Many people view college as a mandatory stepping stone that will help launch them to their end goal – a career. So what happens when you’re lucky enough to score a job while you’re a college student?
1. Prioritize school.
School should always come first. It’s important to think of yourself as a student with a job, not an employee who attends class. Odds are, your employer hired you as a part-time student worker. This means they should understand that this job is your second priority behind school.
2. Keep going to class.
It’s tempting enough to skip an 8 a.m. class without any real reason. Just remember – you probably got this job because you’re a college student. Believe it or not, these classes are providing you with skills that you’ll use in the workplace down the road.
3. Don’t get distracted by your paycheck.
Sure, earning little cash is always nice. But keep in mind that it’s nothing compared to the money you’ll be making after you graduate with a degree.
4. Use a planner.
I don’t care how organized you are – everyone has their off days. The more stressed you are, the more likely you are to let things slip through the cracks. You’re less likely to forget a commitment if you write it down. I’m personally obsessed with Google calendar, but if you prefer writing down your schedule in a physical planner, that works too.
5. Communicate.
Communication really is key. Keep an open dialogue with your boss about your class or test schedule. They want you to succeed, too!
6. Know that some things are going to have to give…and that it’s okay.
Now that you’re working and taking a full course load, you’re probably not going to have as much free time. You might be forced to choose between spending quality time with friends, going out, and sleeping early. That being said, as you’re now balancing work and school, it’ll become more important to make your time count.
7. Keep things in perspective.
This job or internship is an experience. Chances are, this isn’t the end all be all of jobs for you in your future. Get as much out of it as you can, but know that this doesn’t have to be your future.
Just remember that balancing a job and school is an accomplishment in itself!