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Last week, we explored the benefits of working full time as a student. Studying while working will require some sacrifices, particularly in your social life. Here are some tips and helpful hints on how to juggle your study, work and life.
- Manage your time: I know it’s easier said than done, but learning the art of time management is invaluable. Having a day view diary is useful, but using the calendar on your phone or tablet means you will always have your diary with you. I find that sitting down on a Sunday afternoon and planning your whole work/study week and what you have to accomplish really helps. I don’t advise leaving things to the last minute – it will only cause you pain and many sleepless nights!
- Have a goal: Setting yourself a goal each week can also assist you when it comes to keeping a work-study-life balance. You may have an assignment due and a friend's birthday party to attend the same weekend. Make it your goal at the start of the week to complete (or at least begin!) your assignment so that you can still have a life.
- Don’t procrastinate:
As has been said, 'Procrastination is like a credit card: it's a lot of fun until you get the bill.' Sometimes cleaning the oven, mowing the lawn or washing the walls may seem more appealing than starting or finishing an assignment, but remember, the earlier you start, the earlier you finish!
- Remember you are only human: Sometimes when it comes to work or study, we tend to bite off more than we can chew. Working full time in any role can have its pressures and demands, and adding study will only add more pressure, but try to remember that you can only do what you can do. If studying and working is becoming too hard, perhaps drop a unit of study and pick it up over summer or attend evening lectures. Try different approaches and methods, and I guarantee you will find one that works for you. There will always be a trade-off when you work and study at the same time, but the rewards are also much greater. Once you graduate, you will have all that practical work experience.
So there you have it. Maybe people that study and work really are crazy, or maybe they just enjoy the challenge. If you've ever found yourself thinking about studying while working, give it a try – you never know, it might work for you!
