Your refund check is running low and you’re parents can’t support you whenever you want them to. When bills start piling up or you realize you can’t splurge on the things you want, what’s the first thing that comes to you’re mind?
Get a job!
As a college student, you may need or want to work.
Whatever your motives are, money is what you’re looking for at the moment to make life a little easier.
There are two types of working students: students who work in order to pay their bills and workers who take a few classes in college.
Students who work are typically part-time workers unlike workers who take a few classes.
Workers who take a few classes are usually full-time making it harder to obtain their degree in four years. However, based on their situation, it can vary.
Students with part-time jobs.
Students who are part-time can benefit from their work experience.
Working a minimum of 10 hours can help students learn how to multitask—balancing their academics and work.
The Federal Work Study (FWS) Program, if qualified, can help students get part-time jobs on their college campus. When filling out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), make sure you mention that you would like to be considered for FWS.
Students with full-time jobs.
Full-time students tend to have a tougher time getting by in college. These students are usually working for a living.
Their grade point average (GPA) is also at a greater risk of dropping when compared to students who are part-time. They are also more likely to drop out of school because of stress, they have to focus on providing for themselves or others, or they’ve gotten too caught up with making money.
Considerations:
If you’re planning on holding down a job while maintaing school, here are some factors you should consider.
– Will I be able to balance my academics, a job and any other extra curricular activities?
– Do I have good time management skills?
– What are my study habits?
– How organized am I?
It’s important to weigh out the pros and cons of working while in school. Understand the sacrifices you have to make and be careful to not schedule school and work at the same time. Also, don’t forget to schedule relaxation time due to the fact that overworking yourself can make you too stressed or sick.
