University life is an exciting journey filled with new experiences, friendships, and challenges. Many students take on part-time work to help cover tuition, supplement income, or gain valuable experience. However, balancing work and university can be overwhelming without proper planning, so here are my top 5 tips to finding a balance.

Before we get into the details, let me introduce myself – I’m Harvey, a history undergraduate working part-time as a Student Ambassador for BU. In this blog, I’ll share practical strategies that I personally use to balance both effectively, while maintaining my wellbeing.

So, lets jump straight into it:

1. Master the art of time management

Time is your most valuable resource when juggling work and studies. The key is prioritising your tasks. I use a colour-coded calendar to organise lectures, assignment deadlines, and work shifts in one place, making it easier to plan work commitments and schedule important downtime. Here is an example of my calendar:

2. Choose the right job for you

Not all part-time jobs fit well with university schedules. On-campus roles, like being a Student Ambassador, are ideal because they’re designed to be flexible around studies.

💡Other options include retail and hospitality, but be mindful that evening and weekend shifts may cut into study time. The key is choosing a job that aligns with your workload and personal schedule.

3. Set boundaries and communicate

Balancing both commitments require clear communication with your employer and professors. Just follow these easy steps to help you:

Talk to your employer – most are happy to accommodate university schedules, especially during exam season.

Learn to say “No” – Overcommitting leads to stress, so don’t feel guilty about prioritising your studies

Make university your top priority – Your degree is the main goal, work should support, not hinder, your academic success.

4. Stay organised and avoid procrastination

When it comes to balancing work and studies, it is crucial to stay organised.

I recommend planning assignments in advance, so you avoid cramming and last-minute stress. Productivity techniques, like the Pomodoro Method can also be useful tools to keep you on topic. If you stay organised, you will be able to find a balance and maximise you ability to work whilst avoiding burnout.

I use techniques, like Pomodoro, by having tea breaks!

5. Take care of your well-being

Burnout is a real risk, so taking care of your mental and physical health is essential. Always try to:

Get enough sleep – Aim for 6-8 hours sleep a night.

Eat well and exercise – Keep a balanced diet and exercise regularly to boost concentration. SUBU’s Community Kitchen and SportBU’s gym can help with this!

Schedule downtime – socialising, reading, or even a simple walk along the beach can help you recharge.

💡If things do get a bit overwhelming, BU offers a fantastic Student Wellbeing service for support.

Balancing part-time work and university studies is challenging, but completely doable with the right strategies. By managing your time effectively, setting priorities, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can excel in both areas and have some amazing experiences.

Remember: University isn’t just about academics – it’s about building experiences and skills for your future. Work smart, stay organised, and most importantly, enjoy the journey!

Find out more

Beyond Your Degree – what can I do aside from my degree during my time at BU?