When you get admission to the University of Tartu, many students are already working or have started looking for a job after arriving. Some secure full-time positions, while others opt for part-time work. Along with this, the stress of managing studies alongside work begins to build up. But there’s no need to worry! In this blog, I will share how you can set your routine in an organized way to manage both your job and studies efficiently.
1. Manage Your Timetable Without Panicking
The first step is to schedule your time properly. If you have a job, first analyze your study schedule and identify which courses you are taking, which can be attended online, and which require in-person attendance. Once you have this clarity, align your study schedule with your job hours and create a timetable that helps you manage both without stress. Proper scheduling is key to maintaining balance.
Personally, I have found that planning makes things much easier. Before the week starts, I use notes to list all the assignments I need to complete and the tasks I have for my job. Then, I prioritize them based on the deadline, figuring out which assignments are due soon and which tasks require immediate attention. This small habit of making weekly timetables has really helped me stay on track and avoid last-minute panic. Breaking tasks into manageable steps makes the workload feel much lighter and more achievable.
2. Handling Assignments, Quizzes, and Projects Alongside Work
Balancing work and assignments requires time management. Utilize your job’s break time wisely, stay focused on work during working hours, take a proper lunch break, and once your shift ends, shift your attention entirely to your studies. Dedicate 2 to 3 hours daily to pending assignments, reviewing lecture slides, or preparing for quizzes.
For a structured approach, assign a specific day to each course. This ensures that you have covered all subjects by the end of the week without feeling overwhelmed. Use Saturday to wrap up any unfinished work. Group projects require coordination, so I usually arrange online meetings with my teammates to discuss and divide tasks, making workloads more manageable.
I prefer completing quizzes and assignments at night, as it helps me stay productive during the week. Most of my work is already completed by Saturday, leaving me with minimal pending tasks. This allows me to reserve Sundays entirely for myself to relax, cook something nice, go out with friends, and recharge for the upcoming week.
3. Communicate Openly with Your Employer and Professors
Most companies are flexible in such cases if you have an important lecture, quiz, or exam. Discuss your academic commitments with your manager so they can accommodate you accordingly. I spoke with my employer about my exams, and they understood enough to provide me with relaxed hours. Many companies even offer study leave during exam periods, which helps in balancing work and studies. Similarly, maintain transparency with your professors if work commitments clash with studies. Honesty helps manage expectations on both ends.
4. Prioritizing Health and Mental Well-being
Taking care of your health is crucial during this process. Start your day with a proper breakfast, take a lunch break, and unwind with a walk or any relaxing activity after work. I often walk by the river, which helps me relax and clear my mind. On sunny days, sitting in the sun is incredibly relaxing for me. If you enjoy cooking, that can be a great way to unwind, too; I personally enjoy it. In Tartu, walking around the city also has its own charm, and all these activities help me mentally recharge. If you ever feel overwhelmed, take a short break, eat something, and remind yourself that everything is under control. Sticking to your schedule will help reduce mental stress, as an organized approach prevents the brain from feeling overwhelmed.
5. Incorporate Physical Activity
Engage in some form of physical exercise, such as going to the gym, running, or cycling. Physical activity not only keeps your body fit but also improves mental well-being, helping you stay productive and motivated. I personally go to the gym, and I also love cycling, especially during the summer. Cycling in Tartu is a lot of fun, as it’s such a cycle-friendly city, and it helps me stay active while enjoying the outdoors.
Final Thoughts
Prioritizing your health, organizing your tasks, and maintaining a structured routine will make balancing work and studies easier. The initial phase might be challenging, but following these steps will make things much more manageable. Stay consistent, and soon, it will all become a habit!
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