Working Student's Woes

Remember that magical moment when your favourite teacher asked you to be his assistant? Or the time when your neighbour thought you were 'perfect' for her undisciplined, notorious and educationally-backward child?

Long gone are the days when student jobs like tutoring or part-timing in stores simply implied that the student was in financial need and needed the job to fund their education. And no longer are such activities frowned upon by society. They have just become a part of the flow.

What still remains a matter of worry is though these jobs are fascinating and less-humiliating than asking your parents for pocket money, there are times when they take over your educational and personal lives. In some cases, a part-time job may no longer remain part-time. And the best way to avoid such situations is to ponder sensibly over the offer when it comes instead of impulsively accepting it.

Priorities vary from person to person, but it helps to keep a balance. If your education is your major priority, then it will not help if you spend your studying time checking copies or haggling with your product importer. On the other hand, if you wish to keep your job, you cannot ignore it till your deadlines and then wait for a miracle to happen.

A good decision will be to allocate your time efficiently. Make a routine and follow it to a T. Make sure you have ample time to study, to spend with your family and – most importantly – maintain your health. Sleep is one factor that you cannot ignore, because with droopy eyes, you can do nothing perfectly. 

There's always a way to ignore pressure and hassle. If you are working as a tutor, it is going to be better for both you and your student to sit together and come to a mutual timing that suits you both. It can be helpful having a partner to take over your mini business when your exams are going on, might get you a few precious days free to study. 

And not to forget the golden rule, there is nothing more sensible than maintaining a good relationship with your boss. Help him know when you're being overwhelmed so that he will at least consider cutting you some slack. However, all people are not the same. You may face situations when your finals are knocking at your door, and your boss is just not ready to grant you a few days' leave. In that case, you have to make your own decision, and get your priorities straight.

Although they have their drawbacks, these jobs are some of the best things that can happen to young adults. To have your own pocket money and to be able to say, "I've earned it" with a smug look on your face every time someone questions your spending habits is an undeniable pleasure. But it is all about how well you divide your time so that there is enough for your studies, job and personal life.