The life of a college student is a busy one! Between academics, working part time, and social or extracurricular activities, there is plenty to juggle on a daily and weekly basis. Not only can time feel stretched, but finances often are tight as well. How do students manage it all? Here are some top tips to help you balance the demands of college life.

Managing Academics

• Set realistic goals: By setting clear and attainable goals, you can hold yourself accountable to achieve them. Don’t set goals too high (like an A+ in every single class) or too low (such as only maintaining the minimum GPA needed to stay enrolled). Reaching a goal will be an extra boost in both your momentum and confidence.
• Learn to study effectively: Use methods that work for you (like making flash cards or studying a little each day), connect with study partners, or become familiar with study tools like Quizlet.
• Make a schedule: Planning ahead is a huge key to success. Mark important due dates and tests in your calendar, as well as research, work, and study time hours, to visualize the time you need to prepare. Try an online scheduling platform like MyHomework to help.
• Ask for help: Many colleges have tutors and academic assistance programs, and every class should have office hours, so be sure to ask your professors about these options and reach out for support. Learning when and how to ask for help when you need it is a sign of wisdom, not weakness.

Juggling Part-Time Work

• Find a flexible job: Whether you’re working on or off campus, find a position that offers flexibility. Let your boss or hiring manager know that you are a college student and be honest about your availability. Your transparency upfront will help when the unexpected happens.
• Take time off: Plan ahead for midterms, projects, and assignments by asking for time off well in advance. It’s always better to ask for a break from work than to miss a shift last minute because you were cramming for a final.
• Make time for sleep: Make sure your work schedule makes time for rest. Getting enough sleep improves your mental health, reduces stress, helps your body physically heal and recover, improves your immune system, and even boosts memory and learning.
• Consider studying during work (only if appropriate!): If you have a job that offers some downtime, and as long as your boss approves it, bring your study materials to work. It’s amazing how much you can get accomplished with an extra hour or two.
• Work during vacation time:  To build up your bank account, and perhaps free up some time during the academic year, consider working during your school breaks.

Balancing the Budget

• Create a budget: Manage your out-of-pocket expenses by creating a realistic budget. Online personal finance tools like Credit Karma and EveryDollar are a great resource, or use a free budget worksheet like one from NerdWallet.
• Shop smart for textbooks: To save money on textbook costs, check out our article, 8 Websites to Find Your College Textbooks. Another alternative is checking with your school’s library before purchasing books, as they usually keep one copy of every book on reserve for students to read.
• Be conscious about credit: Although it is good to establish credit once you hit a certain age, not using credit wisely can have negative, more lasting impacts.
• Do your homework on loans and financial aid: Make sure you apply for all the financial aid that you may be eligible to receive. This will reduce your college costs. And if you borrow loans, understand the terms.
• Diversify your social life: Going out with your college friends every night of the weekend may sound fun at first, but the cost of social events can add up. Weigh the benefits of some activities, and then find ways to have fun on a budget with like-minded friends.

Consider this advice to make the most of your experience as you balance life as a college student. For more tips, check out our articles, Tips for College Students to Save Money or What to Do When You’re Feeling Blue.