Getting To Work

Finding Balance

You want to work while in school? Fantastic! But before you learn about the different types of student jobs, you need to be aware of work-school balance. Balancing these 2 responsibilities is tricky, and without expertise, you can easily become burnt out. So, to make it easy for you, here are some ways to create a healthy work-school balance.

1. Plan your time-Think about your goals and responsibilities. Write them all in one schedule and block out the time for each one.

2. Prioritize-What is most important to you? Plan around it.

3. Take breaks-Plan for downtime. Taking care of your mental and physical health is key to balancing your commitments

4. Work smarter, not harder-Where are the gaps in your schedule? Maybe you could practice study terms during your commute. All of your time can be used wisely.

5. Take advantage of time flexibility-Does your school or workplace make accommodations for working students?

Working While In School

Working is a great way to earn money for school. You can gain work experience, develop job skills and network with professionals, which are all important factors in starting your career after finishing school. Plus, you gain money to go towards paying for your education at the same time. There are many ways students can work for their money. Student jobs can be split into 3 categories: On-Campus, Off-Campus, and Co-Op.

Working On-Campus

Working on-campus means that you work in school facilities. This includes positions like Library Assistant, Research Assistant, and Peer Tutor. To get a job on-campus, you'll need to do a couple of things:

• Research

Ask professors, visit your student help center or browse the school website to find job listings. There are a limited number of on-campus jobs, find the ones that interest you most and will help you build skills.

• Apply Early

Since on-campus jobs are competitive, you'll want to apply early. The application form is usually on your school website. If you have the advantage of applying to work for one of your professors, make connections beforehand. Networking is a major way to make you look more hirable.

• Be Prepared

Practice some interview questions and dress professionally.

Pros

-Networking opportunity within your university

Working on-campus is a great way to make connections with professors and other professionals at your institution. This will come in handy when you need a reference letter after graduation.

-Short commute

If you are living on campus or nearby, you practically live at work. Since you are also taking classes while working, saving commute time means you have more time to study, or just relax.

-Work with your passions

This depends on what job you can land, but on-campus jobs are a convenient way to work with your passions. For example, someone who has a passion for teaching and communicating ideas would make a great peer tutor.

-Build your skills

On-campus jobs are great for building skills for your resume. For example, being a campus tour guide is a great way to build public speaking skills.

Cons

-Minimum wage

Though you are using skills more relevant to your studies, on-campus jobs pay around the same as minimum wage.

-Limited options

On-campus jobs are competitive, so there's usually only a selection of positions you can apply for.

-No work during breaks

Unlike off-campus jobs, you are out of work during breaks because the university is closed.

Working Off-Campus

Like high school jobs, post-secondary students may choose to work off-campus at restaurants, retail stores, or grocery stores. To get an off-campus job, you'll need to:

• Fill out an application and attach a resume

Most employers have a section on their website where you can fill out an application form and upload your resume. Make sure all of your information is up to date!

• Be prepared

Like on-campus jobs, dress professionally and practice your interview questions beforehand.

Pros

-Learn how to manage your time

Finding a balance between work and school is a great way to build time management skills. Managing your time effectively will prepare you for your career after school.

-Can pay more than minimum wage

If you can find a job at a luxury store, a fancy restaurant, or an establishment that requires your specific skill set, you're much more likely to be paid more than minimum wage.

-Experience the job market

Jobs off campus are in the real world job market. This is a great way to learn the ropes.

-Expanding your connections

It may not seem like working a part-time job would help you network, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Even in part-time jobs, you can make meaningful connections with colleagues, both professionally and personally.

Cons

-Takes up your extra time

Time spent working is time you won't get to spend studying or with loved ones. Keep in mind the importance of time management to balance your work with school and social life.

-Your job may not be related to your degree

Many part-time jobs off-campus that are available to you will not be related to your degree or certificate. However, it is not unimaginable that you could get a job off-campus that is related to your studies. Do some research, find what works for you.