Dear Sadie: Oct. 20, 2010

Dear Sadie,

My parents are pressuring me to get a job this year now that I’ve settled into my classes.  I told them it’s too early, but they think it’s a good idea. What should I do?

Sincerely,

Wary About Working

Dear Wary,

It’s never too early to start working. Some students start as early as freshman year. However, that doesn’t mean having a job on top of schoolwork is right for everyone.

Some classes require much more outside class work than others. Are you a medical major? You may be unable to hold a job with the amount of lab hours you have to put in after class. If you’re really concerned about a job conflicting with your academic life, talk to your parents about that. Parents are always happy to hear you’re focusing on your studies, and they’re more likely to be sympathetic to your reasons if they’re based on school.

If your parents are still adamant, then you’ve got a few options. If you’re worried a job would interfere with your social life, try checking in the Financial Aid office to see if all of the on-campus work-study positions have been taken. If you get a job working on campus, you’re likely to get flexible hours that can work around your activities.

If working on campus doesn’t sound like your bag, find a place close to your apartment and talk to people working there.

Take a breath and talk to your parents about your real time constraints.

You always have options.

Till next time,

Sadie

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