Ashley
Should I get a part-time or university job while attending classes?
It has been something that I have been questioning since I started at university. I know that I need a greater amount of experience than I have currently, and in getting a job, I will have more funds. Which is just a touch important. On the other side, a part-time job may not be in the field of my preference, and will definitely cause an issue when it comes to hours needed for study. So, is a part-time job during your time at university, if you do not actively require it, still something that should be considered? Can it just depend on your situation? Thank you!
#part-time #university #jobs-for-college-students #work-life-balance
4 answers
Christos Kampouridis
Christos’s Answer
A part time job heavily depends on each situation. I will outline some situations from best to worst:
1) Part time job that relates to major and is low demand (time wise or mentally). Absolutely do it and the experience will look great on your resume.
2) Part time job that relates to major but is high demand. Carefully consider how much time it is taking from your studies.
3) Part time job that doesn't relate to major and is low demand. Only if you need more money for tuition or require financial independence for other reasons.
4) Part time job that doesn't relate to major and is high demand. Don't do it, it's not worth it.
At the end of the day you know your situation best. Sometimes college is about making mistakes. Sometimes getting a job you hate makes you focus more on school. Sometimes a part time job that is mentally tiring can make you stronger and might have other tertiary effects. Remember what your goals are as well throughout this process. I.e. Want to go to grad school? The hit your GPA took from getting that part time job will hurt you disproportionately.
There's no absolute right or wrong answer, weigh the pros and cons. Good luck!
Thank you so much for your answer! I know that this sort of issue varies depending on each person's situation, but I constantly worry about my future and I know I've made quite a few mistakes during my college career already. I really do not want to make any more. This has given me a lot more to think about, and I will definitely sit down and look over the plan I had in place for myself. And, maybe make a few changes. Thank you, again!
Ashley
Tiffany Woodall
Tiffany’s Answer
To offer an alternative perspective, I believe part-time jobs are beneficial regardless of their affiliation to your intended career. I worked several part-time jobs in college, none of which were related to my journalism major. I learned valuable, transferrable skills from each position I held. While maintaining good grades is important, I believe it's also important to develop life skills beyond studying, such as conflict resolution, professional communication, responsibility, and time management. I also found that I needed time away from my studies to ensure I was living a balanced life. Through my part-time jobs, I met new friends and found community outside academics.
All that to say, I agree that you know your situation best. If your schedule allows for it, I would highly recommend finding a part-time job, even if it's only a few hours a week. You never know what you might learn and how you might grow from it.
Thank you so much for your answer! Having an alternative perspective is quite helpful! I had not thought about a community beyond that in which I have access to in university and at home. Learning the skills within a part time job and having a focus that is not school is something I think could benefit me greatly. Thank you, again!
Ashley
Rachel Resnick
Rachel’s Answer
If you do you will need to manage your time well and cope with stress effectively. In order to manage stress you have to manage your time wisely. <span style="background-color: transparent;">You have to set a routine for yourself and stick to it for the most part. Once you get into the groove of a routine it will be much easier for you to manage your time and have enough time for everything you need to do (including relaxing). Make yourself to-do lists on a weekly basis, use Google calendar or a planner to keep track of events, deadlines, and due dates. In addition to setting a routine and sticking to it, plan out relaxing activities into your day. Or set aside a time, after everything is done for the day, that you can have "me" time. I have also personally found it essential to not only find time for myself but also make use of that time in a way that is best for me and my holistic wellness. I have found the HeadSpace app to be an essential tool in helping me relax and generally feel more relaxed throughout the day, Guided meditation, even if you have a busy schedule, will make you feel more at ease and relaxed throughout the day as a whole (not just when you have the time to relax and focus on that "me" time).</span>
Kevin Cronin
Kevin’s Answer
If you know what career you are interest in then if possible seek a part time or intern position in that field
but like others have said there are benefits to working even if not in your chosen field
if you can handle your class load, then look for a job that either fits your time frame or that can benefit your future career goals