If you've attended or are still attending college, you understand how much effort goes into keeping your G.P.A. up. The coursework isn't terrible, it's the time management that gets you. There are times whenever you feel as though there just aren't enough hours in the day. With that being said, there's no way on Earth a college student could balance school work and a job, right?
Wrong, my friend.
There are several students that I know, along with myself, that work part-time while being in school. It can become a load at times, but it all pays off in the end. Studying at work when there is nothing else to do is always an option, AND you can find a job that fits in well with your school schedule. It's all about being flexible.
So why have a job while you are in college? Aren't you in school to find a job later?
While that may be true, having a job while you are in college teaches you a lot of things that those who don't have jobs might not learn about so soon.
I have a job because I pay my own rent. I chose to come to school in Baton Rouge, so I will pay the rent. My parents help me whenever I need it, but it's nice to have some sort of independence whenever you've been living with your parents for most of your life. Having a job also allows me to gain a sense of monetary value. I now understand that eating Taco Bell or Popeye's every or every other night doesn't do much good for your bank account. It also feels really good to have your own money and know how much work you put into getting that money. I have a greater sense of appreciation for my parents now, too. I know how much work it takes to stand on your feet for hours just to make not so much money in one day. And I also understand how much money it costs to feed one mouth, much less four or five or more.
I'm not saying that those college kids that don't work don't already understand these things. All I'm saying is that personally, I would have never known how much effort it takes to live and supply for yourself and others.
I'm grateful that my parents still help me out. I am so very blessed. But I am also grateful that I have the opportunity to go to school 14 hours a week and also work 18+ hours a week. It may sound difficult and crazy, but balancing a job with college work might be a smart thing for you to do. Take it easy on yourself at first, and work from there. And if you can't handle it, hey, at least you tried.