5 Tips for Combining Work and Study
It's the third year of recession here in Austria, and let's be honest—the job market is more competitive than ever, especially for young talent. Many students ask themselves: how can I stand out after graduation? It's often said that grades aren't everything—though you still need to pass. Neither is the pace of your studies—but what if it takes you years? The real edge, they say, comes from practical experience. But how on earth do people combine work and study while maintaining a healthy balance?
Transforming Struggles into Success
Annkathrin, or Anni as she's known, grappled with these thoughts when she decided to apply for a student job in our team at RBI nearly two years ago. Juggling work and study has been challenging at times. With her Master’s coming to an end, Anni reflected on her journey and put together the 5 most powerful tips she wishes she had known before, for you.
I remember how one day, sitting at my desk, I felt the weight of my dual life pressing down. Exam season was approaching with study materials piling up, while colleagues at work needed my support with the next events series coming up – and expectations were high. Though I struggled, I managed to stay calm. Over time, I discovered strategies that transformed my experience and helped be thrive.
Anni’s Practical Tips for a Work-Life-Study Balance
1. Be Transparent About Busy Times at University
I realized that my colleagues were often unaware of my university commitments leading to unmet expectations. Soon, updating my Outlook calendar became my lifeline. I blocked out time for lectures and study sessions, making it clear when I was unavailable. This transparency helped my colleagues to understand when they could count on me and I felt more in control.
2. Plan Buffer Time Before and After Lectures
Rushing from work to class left me drained and confused. By scheduling a little extra time before and after lectures, I created some space that allowed me to transition smoothly. Whether it was reviewing notes or grabbing a quick matcha latte to recharge, those moments became essential.
3. Clarify Team Rules on Remote Working
While hybrid work is generally possible at RBI, teams set their own rules about frequency and conditions that are written down in so-called “team agreements”. Some managers embrace flexibility, while others prefer a traditional approach. I clarified the rules with my manager and found I could work online during university breaks. This was a game changer! Instead of rushing home or to the office, I used those two hours between lectures to tackle assignments on campus, maximizing productivity and seamlessly blending study and work commitments.
4. Decide on Fixed Days vs. Flexibility
In busy weeks, especially early on, I found myself working a lot. I must admit, I enjoyed it since I was excited about finally gaining some practical experience and learning a lot from the team. However, I had to remember I was a part-timer. Over time, I learned to manage my responsibilities by fully committing during stressful periods and taking compensation days as exam season was approaching. This flexibility allowed me to focus on studying without constantly worrying about work commitments, while maintaining open communication with colleagues to keep everything running smoothly.
5. Connect with other Students at RBI
While I was fortunate to learn a lot from the colleagues in my team, I also discovered that exchanging with other part-time students at RBI as a great way to step outside my bubble. It made my struggles feel less overwhelming and showed me new ways to find more balance. Beyond this rather practical perspective, it’s simply great to expand my student network not only at university but also at work. Meeting students from other departments sparked a stronger sense of belonging, gave me an informal glimpse into other areas in the bank, and reminded me that we don’t need to be perfect; we just need to try our best.
From Chaos to Confidence
As I embraced these strategies, the chaos of my work-life-study imbalance began to transform into a harmonious blend, allowing me to thrive rather than merely survive. I learned that with effective planning, open communication, and a willingness to adapt, I could navigate the challenges of work and study with confidence.
So, if you find yourself in a similar position, remember: it’s all about making the most of your time and resources.
With the right approach, you too can make work and study happen.
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