If you’re worried about managing your studies and work, you’re not alone. In fact, in the United States, more than 70% of full-time college students are working. Simultaneously handling a job while studying requires thorough planning and prioritization, but it’s not always easy to do.
Whether you’re a working student trying to pay your tuition fees or professional undertaking CNA courses and training to advance your skills, balancing studying and working can be overwhelming — but it is achievable.
Here are the best tips for managing your studies and work.
Keep Everyone Informed
If you have a job, having your work and study schedules clash is bound to happen if you don’t inform the right people beforehand. To avoid this, let your employer and co-workers when you’re not available in advance, from class times to exams, ensure you tell them ahead of time. The same goes for your professors and other university staff.
Create a Schedule and Stick With It
Making a schedule is a great way to see your priorities and the amount of time you need to finish everything. When making one, ensure you include everything, from your class times, work times to due dates. This way, you’ll know when you have free time and schedule leisure and social time. After all, everyone needs a break.
Take Advantage of Technology
There are plenty of study apps that can help you find the best ways to study, such as making flashcard-like notes for you around specific topics of your choice. It makes it easier for you to focus on the subject and memorize crucial information, helping you always be one step ahead of your classes.
Do Everything in Advance
You can’t expect to do your best in school or at your job when you stayed up all night studying for an exam or doing your assignments last minute. Don’t wait till the last minute for these tasks, and break down your projects in school and tasks at work into smaller steps or goals and check them off as you finish. Doing everything in advance can ensure better performance at work and school while reducing your stress levels.
Learn How to Manage Stress
Learning how to manage stress can go a long way in ensuring a healthy mind and a happier you, and you can do this in several ways. It’s just a matter of choosing what works best for you. Activities such as reading a book, practicing yoga, or meditating during the day can help you significantly reduce stress.
Set Boundaries
If someone asks you to do something that can get in the way of your studies or work and it’s not very important, say no. Learning how to say ‘no’ is one of the simplest ways to keep the balance of your work and study life. After all, you can’t do everything, so set realistic boundaries.
Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself
Lastly, taking care of yourself is the most crucial thing you need to manage your work and study life. From eating the right foods, staying physically active, to getting enough sleep, all these can help ensure a healthier and more productive you.
Although studying while working can give you financial security and a better chance to grab a job faster in the future, it also instills a lot of stress. Fortunately, following any of the tips mentioned can help you balance and manage study and work better — helping you stay on track with your goals while ensuring your health and happiness.
