Currently, I am finishing up my sophomore year at Florida State. Through the good and the bad, I have always found a way to make it to the next year, and if I can do it, you can, too. I recently became employed at the *incredible* Spear-It Legendary Food & Spirits this past March. I went through the training, became familiar with the environment, got my feet firmly planted on the ground, and then I realized I forgot all about the homework assignment that was due last week. Balancing your academics, social life, and now work is a tough task to handle, but with the right tricks and tips to stay on top of it all and a positive attitude, anything is possible.
First off, working thirty hours a week outside of school isn't for everyone, and don't hesitate to ask your employer for time off to focus on school. Always remember that first, you are a student, and no matter how important that second job may be, your future comes first. Cutting back on work is nothing to be ashamed of, and once you figure your schedule out it will be easy to maintain organization and stay on top of it all. Pro-tip: Always use a calendar. Even though it seems juvenile and unnecessary, writing out everything you need to do for the week really helps! It also doesn't hurt to make friends around wherever you work. Once you get comfortable with everyone, they are more than likely to help you out with your schedule, as long as you return the favor.
There isn't much else to it other than being positive. A smile really goes a long way, and even if you're having a rough day, remember that its only a secondary job! This is not how life is always going to be, and if you can get through this now, it really will pay off in a big way. It takes discipline and focus to be able to balance everything you've got going on. Be proud that you are working for the things you want more than anything, and like I said before, never forget to keep your chin up.
I haven't been working for long, and with this being my one month anniversary of becoming a working student, I realize how incredible the kids are who do what I do, and then some. Your professors, bosses, colleagues, and friends are all there to support you in these endeavours. Take advantage of the time you have now to figure out what it is like in the real world. These experiences we have now will only strengthen our backs, toughen our skin and mold us into the adults that we need to become to achieve success in the future.
Another pro-tip: *always* treat yo-self.
