University and part-time work

Question

Does anyone who is currently or has previously studied towards a Bachelors degree have any comments about how working part-time has effected their university studies? How many hours is too many? Do you think it is better to fully concentrate on your studies and not work at all or does having a job have a greater benefit?

Answer 1

definately work! i found that once i went over about 20hrs a week my studies werent so good. but working is great cos employers prefer people who have worked, you meet new people, get more variety etc :)

Answer 2

i don't think that a good student should work during studies

Answer 3

I had two jobs and a child when I went to college. You should be able to work at least half time (40 hrs/week), more if you're good at time management.

Answer 4

I think working is good, but remember, school comes before work.

If you can handle working part time (20 or less) and school, then go for it.If your grades are starting to slide after you got a job, then maybe you should quit and focus on your studies because whether or not a part time job has any effect on your studies depends on you and how you manage it.  

Answer 5

When I first started out I was working 55 hours a week and taking 12 credit hours. I got a 3.7 gpa that semester. Then I took a history course and an on-line course with two other courses which was 14 credit hours. I didn't do too well that semester and I was working about 45 hours a week. Work affected my studies because I don't do well with internet courses and I absolutely have no interest in history (general education) that semester I got a 3.35 gpa. This year I am going to only work 20 since I am aiming for a 4.0.

I think work does have an impact, but the courses that you take also have an impact as well as the new environment of college and your ability to manage your time. Some good advice is to try to get a job at the university that you are going to since they will be more sensitive to your needs at school than other employers will be.

You can also join the organizations that you have at school this will make it easier to meet new people who you share an interest with. Any organization that is either a professional or academic organization will have people that can help you with your studies, if you need it.