Is it time for me to get a part time job?
My name is Briana and I'll be starting my second year at my community college this upcoming fall semester. I'll be taking thirteen units and my parents have been recently pushing me to apply for a job with nods to "we're hiring" signs. I understand with my age I should be working, but I'm not sure if it would be healthy for me, the amount of coursework I'm taking and confusion I continue to have gearing toward a specific major. I know I need to focus on choosing something to plan out the next three years, but I don't think I can with usual coursework and a job to worry about.
I understand the extra cash would help and my parents want me to have some type of work experience, but I don't want to burn out from stress coming through each direction especially as a horrible multitasker. Thank you for responding and have a nice day! #first-generation-college-students #community-college #psychology #work-life-balance #women-in-stem #japan
20 answers
Laura’s Answer
Kevin M.’s Answer
Candace’s Answer
I can relate to this as my daughter is in the same situation. As an engineering student at Clemson. I encouraged her to get a part time job to get acclimated to the work force. Due to her work load she was very leery of adding anything else to her plate. She found a work study at the school. She only works a few hours a day. She's gaining experience to put on her resume, as well as making money and finding a work life balance before she enters the workforce full time. As Laura sad there is not one answer to the question but considering a work study job might be a option.

Jennifer Friedberg
Jennifer’s Answer
I think you've received great feedback and opinions on your question. I wanted to share that I went through this while in college as well. I received a job at the admissions office of my university. This was a great job because it didn't add so much stress to my average day, but allowed me to have an income on the side. The admissions office was staffed by all students so we had very flexible schedules and were able to schedule 10-12 hours a week in between classes or whenever you could. I really enjoyed the job as well since I was speaking with potential incoming students and sharing my opinions about the school. I think if you find a job which is more enjoyable and perhaps on-campus, then you might find it easier to fit into your schedule. I also think I learned great skills by managing school and work - that experience is priceless and many don't have the opportunity or don't choose to pursue it. I would suggest to try and find an on-campus job and see how it goes - do not pressure yourself if you get overwhelmed though.
John’s Answer
John’s Answer
Best of luck to you.

Keith Treadaway, PMP
Keith’s Answer
Education should be your number 1 priority, but you can supplement that with some real work experience. I have always been a fan of working and going to school. You can learn a lot not only on the job, but also with balancing priorities. If you decide to look for a job while attending school, it will be important to make sure it strikes the right mix so it in not a distraction. Best of luck.

Gregory Colicci
Gregory’s Answer
Elena’s Answer
Dom’s Answer
Your education should of course be your number 1 priority, however being able to juggle school and a job will prepare you for the real world where you don't always get to choose your workload. For example, most people carry a full time job and manage the responsibilities of parenthood.
Having the work experience will also look good on a resume and a potential employer may value the work ethic.
I would seriously consider at least trying it out and putting forth a real effort. You can always quit if it becomes too much.
Alyssa’s Answer
If you choose to look for a job - keep an eye out for places that are willing to give you less than 20 hours a week, jobs near your college campus that way you can cut down on commuting time, and places that employ other students (this way you know they're willing to be flexible with your schedule and understand the demands of being a student).
A lot of colleges have student jobs on campus that you can apply for like working in the library or in an administrative building - these are often harder to come by, but they're great because there's often a lot of down time (that is, time to do homework at work) and have flexible schedules.
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Diana’s Answer
I was a student while working at Marsh & McLennan on 9/11. I took the internship/job to gain experience and also secure future opportunities while working there. Even though, I went through a tragic even while working there as a student I can say that I am grateful that I did work while completing my studies. The work experience helped me mature and I became a manager before I was 30 years old. Overall, I recommend working while in school since it will lead you to opportunities faster in life, gain exposure and maturity. Good luck and hope this advice helped!
Denise’s Answer
My kids experienced something similar. I highly encourage it. Education should be your primary responsibility, but, having a job will provide you with other real life experience. Earning money, financial responsibility, time management, customer experience, broadening your interaction with people, etc. If you can find an employer where you are learning something different while balancing your education, I think it would be very beneficial to you. Good luck.
Paris’s Answer
This is a tough decision as it sounds like your coursework is a priority to you (as it should be). However, having part-time jobs or internships while in college can really help you once you are graduated and entering the workforce. If I were you, I would try to get a part-time job at the college you go to. Working at your college means they will most likely understand your schedule and be willing to work with you. I worked as a tutor at my community college and loved it! college
Drew’s Answer
Hello, my advice would be to give it a try. You can make an attempt and get the experience. Its not going to be easy but you will learn. Thats your main objective right now at this time in your life is to learn as much as you can. You will get some interviewing experience as well. If is too much and you arent able to manage everything then you will have learned where your limits are. You may find that having a part time job will give you relief from the stress of all your school work. Also your parents will be proud of you for trying even if it doesnt work out.
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