Is it possible to combine studying and part-time work at university?

So, is it possible to combine studying and part-time work at University?

Well, it all depends on your time management, but my answer is absolutely yes! I do understand that finding a job in a current situation might be a bit tricky and I recommend looking for companies that are following strict health and safety guidelines when you’re job hunting.

The university advises to work no more than 15 hours a week alongside your studies. In my opinion, this should earn you more than enough money to pay for your food, bills and have some extra pocket money. However, we all work at a different pace and some people might be able to work 10 hours a week, while others prefer more occasional work. Whichever option you choose, make sure that work does not interfere with your studies. I hope this goes without saying, but your degree should always be your top priority. Make sure to commit to a work schedule that works and allows you to have a balanced life. 

For example, in my third year, I worked as a Student Ambassador, volunteered for the SU and managed to keep working for the organisation where I had done a placement previously. It took a lot of time management skills to do this and, even though I was quite busy, I wouldn’t change a thing – I had a fantastic university experience, developed my marketing skills and met amazing and passionate students and staff while working as a Student Ambassador.

Moreover, having a job is a valuable experience that goes beyond getting a pay check. It allows you to grow as a person and develop interpersonal / professional skills. If you enjoy developing your skills beyond lectures, consider applying for placements (paid work) or internships (usually unpaid). On top of the experience, both placements and internships can be quite valuable in terms of getting contacts from the industry which might come in handy once you graduate 🙂

Things to consider before you start looking for a job: 

• Make sure you have your university timetable on hand. While interviewing for student jobs, managers are usually interested in knowing what hours / days you can work.
• Think about the time commitment you are willing to take on. Do you prefer regular weekly hours / occasional work?
• If you are looking for regular weekly hours – make sure you commit to hours that do not interfere with your studies. As I mentioned above, your course should always be on the top of you priority list and you should find balance between academic / social / work life.
• Is your CV up to date? The university Careers Service can help with this. 
• Most student friendly jobs won’t require a cover letter, however, make sure you have one prepared (just in case).
• Check the national minimum wage to manage salary expectations 

Where to find work: 

• Student Ambassador scheme – student blogger Karolina wrote an article about her SA experience. Read here. Find more about the SA scheme here. 
• Indeed 
• University Career Services – Check UOW career website and Facebook pages as they release job bulletins with both part time and full time jobs (which will become handy after graduation!) 
• Academic schools are sometimes looking for research assistants and support staff, so make sure you regularly check UOW career pages to find more about these type of positions
• University of Worcester support staff (receptionist, IT services, cleaning services). These student jobs usually offer flexible hours 
• University of Worcester Arena – event management, helping out with set up for Worcester Wolves games and stewarding events. 
• Businesses in town – cafés, restaurants, gym, shops. Walk around town and try to look for ‘’we are hiring signs’’ which are usually placed by the front door. 
• Remote work – in the environment we are living in today remote work is becoming more and more common. This can also be quite helpful to get experience in your field. For example, for students studying marketing / graphic design / IT (these are just a few I can think of!) this can be a valuable experience to add to your CV. Try UpWork, Fiverr and other portals to find part-time remote work

Tips for students looking for work: 

• If you get nervous on interviews, practice with a friend or alone. Give yourself an example question and practice your answers. 
• Make sure you tailor your CV for the particular job you are looking for. 

So that’s it for today. Let me know if you have any other tips that I haven’t mentioned and good luck with finding a job! 

Claudia xx 

Keep up the good work!