Study and work at the same time: 7 tips to achieve it

Studying and working at the same time is something that many students are choosing to do. Many carry out both activities at the same time due to the need to balance accounts: paying tuition and the expenses of university life. Others, however, take it as a personal choice, as a sacrifice to achieve a higher level of independence as it is giving them the qualifications and confidence they need to gain a good head start during their career years.

If you are considering looking for a job compatible with your studies, this article will give you top tips on how to study while working, to help you be able to balance the two.

Tips for studying and working at the same time

Each case is different: the standard of living in the city, the versatility of each person, the requirement of each job … But whatever your situation, the following list of tips will come in handy if you are going to study and work at the same time.

1. Prioritise studies

It is something basic, but it should not be forgotten: although you are going to study and work at the same time, the most important activity is the first, while the second is only complementary. Don’t lose sight of it! Therefore, your job must revolve around your classes. Choose a job that does not make you miss class and that does not physically exhaust you, so that you can perform 100% during the course and during exam time.

2.Don’t sacrifice your time

The job you find should not only allow you to go to class, but also enjoy free time daily or, failing that, weekly to be able to do what you like: see your friends, play sports, escape to your place of origin… If your routine is only made up of study and work without rest, you will be letting go of unforgettable moments, which are only lived in the university era.

3. Set yourself realistic goals

You don’t need to start obsessively saving for your first home now or plan your trip around the world traveling in your first year. Setting realistic goals will help you to not decrease the amount of pressure, as it will be so easy to bite off more than you can chew. Setting up a realistic budget which looks for the balance between saving for the future but also keep in mind that you can only do what you are able to do.

4. A career-related job

Most of the jobs that will be presented to you during your college years will be little more than a simple source of income for your expenses. But if you are lucky enough to find something related to your studies, much better. Of course, your University will have a company internship management department, but they are usually focused on students in the last years of their studies and with a rather low remuneration. In any case, do not give up and, if you are presented with a well-paid and enriching job, take the opportunity.

5. Become a fellow at your own University

One of the most recommended options for those who want to study and work at the same time is to become a fellow of your faculty. They are usually simple jobs, not physically demanding, two steps from your class and with schedules fully compatible with your career. And to the surprise of many, they are not underpaid. Get informed on your campus.

6. Working from home, option for the future … and for the present

Working from home is here to stay. And when you fully enter the labor market, it will be one more option for many employees, with a fully developed regulatory framework. If you want to try it, make sure you have the right means to do it: computer or tablet, a quiet space like a workplace and a good Internet connection. These facilities and many others will be at your disposal in Collegiate AC, where you can enjoy the tranquility of private spaces and also common spaces designed for all the needs of students.

7. Everything in order, please

Okay, there are still many years left until your retirement, but if you’re going to study and work at the same time, make sure everything is legal. If the hours you work in this period are going to mean, for example, half a year of contribution in your career, you will appreciate it later. And if something unforeseen occurs, having everything in order will guarantee adequate coverage.

Have you taken good note of these recommendations on how to study and work at the same time? Well, you can also take a look at other more specific tips about our student residences in Madrid and Valencia. You will find content of interest to you in our student news section. Have everything ready for these momentous years in your life!