How Many Hours of Work Should You Take While Studying?December 06, 2019

You have found out that you need a job to pay for your living expenses, and it's a good thing that you figure it out this early. You only need to work on a part-time basis, but the question is how long how you must work.

You may not like the idea of working on the side after you recall your first visit to your university. You envy one student petting a short-haired cat while another is immersed in desk yoga. The last one seems strange until your brother recall a small group of middle-aged women meditating under the sun (in Taiwan). It's the last thing you want to remember, as working would mean that you can't go on holiday during your studies. This is not the right time to fall into gloom especially during this (warm) season. If there's a will, there's a way.

The first thing to consider is the coursework. You must not lose your focus, not even sacrifice your studying for a little wage. (You're not a full-time professional yet.) It's all about patience, which is not a common trait among teenagers. It can be done, though.

4 Factors to Consider When Looking for a Part-Time Job

Look for job opportunities within the university. If you're based in Sydney, the beach won't be a good reason to look for a job in the city. Time would be an issue especially if your program requires lots of reading. There are many shops in campus, where you get a chance to meet an international student (who must work on a part-time basis), No need to worry about lack of socialisation, as you might learn about volunteering in another country. It's a bit late to defer your entry, even if you're fascinated at fellow students who would go to wintry Korea and teach English to a small group of children not far from the big cities like Seoul. You might want to think about it after you finish your program, as there are other interesting jobs to consider. How about cafes? What about bars? Have you inquired about part-time opportunities during O-Week? The answer to those questions would lead to the next item.

Make sure that you understand the details of the contract (or agreement) before signing up. You must not be complacent after making inquiries about part-time opportunities in the campus. You're confident about your CV, even think that your communication skills would impress employers. And you're aware that you would be working on a flexible schedule. Find out the extent of flexibility. Moreover, you must know what happens if there would be unforeseen circumstances (like you lag behind your writing of one of your assignments). And you must know what to do if you become overwhelmed about the papers and examinations that come in succession. Make your schedule know to the people you would work with. Furthermore, you must notify your (soon-to-be) employers in advance. Read (and reread) the contract (or agreement), and ask questions to ensure that you fully understand what you're getting into. The wage may not be worth it in the long run.

Health is your top priority. If you choose a shift, you must keep your studies in mind. In other words, it would better to study and attend your lectures before you do your shift. Keep in mind that working could be exhausting in most days, and you may be too tired (for studying) on some days. You may think that you're energetic, but the coursework would be more demanding than you think.

You can learn a thing or two from your wealthier coursemates. Richer students have the luxury of doing volunteering work, which would be related, if not relevant, to their program. It should give them a lead after receiving their undergraduate degree. You need the money, so you can consider a paid internship. Look back at the previous items before you determine that this option would be good enough. If you're insistent on taking it, you should know that there would be days when you struggle to keep your study-work balance Expect to make some sacrifices, if not a thing or two might suffer. (You might miss a lecture. You can't ask your course mate to record it for you.) Proximity would be the deciding factor, but success rewards the bold.

What Pointers Must You Remember

There's no doubt that your immediate goal is to put some money into your pocket, which would ease your mind (and help you focus on your studies). If you're a beneficiary of a scholarship, don't overthink about debt (or other expenses). Try to be the best ambassador of your university, which would reward those who commit to it. Are you ready for the challenge?

It's OK if you're hesitant, if not willing to pursue this option. You can talk to your parents, even defer your entry and look for a job. Don't be discouraged if this should be a likely outcome, as good things would happen to those who persevere in getting a degree. Ask your tutor, if not a final-year student.

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