Benefits of Part Time Job

Being a student in a foreign country comes with a heavy price tag, which is why most students balance work alongside their studies.

• Extra pocket money: No one ever said ‘NO’ for some extra pocket money. Extra money means a better lifestyle. You can invest this extra money in touring and exploring the country in your free time, or simply upgrading your rented apartment.

• Developing proficient skills (to incorporate in your resume): Part-time jobs teach skills every employer is looking for: commitment, time management, teamwork. leadership, organisation, and customer service.

• Gives you a break: During school, it’s easy to feel as though you’re in a bubble filled with classes, studying, projects, friends and late nights. It’s not a bad bubble to be in, but sometimes we all need a bit of a break from student life. Having a part-time job allows you to get out of the library or house and away from your roommates, giving you a much-needed break from the stress of being a student.

• Improves your grades and your time management skills: This might be surprising but it’s true! When your only commitment is your studies, you may think you have all the time in the world to finish school work. This may result in a less effective work ethic. Having a job forces you to manage your time and organise your tasks in a productive and effective manner. The amount of hours a student can handle varies, but for the most part, when employers hire on students they are aware that the priority is education and will work with you to make it a win-win situation.

• Gives better networking opportunities: Working a part-time job allows you to develop connections. You may get a great friend, reference, connection or even full-time job after school from committing to a sustainable number of hours each week

• Employee benefits: Depending on where your part-time job is, you may be eligible for benefits! You will be eligible for staff discounts or perks. For instance, I had a friend who worked at a coffee shop while in school. She was privy to free caffeine during her entire student career! Other benefits could include discounted tickets, food, merchandise and more! (depending on where you work!)

• Budgeting: Students earning their own money learn to spend wisely. You may be less likely to spend their hard-earned money frivolously and learn to delay gratification to pay for necessities, such as text books and rent. At the same time, you can save for non-essential purchases.