.
- Make a Weekly Plan: Set aside time for classes, studying, work, and breaks. Don’t forget to add some extra time for surprises. For instance, you might want to save certain evenings or weekends for deep study and keep mornings free for work if your class schedule allows.
Hope this helps! Thanks.
Loved reading this, thanks!
Elijah