Gina Said:

Question to college students who have jobs?

We Answered:

First, I looked for a job that understands that I am a student, and I told them my priorities (school first than anything else).
Everytime a new semester starts, I turn turn my class schedule ahead of time -- like in early-mid november for spring semester (which starts in late Jan) so that my boss and I can talk about it, compromise.. and get first dibs for consideration if there are other students working in your job.

I tend to take lots of morning classes. On my early undergrad years, I have at least one 8am class every semester. I would pack my days with classes until 1200ish. Then about an half hr to 1 hr break then work until 645pm. During the semester, I would have 2 days that I am in school the entire day (usually Tues and Thursday). I then work on the weekends as they wish.

It is tough, but if you need $$ you'll have to compromise. I gave up friday nights for the past 3 years.. but i go out on sat nights rather. I usually take at least 16 cr per semester and work about 25-30 hrs per week. once i get off at 645pm i would rest til 8pm then study until 11pm/12am ish.. just a matter of getting used to it. Everything has to be scheduled.

If I need to see my advisor / prof or other school stuff, I do it on the days Im in school the entire day. I compensate my availability at work by doing well at work. If your boss sees you work hard, they usually work around your schedule. I work at a Bank, been promoted to various positions over the past 3 years while going to school full-time. I graduate this spring, and it was very productive 4 years (i think).

Good Luck.