As homework piles up and work shifts begin, many students are learning how to balance school and their jobs at the same time. While working can provide financial independence and real-world experience, it can also interfere with students’ ability to manage coursework, study time and stress.
For some upperclassmen, the pressure is especially noticeable. Momina Afroz ’26 said balancing academics with a demanding job has made studying more difficult.
“It makes it harder for me to really study,” Afroz said.
Afroz works as a nursing assistant at a hospital, where she cares for patients during long shifts. Although her schedule can be adjusted, she must request changes in advance. Because much of her time is spent at work, she often studies late at night after returning home.
“The time I’m at work, I can’t really study there, so it’s harder to prepare for my classes,” Afroz said.
While some students struggle to balance work and school, others find it more manageable. Hunter Evans ’28 said working has not affected his academics.
“I haven’t noticed any changes because I keep up on my work,” Evans said.
Evans is self-employed and works in landscaping for about eight hours a week. Because he controls his own schedule, he is able to prioritize schoolwork. When daylight fades, he shifts his focus from work to homework.
“Once it gets too dark to work, I come in and start working on my homework,” Evans said.
For other students, longer work hours can create academic challenges, even if they enjoy their jobs. Joseph Manni ’27 said working does not overwhelm him, but it can leave him exhausted.
“I like working and my job. I never get overwhelmed or anything when I’m working,” Manni said.
Manni works about 20 hours a week as a stockman at a liquor store. He often goes directly to work after school and returns home late, which affects his energy levels and sometimes his deadlines.
“Sometimes I turn in my assignments late because I’m too tired to do it,” Manni said.
Despite the challenges, Afroz said working has helped her academically in other ways.
“It’s a positive in my health care classes because I know much more about what I’m learning,” she said.
Afroz said her job provides hands-on experience that connects directly to her future career goals. Manni also said working has helped him develop responsibility and communication skills, even if it has not directly improved his grades.
“I’ve gained a better work ethic, and I’ve gotten better at talking to people,” Manni said.
