More than half of all students have a job, which means they try to combine work and school. Unlike their wealthier, non-working peers, this can leave students at a disadvantage; This affects their grades and puts them under enormous pressure, which can be detrimental to their mental health.
Combining work and school is often difficult, but not impossible. With a little strategic planning, you can stay afloat at work and school without sacrificing your sanity and mental or physical health.
Choose a flexible study option
Choosing a flexible study option means that you can fit school into your life instead of structuring your life around school. One way to achieve this is by taking your course online rather than in person. For example, if you want to become a GP nurse, you would choose one flexible online curriculum FNP program.
Modern technology has made it possible to achieve your dreams and earn a degree without ever setting foot on a college campus. A flexible online degree allows you to work where and when it suits you and your needs.
Set boundaries and be realistic
School administrators recommend that students work 10 to 15 hours per week, leaving plenty of time for studying, socializing and sleeping. For some students, this is simply not realistic. Working 10-15 hours a week doesn’t make enough money, and it’s no wonder 70% of the students are stressed about finances. Low-income and minority students tend to work longer hours than their high-income peers. This can eat away at precious hours that you could be spending on other things.
One option is to be open with both your boss and your teachers about the fact that you have to juggle both work and school. Ask for extensions if necessary, schedule classes around your work commitments and, if possible, find a job close to home (or university) so you don’t waste too much time traveling.
Be realistic when making a plan. Don’t let work become your life, and don’t feel guilty about not taking on extra shifts, turning down volunteer work, and opting out of optional workplace social gatherings.
Try to find a job that is relevant to your studies
It is not always realistic or even possible for your job to align with your long-term academic or career goals. While high-income students can work to pursue their passions and interests, lower-income students must work to survive, leaving less room to be picky.
When you have to work to survive, you may choose a high-paying job over one that makes you happier but pays much less. If you have multiple high-paying jobs, choose the one that aligns with your passions and goals. Working in the field you are studying gives you the opportunity to put your new skills and knowledge to the test straight away, and conversely you can apply practical experience to your academic work.
Make time to rest
It may seem counterproductive, but it takes some time not working or studying will work wonders. It can be difficult to rest and rest when you have a million and one things on your mind, but it’s essential to schedule time to relax.
Schedule some time every day or two to get your brain out of study mode. If your head is full of deadlines and assignments, write them all down so you can let them slide, knowing you can always get to them later.
Rest can mean different things to different people. Rest is whatever fills you up – whether that’s taking a nap, gaming, hanging out with friends, exercising or taking a bubble bath. If you don’t make time for rest, your body will force you to rest. Getting too exhausted and burned out won’t do you any good.
Listen to your body
Your body has a great way of telling you what it needs. Don’t ignore it!
Learning to recognize the signs of burnout and fighting it before it becomes too serious is critical for students. If you often find yourself running out of energy, you may be taking on too much. Your mental health is of utmost importance, so don’t put it on the back burner to focus on school and work. Stress is normal, but it can be harmful to your long-term health if it becomes too extreme and continues for a long time.
Make time for yourself and your needs. For many people, college is their first taste of true independence. You are responsible for your own schedule, but with work and school taking up so much of your time, it’s all too easy to forget to get enough sleep, nutrition, and health checks. These will all contribute to increased energy, motivation and an overall sense of well-being.
Remember, it won’t stay this way forever
Keep your future self in mind: you’re doing this for them! One day, this stressful time will be a distant memory and you will be working at your dream job. Try to enjoy this time. You will never be so young and free again.
