It’s not uncommon for students to have a job while they pursue their higher education. In fact, I’d be willing to bet that the majority of college students are struggling through classes and school work, only to leave campus and clock in for hours at a time at their job. 

In my experience, working has made college more difficult. It’s hard to balance two separate realities—one where you are learning and working toward an end result, and another where you are required to focus on an obligation. Both of these realities, which are mentally draining in their own ways, require commitment. Dedicating time and effort to both of them is necessary, so it can feel like there isn’t enough time for both. Especially if you’d like to maintain your mental health or your social life. 

College is supposed to be a time for focusing on your interests and meeting new people.  For a lot of us, it isn’t realistic to attend college without working. Students rely on these jobs to pay for food, gas and, in most cases, tuition. This means that without these emotionally draining jobs, a lot of students wouldn’t even get the chance to go to school. So, how is it possible to do both? 

I finally found what works for me—a good balance between work, school and my social life. Here’s a few tips on how I manage to clock in at work while maintaining my grades and keeping my head above water. 

1. If possible, be picky about the job you are working

This is definitely easier said than done, seeing as a lot of us are sending job applications out into the void in the hopes that even one of them will respond. However, if possible, try to find a job with shorter shifts and a flexible schedule. It’s not practical to work 8-hour shifts when you’re expected to attend class and do homework on the same day. My job offers 4-hour shifts, the perfect amount of time for me to make money and get back on campus with time left in the day to rest, eat and start on my homework. This has worked for me so far, especially because my boss is willing to work around my schedule. I only work certain days of the week in order to give myself a break and the time to get back on track if I start to fall behind. 

2. Take one day for yourself

Keeping one day of the free from activity is super important. If you are constantly working and learning, you will quickly burn out without rest. Of course, this day can still include homework or assignments, but if you want to stay at home all day to reset or go hang out with friends, you will have this cushion to fall back on. This also gives you something to look forward to during the week. The day is yours to use however you like. I never work on Sundays, and it’s the perfect day for me to sleep in, finish any remaining assignments and reset before the week ahead of me.

3. Avoid putting off your school work until the last minute

One of the most difficult things about college is doing the work, especially when you don’t have the luxury of time. I have found that it pays off in the long run to do the work as it comes. Don’t get me wrong, it’s so easy to put the work off and ignore it until you absolutely have to do it, but you’ll thank yourself when the assignment is turned in without stress. Getting it done early will ensure that the work is done well and frees up some time at the end of the week if you want to relax. You’ll want to maximize your time if you want to balance work and college, and getting your work done early is the best way to do it.