The Benefits of Having a Job While In College
On the face of it, working while studying doesn’t seem a reasonable proposition since it can reduce study hours. But many students are not fortunate enough that they can sustain their college expenses, leaving them to avail the only option – work while study.
According to a research conducted by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce in 2015, about 14 million college students are working. The study further reveals, over the past 25 years, more than 70% of college students have worked while attending college.
As it goes without saying, there is a silver lining in every cloud. Regardless of the reduced study hours, having a job in college has many benefits altogether. Furthermore, it poses a good opportunity for students to apply concepts learned from professors and textbooks to real world situations.
Are you also contemplating to work?
Here is why having a job while studying in college beneficial for you:
It keeps you from unnecessary debts
Financial necessity is the primary factor due to which many students have to struggle with study loan payments. If you are going through the similar patch, picking up a job can be a great way to reduce the amount that you have to pay as part of loan payment. Even small payments can make a big difference in the total amount you have to pay later. Since the loan is difficult to pay back and can slow down your progress, you should avoid student debt in the first place as much as possible. Therefore working during college allows you to graduate without too many financial obligations.
It teaches you time-management skills
Time management is extremely important in your professional life. It is possible that you may find yourself in a fast-paced and hectic work environment. Such workplaces can be highly demanding where deadlines may pile up, or you may come across certain tasks that are difficult to perform. This is the reason why you need effective time management in order to survive environments like these. As a matter of fact, working is a far cry from attending classes. The former requires you to juggle between tasks and meetings, while the latter needs you to just be present. Thus, working in college provides you with a good opportunity to learn how you can efficiently manage your limited time. It has also been seen some students perform better when they have a job because they start carefully planning their time.
It provides valuable work experience
Working while studying is much like on-the-job training, and you are getting paid for it. Think of it like this way: you are paying to learn at college; you will get paid to learn at work. It also allows you to hone your skills and master at whatever you do. The job experience that you get will make you much more competitive, plus it adds value to your resume. Even if the job isn’t directly related to your specific field of study, the fact that you possess prior job experience will work in your favor. The fact that you are already aware of industry standards, dos & don’ts, and work ethics, you will more likely be given preference over others.
It helps you manage your finances well
There’s no better way to learn to manage your finances than start earning yourself. It is often said a shoe pinches when it is on the other foot. Similarly, you will understand the value of hard-earned money and wouldn’t waste it on irrelevant things. The job will allow you to take responsibility for your personal expenses such as cell phone, transportation, entertainment, college assignments & projects etc. You will start creating a spending plan for your earnings – tracking how much you bring in versus how much you pay out. Furthermore, you will be able to save some amount of money for an emergency.
It expands your professional networks
One of the crucial benefits of working while in college is that you become a part of professional networks that can open up a world of opportunities for you. After graduation, these networks can help you land on a good job. You never know anyone among your acquaintances can be the key to your dream job. Networking isn’t just a job search strategy; it is a critical professional career development enrichment strategy. It broadens your horizons way beyond your college campus.
Wrapping up
Working during college can be highly advantageous for you, not only from a monetary perspective. You learn to manage your time and finances, gain valuable experience, and develop useful networks. Furthermore, you become aware of different management styles.
Thinking of hiring a career coach to help you land your dream career after college? Browse our directory of career coaches and get a FREE consultation or request a personalized coach recommendation!
How prepared are you for the workforce after you graduate? Take this quiz to find out!
Quiz: How Prepared Are You For The Workforce After College Graduation?
Related reading:
About the Author Michael Zhou
Senior VP of Business Intelligence Development, I have assisted the Fortune many companies with expertise in the web as a whole, including ground-zero marketing efforts that benefit both consumer and vendor. I'm a thinker, communicator, marketer, competitor, people person, and all-around busy bee.