Struggling with a job and my uni studies!

Disclaimer - this blog discusses finances, obviously, this can be a super sensitive topic especially for those struggling with money. Some ideas may be idealistic and not applicable for your situation, if you are struggling with money you can head to MyKingston which has a financial aid page.

Whilst the pandemic started 5 years ago, the chances are if you’re a student, you’re still feeling the financial effects with the cost of living. Over two thirds of students will now have to take on a part time job whilst they’re at uni, something that can be super difficult to balance with full time studies! I wanted to compile a couple of tips on balancing the two the best way you can- from personal experience!

Look for jobs aimed specifically at students-
Now the current job market is definitely not the best it’s ever been and if you are desperate for a job you might find yourself applying to everything you can! However if you are able to, I would definitely keep an eye out for the jobs that are great for students. Here at Kingston, the uni do offer some roles, whether its being a student ambassador or a job at the Knights Park art shop, a uni job like these tend to have a lot of flexibility as they are literally based on you as students. Outside of uni, there also tends to be retail and hospitality jobs that can work for students due to schedules that aren’t set in stone. However, be super careful with these sorts of jobs with timings that you are signing yourself up to.

Have boundaries! -
Following on from the last point, it’s so so important to have boundaries! If you are in a part time job that has flexibility, it is worth considering that it can also go the other way. The pressure to cover colleagues or take on extra shifts can be super difficult to deal with. If you have a contract it’s definitely worth knowing what’s included so that you’re not exploited but also vocalise your boundaries. If you’re able to take on an extra shift one week make it known that its just that shift so you’re schedule doesn't start being presumed. And if you cant take on extra don't feel guilty- you’re working to support yourself and your studies, not to keep your works business going!

Don’t sacrifice yourself-
When you’re in need of cash, it can also be tempting to run yourself into the ground. Whether thats taking extra shifts or ramming your schedule full just to make money and fulfil uni work. And whilst every now and then you might be able to get away with it, it’s definitely not sustainable! Doing this can burn you out and definitely damage your mental health. Whilst situations can be tricky, it’s so important to look after yourself! If you need advice or understanding definitely reach out to uni staff. They won’t be able to solve your financial problems, but they definitely can point you in the right direction to help make sure you’re not putting too much pressure on yourself.

For those students already balancing, do you have any other tips to comment?

-Yasmin (Kingston Rep)

(edited 3 months ago)

Reply 1

Adamt76

It might be worth pointing out that not all students stay in halls or accommodation, but live at home and commute! This is a huge saving, my daughter is commuting for 30minutes a day (course is only 8 hours a week). I know a fare few students commuting as the costs have sky rocketed, to stay on campus. So, my daughter will keep her Sunday job and save that money while we pay for the train or petrol if the train doesn’t run that day!