Is Working Part-time For College Students Good or Bad?

Given that class schedules are more flexible in tertiary degree, students use this chance to earn money by getting part-time jobs. But are they able to harvest benefits from studying and working at the same time?

Experience is the best teacher

You might have come across online shops owned by students. These young entrepreneurs are maybe doing something related to their studies. While many students ‘study’ things for its own sake and complain that they are useless, these enterprising students strive to use what they have learned.

Example, the large spectrum of expertise that is applied when a student starts his online shop includes financial accounting, inventory management, commerce and entrepreneurship. Being able to apply textbook knowledge to real life enhances your learning capabilities and able you to relate more in class discussion as learning is applied it into action.

Communication skills

Working while studying does not necessarily mean that the student reports in the office consistently. Sometimes, you could work a freelance writer or translator in an editorial firm. This is when your communication skills come into play. Working from a distance requires you to communicate closely with your co-workers to ensure that work is done accordingly. Through this, you could expect to see an improvement in your communication skills which will definitely help you in the future.

Time issues

If you play dual role of a working and studying simultaneously, you might face time-management issues. An increased workload could translate into insufficient rest or poor work-life balance. While you see many of your peers enjoying their life in college, you would be working. In this case, it really depends on how you look at this issue. No matter what work it is that you are doing, make sure it is worth the time and effort.

Academic performance

Do not forget that your main obligation, as a student, is to score good grades. Although it is not always the case, employers prioritise students who ace their exams above average or less-than- average exam scorers when hiring. Shouldering extra commitments such as part-time jobs might distract you from your studies. If you face this problem, you must be able to sort out your priorities.

While you are concerned that working while studying might distract you from focusing on your studies, be aware that the skills that you gain from work might complement your study skills to help you achieve good academic scores! You might also be able to develop your soft skills and accumulate valuable experiences that would come in handy when you start your career. Working and studying are not entirely dichotomous – if you are able to achieve an optimal equilibrium between the two, you are one step closer to success.