Working whilst studying

A lot of our students choose to work alongside their studies, find out what some of our postgraduates had to say about their experiences…

Michael Woodland – MScEcon Politics and Public Policy

“I would thoroughly recommend that prospective students undertake part-time work, it often provides fantastic experience for the CV. In terms of managing part-time work alongside my studies, I would say planning ahead to fit work/study commitments is key.”

Rhyanna Britton – MA English Literature

“As a part-time student, I attend university two days a week and work three days a week. I have found that it is really important to take full advantage of the days I am at university in order to take some time to myself on the weekend (time which is essentially to maintaining a healthy work-life balance and my general happiness). I also make sure that I allocate a specific amount of time each week to my studies.”

Yanna Thinnes –MSc Civil and Water Engineering

“I have definitely enjoyed having a job whilst studying. I have been able to apply some of my knowledge from university in my work, and equally, work experience has helped me immensely in some of my modules. I would recommend working whilst studying, but it does come with sacrifices – you might have to delete your Netflix account or give up on your beach body that year!”

Charlie Killick – MA International Public Relations & Global Communication Management

“I do work experience one day a week supporting my studies. I find that one day is enough of a balance to not impact negatively on my studies. During deadlines it can become a little bit stressful, so I made the decision not to work more than 8-10 hours a week. As is the case with much of university life, it is just about striking that balance and making sure you have enough time to relax and enough time to study.”

Joseph Barlow –MSc Forensic Linguistics

“If any new MA students were considering working part time I would suggest if they can afford not to then they probably shouldn’t, unless they enjoy it. Throw yourself into your studies and available social activities and enjoy your year. If you must work, make sure you’re working with a team that can support you in taking time off for uni.”

Machalina Szostek – MA Operational Research, Applied Statistics and Financial Risk

“Full-time work and the busy nature of my job has had an impact on my academic performance, due to long-hours and increased workload around exams period. If it wasn’t for my job, however, I’d not be able to support myself and maintain my lifestyle.”