Hi, everyone! My name is Livvie Riddle, and I am the Family Assistant for this year in the New Student Orientation and Family Programs Office. Welcome to Learn with Livvie!

Learn with Livvie is going to consist of me highlighting fun and interesting things on and off the Missouri State University campus, along with things I experience as a student. Today, I am going to be talking about working a part time job as a full-time student.

It’s a common reality for a majority of students, wanting to maintain a job while also being in school. Before coming to college, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I knew I needed to work to maintain my expenses, but I also wanted to focus on school. It can be difficult and sometimes I still have trouble figuring it out, but it is possible! I am a prime example of it.

At Missouri State, I work as a University Ambassador (campus tour guide), a student worker at Magers Health and Wellness Center, and the Family Assistant for the SOAR office! On top of this, I am a nursing major who is soon to apply to the nursing program. I have had my fair share of responsibilities, but if I can do it, so can you. I will be putting together a list of a few things that have helped me throughout work and school, so maybe I can inspire someone else!

1. Use a Planner

It sounds self-explanatory, but it’s true! A lot of my peers use the built-in planner in Microsoft 365 that we receive full access to as students, and some use paper planners! Personally, I love a good paper planner, but it’s up to each individual student!

It has helped me feel on top of whatever I need to get done. Whether that includes meetings for organizations, work, assignments, and more, it has helped me a lot. It makes me feel more organized and like my workload is manageable.

2. Make School your Number One Priority

While you do want to do your best at your job(s), you are a student first. It is so important to protect your homework and study time. Especially in a major like nursing, time is crucial.

The information in certain classes can take more time to digest than other classes, and as you go throughout the semester, you get a feel of what you need to spend more time on.

Set time out of your day to do your homework or study. Let your family and friends know you need to turn off your phone for a little while. Grab a coffee or whatever drink makes you happy (mine is Dr. Pepper) and get to work. The dedication to your education will pay off!

3. Learn to Say No

When you come into college, it is always encouraged to get involved anywhere you can. While I do recommend this, you don’t want to get involved in too much. As I mentioned before, you are a student first. When things get too hectic, it can make schoolwork more difficult to manage. Set boundaries to ensure you avoid burning out on the things you love. You do not have to attend every event to be successful. Put yourself first!

4. Schedule Time to Be with Friends or Family

One of the most valuable things I have done for myself as a college student has been scheduling time with my loved ones. In college, things can move FAST. The days feel long, and the weeks feel short. Once I found my community at Missouri State, I made sure to schedule time to hang out with them.

Whether that’s movie nights in my room, going to dinner, or late-night drives, take a break from your school or work! I promise that in the long run, you will thank yourself for creating those memories. School and work can get stressful but being with the people you love can help it feel a little bit lighter.

5. CELEBRATE!

As a student with a job, you work so hard. Whether that is to make ends meet, keeping up with your grades, saving money, etc. Buy yourself something you love. Take that well deserved nap. Go to that concert you’ve always wanted to go to. You work hard as a student, and your efforts must be celebrated!

Working a part time job while being a college student is not always easy, what you are doing has a purpose and it will pay off! Find what works for you and give yourself grace along the way. Thanks for reading and until next time, GO BEARS!

~ Livvie Riddle, Family Assistant