How to balance your university studies with part-time work in Dundee

The reality for many students is that alongside their studies they also need to balance part-time work. This can feel daunting, and it’s something I personally struggled with during my undergraduate degree. However, that experience taught me a few key lessons that have really helped me balance my part-time role in a supermarket and my postgraduate studies. 

Get organised and prioritise your time 

One of the first things I did at the start of the semester was to read each module handbook to gather information about how teaching is delivered, when you are expected on campus, and any important deadlines. This allowed me to plan and ensure there were no conflicts with my work schedule. By understanding the bigger picture, you can then break your workload down into smaller, more manageable chunks - it makes everything feel a lot less overwhelming. I personally like to make both a weekly and daily task plan, using Google Calendar. This helps me to stay on track and prioritise my time effectively. 

Get into a study mindset and create the right environment

My daily to-do-list also helps me get into the right mindset. Sometimes, when I’m faced with a big task, I can find it quite difficult to approach and then I become demotivated, but when the task is broken down into smaller sections I find it a lot easier to tackle. I also find it really satisfying to tick items off my list, which motivates me even more!

Your environment plays a huge role in your productivity, and everyone’s preferences are different. For me, I enjoy the silent area of the library as it helps me to remain focused and reduces any distractions. If you prefer some background noise when you’re studying, the library has several group study areas, or the Liar at the Students’ Union is also a great option. My main tip for creating a productive environment is to ensure your space is tidy and that you have plenty of space for any materials you may require. 

Make time for things you enjoy

If you are studying full-time and have a part-time job, it’s still important to make time for relaxation and activities you enjoy. Overloading yourself with studying and work can lead to reduced motivation and burnout. Scheduling breaks into your daily and weekly plans will help you find balance and relieve stress. For me, this includes taking time to go to the gym, going for walks, and meeting my friends for a coffee. By taking this time, I can then come back to my studies with a refreshed mind. 

Support from the University

The University offers a range of services to help students deal with any struggles they may be facing. Each student is allocated an Advisor of Studies, who is there to provide guidance throughout your course. Additionally, many lecturers offer office drop-in sessions, where you can seek support or ask questions. I would strongly recommend using these services to ensure your understanding of course specific content while effectively managing your time and overall wellbeing. In addition to academic support, the Careers Service also provides resources to help students find work that fits around their studies. On a weekly basis, students are emailed a range of job openings from part-time retail work to postgraduate research opportunities. Other services include drop-in hours with Careers Advisors who can provide feedback and advice on CVs, cover letter writing and job interview tips.