So I’m starting freshman year very soon, and I got offered federal work study. I’m wondering if it’d be wise to work 10 hours a week on top of a full courseload (15 credit hours). My mom can technically afford for me to not work first semester, but it’d be a bit of a financial strain (she’s putting me and both of my sisters through college). I went to a very hard high school so I’m used to academic rigor, but would all of my time be consumed between school and work if I have this schedule? I want time for working out, volunteering, going out with friends, etc.
(I’m a premed psychology major for those of you wondering) thanks!
I’d suggest you start right away. Ten hours is a skate. The best jobs go quickly, so, if you care, it might make sense to be in there from the start. There is some reset at the beginning of each term and the end of the year, but students tend to keep the best jobs.
I think you’ll be fine with only 10 hours, even as a brand new student. I was able to easily juggle 20 hours in my last two years (when I was taking my much more difficult classes). Besides, it seems that alleviating financial strain is a bonus.
10 hours/week for the average college student is nothing. Don’t worry about it. You’ll still have lots of time for other activities.
And if you try it and really find that it’s too much to handle, you can always quit. It’s not ideal, but most employers (especially on campus employers) understand that you are a student first.