When I took on the challenge of working 40 hours a week and taking 18 credit hours of classes at Kennesaw State University this fall, I was not fully prepared for the work and stress that would be ahead of me. Even though I have worked full-time and gone to school part-time and vice versa, this semester was the first time I attempted both at the same time. For anyone who is considering doing the same or similar in the future, (internships, anyone?) there are some things you need to know.
1. Thou shalt use a planner.
Purchasing and filling out your planner at the beginning of the semester is an absolute must, which is why it's at the top of this list. Making sure you know when work and school will be at their busiest during the semester is essential to maintaining high grades and a low stress level.
2. Thou shalt be honest with everyone.
When you decide to take on the challenge of working and going to school full time, there is honestly no way to fully mentally prepare yourself. An essential step to making sure you succeed on this journey is to be upfront with your employers and professors from the beginning. Setting expectations early on is the only way to prevent overload when assignments at work and school start piling up. If you have the opportunity, try to set up an internship for class credit with your employer. Since you’re going to be there already, you might as well get school credit for it too!
3. Thou shalt say “no.”
Whether it’s that party after class or an extra assignment at work, knowing when you are at full capacity is essential to maintaining your sanity. Choose your social commitments wisely, and be honest with your employer about your workload to prevent a mental breakdown.
4. Thou shalt eat your vegetables.
When you are extremely busy it becomes difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Choosing meals and snacks for your week when you grocery shop should be based both on nutritional value and time commitment. If you know you're going to be busy the following week, prepare meals that you know will be nutritionally fulfilling and will carry you through the day.
5. Thou shalt relax.
Even though you are busy, it is essential to make sure you have some time set aside for rest and relaxation. Make sure you take a couple hours a week to do what makes you happy, whether that’s hitting the gym or vegging out on the couch.
6. Thou shall not go out on the night before class or work.
If you are working or have class on Friday, take it seriously. Going out with your friends on a Thursday night can seem like a good idea at the time, but it will wreck your plan for semester success faster than anything. Remember to think of the long-term benefits rather than the short-term fun when planning social events.
7. Thou must go out on the weekend.
In correspondence with rest and relaxation is making sure you have a bit of a social life outside of our classmates and coworkers. Planning a day out with friends will help refresh and reset your mind in a way unparalleled by a research paper. Whether you meet for brunch or hit the night scene, make sure you take time out to remind your friends that you still exist as a human rather than just a zombie.
8. Thou shalt shower.
As simple as it sounds, taking care of yourself nightly can become a burden when your mind is so busy with assignments and work projects. Shower yourself, brush your teeth and wear deodorant because nobody else is going to do it for you. If you smell bad, nobody is going to want you in their class or office, meaning that you’re not going to get the help you need and meaning your end-goal is potentially in jeopardy.
9. Thou shalt sleep.
More than anything, getting a good night’s sleep is vital to keeping your sanity during an ultra-busy schedule. Most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep a night to recuperate from the day and repair itself. A rested brain will operate more efficiently, and you'll be happier. It’s a win-win.
10. Thou shalt finish the semester(s).
Ultimately, work your a** off is to reach your goal – whatever it is. Make sure that you actually make it to the end to see the results of that work. Remember that you are strong, and there are only 15 weeks in a semester. Take it day by day.
