By Fariha Rahman, Student Intern

Welcome back to another exciting year at the University of Manchester! Whether you’re diving into your studies, looking for part-time work, or simply trying to balance it all, managing your time effectively is key to making the most of your university experience. 

Finding Balance: Work, Study, and Everything In Between 

It’s no secret that balancing work and study can be a challenge, but with the right approach, it’s entirely possible—and can be incredibly rewarding. During my second year, I held two part-time jobs on campus: Student Voice Strategy Assistant and Education Association Chair at the Students’ Union (I found both roles through the SU Jobshop Website!). While the extra cash was nice, these roles offered so much more than just financial support. They allowed me to build a network, develop skills that will propel me into my future career, and even apply classroom knowledge in practical, real-world scenarios. 

 Here’s how I kept everything on track, and some tips for you to do the same: 

1. Plan—Use Your Digital Calendar

One of the best tools you have at your disposal is your digital calendar (e.g. your Apple Calendar on your iPhone – the one I used; Google Calendar works in an equivalent way too). I cannot stress enough how helpful it is to plan your week in advance. By scheduling your study time, work shifts, and even downtime, you’ll have a clear roadmap of your week. This not only keeps you organised but also helps reduce stress, knowing exactly when you need to be where.  

Important Advice: Treat your studies like a full-time job, slot your other commitments around it. 

2. Communicate with Your Employer

Working part-time while studying is a balancing act, and your employer should understand that. Make sure they know you’re a full-time student so your shifts can be organised around your academic commitments. This way, you won’t find yourself caught between a lecture and a work shift, and you can give your best to both. 

3. Say Yes to New Opportunities

When opportunities arise, especially those that might push you out of your comfort zone, say yes! During my time as a Student Voice Strategy Assistant, I had the chance to interview academics—something that seemed intimidating at first but made me more confident and opened new avenues for networking. Every experience is a chance to learn, grow, and add another skill to your toolkit. 

Find Safe and Supportive Part-Time Work 

If you’re considering part-time work, make sure it’s a good fit for your schedule and your well-being. The University’s Careers service and the SU Jobshop are excellent resources for finding safe, on-campus jobs that can help you build your CV while keeping your studies on track. And do not forget to check out this advice from the Careers service on finding secure and fulfilling part-time roles. 

Explore More on Campus 

But working part-time isn’t the only way to make the most of your time at university. There are countless ways to expand your horizons and develop both personally and professionally.

Get Involved in Societies 

Leading and participating in societies is a fantastic way to meet new people and learn new skills. I served as the President of the Get Crafty for Charity Society and took on roles at Enactus Manchester and the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre. These experiences were incredibly fulfilling, offering opportunities to lead, collaborate, and make a tangible impact. Societies are a perfect choice if you’re looking for a low-commitment way to engage with the university community. They’re fun, flexible, and a fantastic way to build lasting friendships. In fact, my involvement in societies helped me to secure my part-time jobs! It is an excellent way to standout to future employers. 

Your Time is Your Most Valuable Resource 

The most valuable resource you have as a student is your time. How you choose to spend it will shape your university experience and beyond. Whether you are taking on a part-time job, getting involved in societies, or simply staying organised with your studies, every choice you make contributes to your growth and success. 

 So, here is to a year of making smart, time-savvy decisions that help you achieve your goals while enjoying all that university life has to offer! 

Best of luck this year—make it one to remember! 

With these tips, you are well on your way to mastering the art of balance. Remember, university is about more than just academics; it is about growing, exploring, and making the most of every opportunity that comes your way. 

Related