Time Management Tips for Taking Classes With a Full-Time Job

Today, balancing a full-time job and taking campus or online classes is common. Without the right preparation, it's easy to let one or both of the responsibilities fall to the wayside as a result of stress. Here are some time management tips to help students find balance.

Give Work & School Equal Attention

If making money is always the top priority, your studies will likely take a significant hit. Many students have this problem after they take more and more work hours, neglecting to study and prepare as a result. Although education may not make money in the current moment, the opportunity for increased financial earnings, more career options, and professional development can pay off in time. Because of this, it's important to treat education with the same mentality you apply to work. With SoPA, you may even find career events that can boost your work skills while you're a student.

Make Use of Your Commute

In busy cities, many workers may spend several hours a day just commuting. This is doubled for those who may travel from work to their homes and to a campus every single day. Whether it's reviewing flashcards on the St. Charles streetcar or listening to a recorded lecture while you walk to class, these moments can make the difference in the semester.

Opt for Online Learning

A long commute just isn't for everyone. If possible, see if your university offers online learning where you can earn credits toward your degree from home. Not only will this cut out your commute, but it will also allow you more flexibility. You can learn on a schedule that works for you and from the comfort of your own home. Of course, keep in mind that online learning can sometimes require its own set of time management tips.

Focus on Mental Health

When money is tight but education is still a high priority, there's one thing that often suffers: mental health. Although it can be tempting to cram work or studies into every waking moment, staying afloat mentally should come first. Whether this means taking a full day off of work and studies every other week or simply turning off the computer for an hour every night to exercise, meditate, or catch up on a TV show, it's important to continuously check-in and make sure you're not pushing yourself too hard.

Holding down a full-time job and earning an education is perfectly possible with the right resources. Learn more about the Tulane School of Professional Advancement's degree programs featuring flexible schedules built for working professionals.