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Should I work full time during college?

For some background information I'm pretty broke. My family dosen't have the best circumstances and they're trying to invest in a new location for a resteraunt. I'm going to be attending Northeastern Oakland next school year and I'm wondering if I should work more than a federal work study. A friend that I meet going to the same place told me he could hook me up with a good job.

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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Andrew,

Yes, that can be a bit of a balancing act, and getting enough sleep will be a primary issue, as you will need to fuel your system with adequate nutrients and fluids. Just to avoid neurological burnout you need to take regular breaks and time off. I had outpatient nutrition clinics in outback Australia and the clinical hours swelled from 3 hours to 12. There was barely enough time to visit the latrine. Once they knew I had written nutrition education software it was on for young and old.


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GOD BLESS YOU, BECAUSE HE CAN!
JC.
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Jessica’s Answer

Hi Andrew,

The decision to work full time during college depends on individual circumstances and priorities. It can provide financial stability and valuable work experience, but it may also impact academic performance and limit time for extracurricular activities. Consider your workload, time management skills, and long-term goals before making a decision.

You got this!
Jessica
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Tiffany’s Answer

Choosing to take on a full-time job while in college is a big decision. It's important to think about your schoolwork, how much money you need, how well you manage your time, and how you're feeling overall. You should think about how working could affect your grades, your health, and your ability to balance work and play. If you need to, look into jobs that are part-time or have flexible hours. These can still help you make money while keeping your focus on your studies. Don't forget to ask for advice from your school advisors or career counselors. They can help you make a choice that fits with your goals and your situation.
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Jerome’s Answer

This can be a tough one. On one hand, focusing on learning and developing can have a significant impact on your career prospects, but on the other hand, your family is important. I worked part time while taking a full load and it was a lot at times.

The answer really boils down to what you can juggle and how well you can juggle it. If you do have to work more, you could potentially do just a couple of classes at a time. Just make sure you balance things out and give your future self as many resources as possible.
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Ken’s Answer

Dear Andrew,

I understand you're navigating through a challenging phase. Remember, prioritizing your own welfare and that of your family is paramount, even though it may sometimes lead to tough decisions.

To maximize the benefits of your education, I believe you can strike a balance between work and studies. You could consider doing one full-time and the other part-time, but juggling both full-time might be overwhelming. Sticking to a consistent schedule can be a great aid in managing your time effectively.

Drawing from my personal experience, I've juggled both academics and employment. During my college years, I studied full-time and worked part-time. Post-graduation, I secured a full-time job. A few years down the line, I decided to pursue my MBA on a part-time basis while continuing with my full-time job. I realized that managing both full-time was beyond my capacity.

Wishing you the very best on your journey!
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Nina’s Answer

I think if you're able to balance a job with school, then it could be a good endeavor because it'll bring income to you/your family AND it'll teach you valuable skills of: time management, prioritization, and organization skills. Having a bit of extra funds can also help alleviate stress that you may be experiencing.
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Christine’s Answer

Hi Andrew,

Some of the guidance shared previously is certainly valid - your goal is challenging, yet completely achievable. Your success can also be influenced by various factors, such as the number of credits you're taking, your involvement in extracurricular activities, and so on. Reflecting on my own college experience, I juggled a part-time job while studying. Despite facing some hurdles and occasional struggles, I managed to pull through.

The most significant challenge I encountered was mastering time management. But if you excel in this area, I'm confident you'll navigate your situation effectively. Most importantly, as you juggle these responsibilities, remember to prioritize your well-being and avoid overburdening yourself. It's crucial to maintain a healthy balance!
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Cliff’s Answer

The insights shared by everyone here are truly valuable. I'd like to contribute a few more:

Committing to a full-time job can significantly consume your time, potentially diminishing the richness of your college experience. If I could go back, I'd choose a part-time job over a full-time one.

Your financial situation and needs are crucial factors to consider. If you're compelled to work full-time due to financial constraints, that necessity likely trumps all other considerations. Student loans are another alternative, although I presume you've already explored this option.

Securing a well-paid summer internship can significantly offset your college expenses. Some companies offer an impressive $40+ per hour, so I encourage you to seek out these opportunities and strive to land one.

Remember, it's essential to enjoy your life and have fun, even while juggling responsibilities. The teenage years and early 20s can be challenging, but they're also incredibly resilient. The key is finding a balance that works for you, and only you can determine what that looks like.
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Andrina’s Answer

Hi Andrew,

Thanks for your insightful question, I appreciate you bringing it up. It's indeed a tough one, especially considering your need to work.

Striking a balance between work and study is crucial. If your study schedule is intense, a full-time job might not be the best option as it could hinder you from reaching your academic goals. However, you might want to explore some part-time job opportunities. These could provide you with some financial support, while still allowing you to concentrate on your studies.

My suggestion for you is to take your time when making this decision. Consider whether the job offers have flexible hours and if you can realistically manage both work and study.

Also, don't forget the importance of maintaining good sleep and eating habits. They play a critical role in our overall well-being.

I hope you find this advice useful.
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Romir’s Answer

Hey Andrew, the answer to this question definitely depends on a couple different factors:

1. What is your need? It seems like it can really benefit your family if you're able to take on a job outside of college, so it could definitely help to take up a job in addition to your college work.

2. Will you be able to work and put forth your full effort in school? Going into it, you have to assume your days will be busy if you're doing a full time job and you're a full time student, so it's good to just embrace that right away. But even knowing that, you need to evaluate whether you can still perform at your best with a full time job, as it can contribute to impacting the direction of your future.

As long as you're able to balance school and work I see no problem with doing both, as long as you're able to make the commitment to doing your best for your own benefit.
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Thiago’s Answer

Hi Andrew,

Deciding whether to work full-time during college is a significant decision, especially given your financial situation and your family's circumstances. Balancing academic commitments with a full-time job can be challenging. Northeastern Oakland, where you'll be attending, likely has rigorous programs that demand considerable time and effort. It’s important to assess whether you can manage both a full-time job and your studies without compromising your academic success.

Given your financial needs, a full-time job might be necessary to support yourself and possibly assist your family. While federal work-study is a flexible option designed to fit around your class schedule and contribute to your financial aid package, it might not be enough. The job opportunity your friend has offered could provide the additional financial support you need, ensuring you can cover your living expenses and contribute at home.

Lastly, consider the nature of the job your friend is suggesting. If it's relevant to your field of study or future career aspirations, it could offer valuable experience and enhance your resume. If not, weigh the benefits of the income against the potential impact on your time and academic performance. Effective time management and open communication with your academic advisor will be crucial to navigate this challenging but potentially rewarding period.
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Megan’s Answer

Hi Andrew,

Working full time and going to school full time is very hard. It can result in exhaustion and not doing as well in your studies. I will say that the federal work study programs do not usually pay well. If you can work part-time for a better-paying job with your friend that might be a better option.

I think starting as a freshman working full time will be too much. Maybe after you adjust and get time management down you could increase your hours. In the summer time, you can always work more.

I hope this helps!
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Lucine’s Answer

Hello Andrew,

Your question is a great one and I will say that it feasible, but it will be hard. I am not sure what type of full-time job you will be doing but it will also depend on your setting as well. You will to be disciplined to switch to your studying hat and working hat when the time comes. You can also mix your classes where you are balancing your core (hard core) with elective to alleviate the workload and pressure. The schools usually have job board where you can work as student to make decent pay to sustain you. You did not specify your major but regardless of what it is will still be a challenge.
If you can manage your time and be disciplined enough to dedicate your time to studying, you can do it. Lastly some organizations allow you to work 30 hours a week and have full time benefits, if it gets rough then consider asking to lower your hours.

I hope this helps.
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Rose’s Answer

Working full-time in college is a significant commitment that requires excellent time management skills. I would suggest not working during your first semester to set yourself up for success. Determine the number of credits you will be taking and assess the workload for the next semester. Decide if adding a full-time job on top of similar credits would be manageable. It may be helpful to consult your counselor at Northeastern Oakland for a realistic view of your major's workload.

During my undergraduate years, I worked part-time and did a full-time internship. It is possible to handle both, but seek assistance and understand your major's workload before committing to a full-time job. I highly recommend seeking internships related to your major as they can offer better pay and flexibility with your school schedule. Just remember to leave time to enjoy the college experience and make connections with your peers. If you are looking career options I'd recommend that you explore on Access Your Potential’s site for potential career opportunities like internships and paid consulting externships for nonprofits. Visit
http://accessyourpotential.pwc.com/.
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Elizabeth’s Answer

Balancing a full-time job while attending college can be a tough choice for some students, as it brings its own set of challenges. This includes managing your academic responsibilities, performing well in your job, and taking care of your basic needs like eating and sleeping regularly. It can be a tough act to balance, and sometimes, certain aspects of life might be overlooked. Even if you don't have classes every day, you still need time to rest and recharge for the upcoming school days. Working full-time can eat into this essential recovery time.

Instead of opting for full-time work, consider alternatives like on-campus work-study programs or part-time jobs. These options can be more beneficial if you're aiming to achieve a healthy work-life balance. The work-study program is a need-based financial aid that allows students to earn money while working on campus. It's a great choice if you're looking to gain work experience and earn some extra cash. On the other hand, a part-time job can be a better choice if you're looking to earn more money, as it offers more working hours, depending on the job location.

Remember, there's no rush in making this decision. College is a time for learning to balance responsibilities while also enjoying your youth. It can be overwhelming at times, so it's crucial to find moments of joy and relaxation.
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Daniel’s Answer

Working full time during college can be a big commitment, but if you're up for the challenge and want to gain practical experience in your field while earning some cash, a paid internship could be a great option. Since you're considering working while studying, how about looking into a paid internship related to your major or field of study? For example, if you're majoring in interior design, you might want to explore paid internships at design firms, architecture companies, or furniture manufacturers. This way, you can gain hands-on experience in your chosen field, build valuable connections, and potentially earn money to support yourself during college. Just make sure to balance your workload effectively to avoid burnout and prioritize your academic commitments.
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Michael’s Answer

Hello Andrew,

It is certainly a balancing game! A strategy I found successful was beginning with a part-time job to gauge if I could balance full-time studies and work simultaneously. This served as an excellent stepping stone in discovering the equilibrium between academics and employment. Ideally, you should aim for a part-time job initially, then transition to a full-time role once you've mastered the art of juggling both school and work. I would suggest exploring retail jobs close to your campus, as they often offer considerable flexibility when it comes to scheduling!
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Mo’s Answer

Hello Andrew,

Absolutely, it's important to carefully balance the advantages and disadvantages of holding down a full-time job while studying in college. Remember, everyone's circumstances are unique. There are numerous elements you'll need to take into account when making this choice, including personal matters, family obligations, social commitments, and your specific college plans. Some college courses might demand more time and focus than others, so whether you can work alongside will depend on that. Wishing you the best of luck with your decision-making process, and I hope this advice is useful to you!
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Milijana’s Answer

Hi Andrew, I hope all is well.

The decision to work full-time during college is a personal one and it depends on various factors. Some students find that working while pursuing their studies helps them gain valuable work experience and supports them financially. However, it can also be challenging to balance the demands of a full-time job with schoolwork and other responsibilities. It may be helpful to consider your individual circumstances, academic goals, and financial needs before making a decision.

Seeking advice from academic advisors, career counselors, or financial aid officers can also provide valuable guidance.

I believe it would be beneficial to focus on being in school full-time while also having a part-time job. The duration of your degree may vary, with completion in 2-5 years, but you will have to work for many more years to come. Balancing your education and job experience now can provide a strong foundation for the future.

Best of luck,
M
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Kelly’s Answer

The federal work-study is an excellent starting point compared to other positions, primarily because it significantly reduces the commuting distance. During my undergraduate studies, I was employed full-time for approximately half the time. This was manageable because most of the coursework could be completed online. Had the courses been entirely onsite, it would have posed a greater challenge for me.

In my first two years as a music major at the university, my schedule was quite packed, running from Monday to Thursday, 08:00-21:00, with additional weekend travel for ensemble performances. This would have been more manageable had I been a science major, where I could have taken four 4-credit courses once a week.

However, it's crucial to avoid overworking yourself to the point of exhaustion or making risky choices, such as driving when overly tired. It's essential to maintain a balance and ensure you don't burn out.

Kelly recommends the following next steps:

Look at what your schedule is and ensure there is enough time for all pieces of school and work.
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