Working while studying at university may seem challenging, but it can also offer advantages. These advantages include avoiding (or reducing) debt, gaining work experience, learning time management skills, improving academic success, and obtaining health benefits.
Avoiding or Reducing Debt
One of the things that many graduates face at the start is repaying student loans, but working while studying can help you reduce or avoid this type of debt. Generally, most people who work while studying have less student loan debt than those who do not work.
Working part-time and budgeting wisely can enhance what you earn over the summer to cover your educational expenses. Even if you do not want to work full-time or regularly, you might consider a side job to earn extra money and avoid debt.
Gaining Work Experience
Having work experience, especially in a field related to your studies, can help you become more competitive when you are ready to enter the full-time job market after graduation.
Check out the jobs and internships available at your university in your field of study. Some internships may be paid and can turn into part-time or full-time positions while you complete your degree, or they can help you build connections that may assist you in getting a job later.
The federal work-study program is also a great option that gives you the opportunity to earn a paycheck while gaining valuable work experience.
Learning Time Management Skills
Once you start working after graduating from college, you will likely have to juggle multiple projects and attend meetings. Learning to manage your time with classes and work will help you adapt more quickly.
You will also benefit from interacting with people in a work environment. There is a difference between dealing with people at school and engaging with people at work. These skills will make adapting to the real world outside of college much easier.
Learning how to manage your time effectively can help you perform better overall. Some students find that they perform better academically when they have a job because it means they have to plan their week carefully to find time to study.
Improving Academic Success Rates
Some students notice an improvement in their grades when they start working. This is often due to effectively organizing and planning study time.
However, there is a caveat: the number of hours worked can impact your academic success. Students who work 15 to 20 hours a week typically report higher success rates than those who do not work at all. However, it appears that working more than 20 hours a week negatively affects their grades.
It is important to work the right number of hours for you. The pressure should not be so great that it distracts you, and you should be able to stay on top of all your projects.
Receiving Employee Benefits
Many companies offer benefits to those who work part-time. This means you can begin contributing to a 401(k) retirement plan, qualify for health insurance, and possibly even a tuition assistance program while studying at university.
You might also be entitled to some benefits such as vacation and sick leave. This can alleviate the pressure of work enough when you’re not feeling well, and it can allow you to take breaks without worry. It may make it easier to manage your time and enjoy your time at university even though you need to work.
Tips
To Facilitate Work While Attending University
Look for a job with a set schedule. This may make it easier to plan your classes and study time. Look for a job that pays more than minimum wage. If you need to spend time working, make the most money possible. You might consider working in your field of study to gain work experience that will benefit you. Make sure to schedule time to relax and enjoy time with friends. It’s important to find a balance if you’re going to work while studying. Be sure to set aside a certain amount of money each month to help cover tuition and other fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many classes should I take during the semester while working?
These questions ultimately depend on the load you believe you can handle. If you need to maintain a “full-time student” status for tax benefits, check with your university to ensure you meet the minimum credit hour requirements.
How can I get money to live without working in college?
If you aren’t working and don’t have savings you can draw from, you will need to use a combination of student loans, grants, and scholarships to cover living expenses. Friends and family can help, but they may face gift taxes when their gifts exceed $16,000.
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Source: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/can-i-work-and-go-to-college-2386212
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