UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS
Managing Work and School
Although school is the number one priority for many of us, jobs provide income and experience. Deciding which of those parts of life are most valuable can be hard.
Along with a full-time class schedule, I work part time handling reception at a spa. My classes may run into the late afternoon, and there are additional hours keeping up with papers, reading, and group projects. Sometimes at work I have to catch up on reading for class. Between making appointments and client paperwork, a few chapters on marketing or international retailing can be squeezed in. After factoring in commuting, a schedule like that can threaten to put one over the edge. Parents may say that is too much on the plate, but there is no other way to accomplish all that needs to be done.
It may help to remember that where we place our energy is a choice. I like to be busy and keep my priorities straight, and choose to go to school full time and put full effort into my classes. I also take part in all the extra school-related activities that I can. It may sound ironic, but sometimes I feel that the chaos keeps me sane. We made a choice to prepare ourselves for the real world, and in the real world we will have multiple demands on us.
Never forget to have some fun, whether getting a manicure or pedicure, going to a movie, or taking a walk in the park, even if pleasure and work have to overlap a bit. Maybe meet the girls for lunch between classes? Phone your best friend on your work break?
A good night’s sleep keeps me focused with a few cups of coffee here and there. A cell phone makes it easy to make appointments and set reminders, but I prefer the good old planner I throw in my pocketbook. Whether for final’s week or a busy workday, a strong drive is the only thing that will get you through.
--Jennifer Basch
Further Reading on Time Management, Procrastination, & Reaching Goals:
http://selfhelpcoaching.org/blog/tag/time-management-for-students
Topics: student life, Student Advice