How to balance work with your studies

Compiled by Liza Hitge

Is it really possible to have a job while studying and still reach your goals?

These students and grads are here to tell you it's possible – and to give advice on how to keep all the balls in the air.

Working part-time while studying

IVIWE MTUBU - Junior Teacher while studying BSocSc

Working while studying can be stressful, I know it definitely was for me! I worked as a Teacher, an academic tutor for the Environmental and Graphic Science Department, a student front desk assistant, and at some point I was appointed as Acting Subwarden at my residence.

Doing all this and still performing well academically was difficult but I made sure to respect every single second of my time. I made time for everything; books, church, and friends and family.

Time management! It is cliché I know, but it's truly all it takes. Working part-time while studying is advisable because it increases employability. But, manage your time wisely and make time for the other things important to you too.

Working full-time while studying

KALUBA CHIKONDE - Data Engineer at Teraflow while completing thesis for Master of Philosophy in Financial Technology

Working while completing a thesis can be overwhelming. I suggest using the SMART approach.

SPECIFIC: What? When? Why? Your goal might be to complete a 20 000 word thesis by 30 November 2022 so that you graduate in April 2023 and pursue a career in Digital Marketing.

MEASURABLE: Track your progress towards your goal using a thesis journal or habit tracker application like Notion, Forest or Monday.com.

ACTIONABLE: An action plan builds momentum. For example, dedicate an hour daily to your dissertation. Pick a time when your mind is fresh and free from distractions. I found I'm most productive right after I wake up in the morning.

REASON: In the words of Simon Sinek, "You need to find your Why." Why is completing this thesis very important to you? You need to dig deep here because this is what will keep you going when you lack the motivation.

TIMEFRAME: Set deadlines to create a sense of urgency. A wall calendar or phone reminders can help keep you disciplined.

Running your own business while studying

BASHEER PHIRI - CEO of No Code Labs (Software Development Agency) while studying BCom Accounting

Managing your time, network and skills will serve you well on your entrepreneurial journey. As an entrepreneur, if you can work your way around this, you will find balance and success in your endeavours.

Be selective about your time. Try not to get involved in too many projects and extra-curricular activities because they will take time away from school and business.

Network. Attend business and start-up events around your area. You will meet the local entrepreneurs and can become connected to the local start-up ecosystem. Make great use of LinkedIn, build your profile, and become more active. Post at least once per month, and comment on others’ posts

Learn new skills. You can learn new valuable skills through LinkedIn Learning. Through the platform you can learn graphic design, web design, SEO and other tech skills. You can also improve your soft skills like communication and leadership.