Like myself, many full-time college students choose to work part-time to either save money, help their parents with pricey college expenses, or just to have extra pocket change. Whatever the reason, student workers leave college ready for the world beyond textbooks, libraries, late night snacking, fraternity functions, and trips to the local watering hole. Here are a handful of valuable things students learn while working their way through school.
1. The value of a dollar.
Student workers learn just how much time and effort it takes to earn money. Rather than constantly asking their parents every time their bank account is running low, they will pick up an extra shift at work or spend conservatively to make up for the lack of funds.
2. Time management.
While working 15-20 hours a week in addition to having a 15+ hour course load, time management is essential for a balanced lifestyle. Without it, you can kiss sleep and a social life goodbye. Everyone is capable of going to church regularly, excelling in school, devoting time to friends, exercising, cooking healthy meals, getting 7-8 hours of sleep, AND having a job. The key is having a planner to stay organized and deciding on how you will spend your time in advance.
3. How to study efficiently.
I think I speak for most college students when I say that I want to allocate the smallest amount of my time to studying. Knowing when your exams are in advance and having a study plan allows you to prepare in advance rather than spending days cramming in the library.
4. How to manage a bank account and pay bills.
Many students rely fully on their parents to manage their finances, so they aren't as prepared when they graduate. Even if you don't have a part-time job, it is important to learn how to budget and manage your money responsibly.
5. It's a risk-free way to learn what you like and what you are good (or bad) at in a professional setting.
Part-time jobs are impermanent which is a huge advantage for college students. It gives students flexibility. You can be as invested or committed to a part-time job as you want to be. So, if you get a job and you hate it, put in your two weeks notice and apply for something else. You don't have to sign a contract like you would for a full time job, so it's the perfect way to test the waters.
