- Each week, we respond to a question from our readers and give advice and resources they can turn to
- This week, we help a student struggling to decide whether to work while attending school
Is it possible to balance being a full-time student with working a part-time job? Photo: ShutterstockNeed an answer to a personal question that you’ve never mustered the courage to ask? We’ve been there. Whether it is about school, family issues or social life, share your thoughts with us. If you have a question you’d like answered (about anything at all), please fill out this Google Form. Don’t worry – you will remain anonymous!
Dear Friend,
I have been considering getting a part-time job so I can earn the money to buy what I want. But if I do that, I know it will affect the amount of time I have to study. What should I do?
Signed, Determined
Help! Everyone around me has money to go to Disneyland or study overseas, but I don’t
Dear Determined,
There are many things to consider if you’re thinking about getting a part-time job. When making the decision, you must consider the possible consequences and whether your choices are consistent with your long-term personal goals.
We don’t know your exact age, but we assume you are a teenager studying full-time in secondary school. If this is the case, we suggest not getting a job so you can prioritise your studies over work. Otherwise, you risk not reaching your academic goals, which could have a significant impact on your future university or career prospects.
It is easy to fall behind on your studies, and it could be difficult to catch up, which could be demotivating and stressful. You could also struggle to take care of your physical, psychological and social needs. You have enough on your plate as a student, and adding a job might take time away from things like sleeping and getting the mental break you need. You have the rest of your life to work, so now is when you should spend time with family and friends and take advantage of being a kid.
How do I convince my parents I can balance my studies with my screen time?
From your letter, it sounds like you don’t need to get a job to earn extra money for your family and help pay bills, but that you want to work so you can have your own personal spending money. It’s admirable that you want to earn your own money! We also understand the temptation of wanting things but being unable to buy them. But your time is more valuable right now. Remember that buying things creates only temporary satisfaction and could lead to a never-ending loop of wanting more.
Ultimately, deciding whether to get a part-time job is personal and will depend on your circumstances and priorities. However, we encourage you to prioritise your studies and personal life, as it will help you achieve your goals and take advantage of being a teenager.
Hope that helps, Friend of a Friend
The question was answered by clinical psychologists from the Department of Health under Shall We Talk, a mental health initiative launched with the Advisory Committee on Mental Health.