I know a lot of people whose parents alleviate the pressure of having to handle the stress of a job and being a full-time student. And while, sometimes, I envy them greatly, I like the idea of earning my own money and having something to be responsible for. Although that sounds like complete BS, it is true, even though it can be very difficult, at times.
Between rushing around from class to work to the library and back to class, it gets exhausting. Sitting in certain classes, hearing teachers list off assignment after assignment for the upcoming week as your phone buzzes with an email detailing your work schedule might send you off to scream into a pillow. You may be tempted to just throw in the towel and submit to your cozy bed. While it seems scary and impossible that there will ever be enough hours in the day to complete everything you need to, it is possible. And reminding yourself of this is the first step to balancing having a job and maintaining good grades as a full-time student. Here are a few tips to successfully walk the tightrope.
Prioritize.
For me, the order of importance of everything I have to do on any given day is constantly shifting through my mind. Think about what you absolutely have to do and think about things you can let go. Say you have long readings due for two different classes, tomorrow. You know that you'll be quizzed on one reading, but the other class is simply just discussion. The answer seems obvious: spend more time reading for the quiz and if you have to, simply skim the other one. This may be the day to just sit back and listen to others discuss the reading, taking notes to be prepared for next time. What if you're being quizzed on both? Focus on the one that counts more toward your grade if you don't have time to study both readings thoroughly.
Make lists.
While I understand that not everyone is a list maker, it is a huge help. It allows you to see everything you need to do and when. Obviously, this doesn't apply simply to quizzes and readings. Try this with tests, hanging out with friends, going to the gym, writing papers and even going to work. School always comes first, so if you're swamped it may not be a bad idea to explain to your boss that you need to cut back on hours if possible, which goes back to the idea of prioritizing.
College comes with a lot of school work and having a job on top of it is never easy. But, you can do it all through staying organized to maintain your sanity. Having a job throughout school will teach you some valuable skills you will need for the future -- especially time management. However, it's important to never forget that school work should always come first.
