How do you juggle being a full-time student and working part-time?

Eric,

First, I want to commend you for being a full-time student and working part-time! It is not easy to do and you have a lot on your plate. I have a few recommendations for you:

(1) Find a class and work schedule that works well for your style of studying. What I mean by that is that some people do really well in having back-to-back commitments such as class from 9 AM - 2 PM and work from 3 PM - 8 PM, while others prefer large chunks of time in between commitments to allow for relaxation or study time. Figure out what rhythm and cadence allows you to feel the most productive.

(2) Get organized! Whether it's keeping notes for yourself in your phone, writing things down in a planner, keeping an online calendar, or anything else, make sure you have a way to keep on top of all of your commitments. Learning how to be organized helps ease the stress and also allows you to make sure you carve out time to relax.

(3) Make sure you make time for something you really enjoy. Whether it's joining an organization or picking up a hobby, taking care of yourself is very important when you have a demanding class and work schedule. Don't forget to make time for yourself and your happiness!

(4) Ask for help when you need it. Take advantage of resources on-campus such as Academic or Career Advising or tutoring centers. These resources exist to help you and since you have so much to juggle, finding and knowing about resources that will be helpful for you will help you in the long run.

Good luck!

Hi Eric - it's never easy! I was a full-time student and worked full-time to put myself through school so I can definitely understand the challenge. Planning and goal setting were keys to my success. I went to school during the day and worked nights so it was critical for me to look ahead at my schedule and plan it out accordingly. Every weekend I spent about an hour looking at the week ahead and tried to anticipate as much as possible. I mapped out times to study, work overtime (I always needed extra money), and socialize. Were my plans always perfect...no! But having goals and a plan gave me a clear picture of what I was required to do vs what I might like to do and ultimately I had to make the right choices. Good luck in your endeavors - it is a lot to juggle but I am confident you will feel a great sense of accomplishment for all of your hard work and efforts!

Hi Eric!

Here are some tips from a fellow student:
https://www.unigo.com/in-college/college-experience/creating-a-workschool-balance-a-college-student-perspective
http://www.wikihow.com/Balance-School-and-Work-as-an-Adult

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).

Set a routine.Use Google Calendar.Set aside Me TimeWrite weekly to-do lists and use a planner.Find a peaceful and restful activity that will help you feel relaxed.