8 answers
8 answers
Updated
David’s Answer
In my experience people that are successful in their careers are ALWAYS learning new skills. I recommend take the time while you are building your base education you learn how to study as efficiently and as effectively as possible along with learning how to schedule and balance ways to generate money. Learning and Working are never going to go anywhere, the trick is to find a way make them both fit into a happy life. "LIfe isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning how to dance in the rain." - Vivian Greene
Updated
Lyndsay’s Answer
I did not work while I went to the university. I worked my first two years of college then stopped working when I transferred to the university.
How I did it: 1) It's really hard to find a job that will work with a demanding university schedule. 2) Not working meant I could devote so much more time to school and school work. 3) I used student loans to pay my way and budgeted incredibly well. Student loans are only given at the beginning of the semesters so I had to put away money to pay for everything 6 months at a time. I only spent $100/month on food. I had enough money saved to pay all my bills and did NOTHING. No eating out, no parties, none of the "fun stuff" because it was more important to me to only focus on school. I also used the summer to work full time if I wasn't in school.
In my opinion, school is a full time job so not having another full time job is completely okay:)
How I did it: 1) It's really hard to find a job that will work with a demanding university schedule. 2) Not working meant I could devote so much more time to school and school work. 3) I used student loans to pay my way and budgeted incredibly well. Student loans are only given at the beginning of the semesters so I had to put away money to pay for everything 6 months at a time. I only spent $100/month on food. I had enough money saved to pay all my bills and did NOTHING. No eating out, no parties, none of the "fun stuff" because it was more important to me to only focus on school. I also used the summer to work full time if I wasn't in school.
In my opinion, school is a full time job so not having another full time job is completely okay:)
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
I studied and worked because there were experiences I wanted to have during my college years and those experiences cost money. I traveled and went to archeology school and made great memories, but I was always mindful of my studies and I made sure that my employers were also mindful of my studies. I chose employers that were flexible and understanding and I never allowed my grades to suffer. I would urge you to find the balance that is right for you.
Updated
Claire’s Answer
Hi Busisiwe A, What a great question, you will be working for a long time thru your life and so it is really important that you have the opportunity to enjoy yourself as much as possible when you can. There are some real benefits however to starting work early on, you gain great life experience, learn how to work with others and also get great references for your Resume.
I had my first jobs whilst studying, important thing is not to take on so many hours that you are always studying or working, try and find an employer who is supportive of your studies and is flexible when you need it.
I had my first jobs whilst studying, important thing is not to take on so many hours that you are always studying or working, try and find an employer who is supportive of your studies and is flexible when you need it.
Updated
Simeon’s Answer
Yes, it can be a great idea to be working and doing school at the same time. Even if you don't need it to make ends meet, college is less stressful with having extra cash on hand just in case you need it. I'd recommend taking a look at if you qualify for work-study jobs on campus as those can be especially nice to have. You can find perks like extra study time as a library/dorm desk worker or free food from working at the cafeteria.
Updated
Terry’s Answer
Hi busisiwe
I like all the answers here, but I really agree with George...BOTH
I like all the answers here, but I really agree with George...BOTH
Updated
Nadeem’s Answer
Hey Busisiwe,
I can give you an answer from my personal journey being a working student where I was working for a financial services firm whilst getting my undergraduate programme degree (Bachelors in Business Administration). There are some pros and cons to working and studying at the same time which I observed that are listed below:
Pros:-
1) Practise what you learn - what I was learning on a daily basis in my college became relevant to me at work and I actually got to practise those skills in a short period of time. Which helped learning become easier rather than having to memorize study materials. I would instantly apply my lessons into my work place which helped me build a more practical framework for my answers and create a mindset where I could still remember what I was taught during classes.
2) You can get professional help - If you have a firm which encourages you to study, you can use your colleagues to go through with your study materials given they have time to spend with you. You can also get feedback on your assignments etc from experienced professionals of the same field of study. Which can lead you to better marks.
3) Earn money to help with your course fees - This is a no brainer, where you can support yourself for your expenses and fees etc
4) Get ahead of the competition - As you will observe the job market nowadays is tough and there is always someone better with more work experience. If you are working while studying you can commulate work experience while you complete your degree, which means when you applying to more relevant jobs of your interest you have some form of work experience, which is more favourable for the hiring firm as they are hiring someone who is been in a organization and understand how they work.
5) Mature thinking - While working you will have to face situations in a different way and think more broadly of scenarios that otherwise would not come into play if you are studying alone, it becomes practical. As in a work space you will need to display skills like observations, listening, develop discipline , work ethics etc. You sort of get to know the world much faster.
Cons:
1) Stress - Doing both gets stressful and you will fatigue much sooner than expected. You will have too look after yourself and plan better which gets really taxing and stressful. This can also lead to lack in concentration at work or your studies.
2) Sacrificing personal interests- Not entirely true to the fill extend , but there will be scenarios where you will need to choose work/study over going out with friends or family or doing other fun things that interest you, again planning becomes key here.
3) Distraction from study - Work can sometime get too much to handle and can impact your studies and assignments if there is a work deadline. Your work line manager can help you overcome this if they are fully supporting you in your career development.
Conclusion:
Before making a decision, you must evaluate your interests and current situation. And remember that your highest priority is your studies no matter what. So, in case you still want a do a full/part-time job, you should try to work in the same field as your major. If working in the same field is not doable, you would still want to consolidate your social skills and your resume. Most likely,any job you do will improve your professional skills, even if it’s not in your field.
I can give you an answer from my personal journey being a working student where I was working for a financial services firm whilst getting my undergraduate programme degree (Bachelors in Business Administration). There are some pros and cons to working and studying at the same time which I observed that are listed below:
Pros:-
1) Practise what you learn - what I was learning on a daily basis in my college became relevant to me at work and I actually got to practise those skills in a short period of time. Which helped learning become easier rather than having to memorize study materials. I would instantly apply my lessons into my work place which helped me build a more practical framework for my answers and create a mindset where I could still remember what I was taught during classes.
2) You can get professional help - If you have a firm which encourages you to study, you can use your colleagues to go through with your study materials given they have time to spend with you. You can also get feedback on your assignments etc from experienced professionals of the same field of study. Which can lead you to better marks.
3) Earn money to help with your course fees - This is a no brainer, where you can support yourself for your expenses and fees etc
4) Get ahead of the competition - As you will observe the job market nowadays is tough and there is always someone better with more work experience. If you are working while studying you can commulate work experience while you complete your degree, which means when you applying to more relevant jobs of your interest you have some form of work experience, which is more favourable for the hiring firm as they are hiring someone who is been in a organization and understand how they work.
5) Mature thinking - While working you will have to face situations in a different way and think more broadly of scenarios that otherwise would not come into play if you are studying alone, it becomes practical. As in a work space you will need to display skills like observations, listening, develop discipline , work ethics etc. You sort of get to know the world much faster.
Cons:
1) Stress - Doing both gets stressful and you will fatigue much sooner than expected. You will have too look after yourself and plan better which gets really taxing and stressful. This can also lead to lack in concentration at work or your studies.
2) Sacrificing personal interests- Not entirely true to the fill extend , but there will be scenarios where you will need to choose work/study over going out with friends or family or doing other fun things that interest you, again planning becomes key here.
3) Distraction from study - Work can sometime get too much to handle and can impact your studies and assignments if there is a work deadline. Your work line manager can help you overcome this if they are fully supporting you in your career development.
Conclusion:
Before making a decision, you must evaluate your interests and current situation. And remember that your highest priority is your studies no matter what. So, in case you still want a do a full/part-time job, you should try to work in the same field as your major. If working in the same field is not doable, you would still want to consolidate your social skills and your resume. Most likely,any job you do will improve your professional skills, even if it’s not in your field.