Category: Balancing work and studies

In this part of our series on balancing part-time work and study, final year French and Italian student Dylan Webster-Deakin discusses the stigma and mental health pressures around working part-time and offers some practical tips on how to deal with those and the work itself.

As someone who had to balance a part-time job and full-time studies at the University of Bristol for the majority of their time here, and someone who is also a keen writer, I jumped at the opportunity to share my experiences and offer some advice. Balancing work, studies, leisure and a social life is tricky, and is often regarded by many as a ‘taboo’ due to its perceived connotations and the stigma surrounding it. In this blog I will offer as much advice as I can on topics such as time management, mental health and study techniques for students who work part-time.

To give a very brief overview of my personal experiences working part-time while in education – I’ve been working part time since I turned 16, with my first job coming in the form of a sales assistant at the local greengrocer’s. I stacked shelves, served customers, and performed endless mental arithmetic. Then at the start of University I started working as a lifeguard at a leisure centre in Stoke Gifford, which came with it’s own challenges, particularly with regards to commuting (45 minutes by bike!). Since my year abroad I’ve been doing some agency work and also worked in a pub over the summer. Now, onto the advice!

The first thing to realise is: you are not alone. Over 50% of students in the UK have part-time jobs, so it’s not an uncommon situation to be in. A lot of people are embarrassed by the fact that they have to work to finance their studies, but in reality, it’s more uncommon to not be employed while at University than the other way around. The University itself employs students in a variety of ambassadorial roles precisely because they recognise how normal and common it has become. While the University itself recommends no more than 15 hours work per week during term time for Undergraduates (20 for PG), it is not uncommon to work more, especially with rising living costs. Why is this the first thing to realise? Because mental health matters. If you feel isolated, stressed or low, then that will impact your productivity – at work and at Uni.

You can find links to various support services for students from the University of Bristol here. These include support for mental health and wellbeing, financial advice, and general student queries.

Don’t let work ruin your social life. As mentioned, staying happy and healthy are vital when it comes to keeping on top of your studies. Make sure to meet up with your friends, go to social events – continue to do the things that make you happy. It may require a bit more planning than it did pre-job (which we will tackle shortly), but it’ll be worth it.

But how do you manage it? It’s hard enough balancing uni work, a social life, exercise etc. adding a part time job into the equation can be a daunting thought! Time management is key. Trying to make sure that you’re at Uni, be it in a lecture or in a study space, from 9-5 every day will make this so much easier. Most employers will take into account your availability during the selection process for the job, so would not (and should not) be hiring students if they’re unwilling to be flexible in terms of weekly hours and shift start/end times. Try to be vocal and let your manager(s) know when, where, and for how long you can work each week. You’ll accrue payed holiday and are entitled to unpaid holiday, so if you need a week off because you have lots of deadlines then take one. It’s likely that if they’ve employed you, then they may well employ other students so talk to each other and work together – offer to cover a shift for them if something comes up at late notice, then ask for them to return the favour.

Try to prioritise the most important and urgent pieces of work. A technique that really helped me was making a tier list of importance for my Uni work – and allocating my time accordingly. You will have opportunities to catch up, or do extra work, throughout the academic year (reading weeks, Christmas / easter holidays) so don’t worry if you feel like you’re struggling in the moment. Prioritise the most pressing pieces of work, and make a note of what you were unable to do, or need to revise, and go back to it when you have time.

Study skills has a number of excellent resources on time management techniques, including a blog post series and a self-paced online resource.

To summarise:

• You are not alone: talk to your peers, they will likely be in the same boat!
• Let neither Study nor Work rule your life. Find a balance, communicate with your manager and colleagues.
• Continue to make time for the things you enjoy.
• Plan your week and learn to prioritise (top tip! use the Outlook calendar/task tabs in your Uni email)
• Time management is key

Dylan Webster-Deakin, French and Italian, Year 4 

In this part of our series on balancing part-time work and study, final year economics student Maansi Gupta shares how she uses her phone calendar to help her stay in control of balancing work, social life and staying focussed on study.

Throughout my three years at university I have worked several part-time jobs, but balancing these jobs alongside academics, sport, extra-curriculars and a social life isn’t easy. While I try to find a middle ground, there are times when it feels overwhelming, so the only way I manage everything is being very organised with my scheduling. 

My phone calendar is my lifeline – every lecture, shift, sports session and social plan is logged to ensure I don’t double-book myself or forget something important. That being said, even the best organisation doesn’t make more hours appear in the day.

There are weeks when deadlines pile up, so it is a constant balancing act. However, I always make a conscious effort to set aside time to socialise with friends. University isn’t just about studying and working, it’s also about enjoying the experience, and I don’t want to look back and regret missing out on making memories with friends. Even if it’s just a quick coffee catch-up or a study session together, those moments help keep me sane. At the same time, guilt creeps in. If I spend too much time socialising, I feel like I should be working or studying. If I spend all my time working or studying, I feel like I’m missing out on the university experience. The mental tug-of-war between responsibilities and actually enjoying university life can get exhausting. 

Being in final year, my academic work is definitely a main focus. There are weeks when I need to cut back on work to focus on assignments, but thankfully, my university jobs as a Student Assisted Guidance in Economics (SAGE) Leader, Bristol Futures advocate and a School of Economics Student Ambassador, allow for that flexibility. I’m able to adjust my shifts alongside my studies in a way that feels manageable. Whether it’s working a few hours between classes or picking up extra shifts during quieter academic periods, these roles have always fit seamlessly into my schedule. 

University-based jobs are normally very flexible, conveniently located, and run by people who understand student life. So if you’re thinking about getting a part-time job, my biggest piece of advice is to find one that fits around your studies, not the other way round. Also, finding the right balance is an ongoing process (one which I’m still figuring out!). There will always be weeks when one aspect takes precedence over another. What’s important is learning how to adapt, set boundaries, and make time for both responsibilities and enjoyment! 

Maansi Gupta, Economics Year 3