We all know that work life and school life are entirely different, but balancing both at the same time is very difficult. With the recent COVID-19 epidemic, many students work part time are now working full time because of the virus. Many college students work to pay off expenses, but going from 15 hours a week to 40 has become an issue for many. Although numerous businesses have closed, grocery stores and restaurants are still serving the community. 

College students are dealing with a confusing time, trying to find out what they want to study, paying off student loans, and now working full time. Since social distancing is in effect, students can’t meet with their friends, instructors, or fellow classmates. During this isolated time, students are even more stressed than before. 

Colleges have resorted to teaching online classes, which is the same workload, just not hands-on. Many students have not taken an online class before, and this sudden new way of learning has many students stressed. Minimal one-on-one speaking with instructors, more work-load, and oftentimes more independent. Not to mention, professors are working hard to make learning easier for students. Many professors have never taught an online class either. 

Since many grocery stores, fast food, agriculture and many other industries have been extremely busy, they have to make their employees work more. Because of employees being in high demand, many students who did not have a job before decided to apply to new jobs. Since more students are working, it is important to find out how to balance work and school. Full-time students and workers are trying hard to keep up with the homework load along with work duties. SFCC students gave us their advice in dealing with the extra workload.

Patty Rison, who takes care of two young children, from Spokane Falls Community College, said, “I think the best way to handle both workers and students is to get into a routine, for every day.” Patty Rison also shares that getting into a routine relieved a lot of stress. For example, waking up at the same time each day, setting aside time for studying and Zoom classes, and taking each day one at a time. 

Brittney Cline, a worker at Yokes and senior at Eastern Washington University, said, “My internship is very stressful because it has been moved to all online and I have to make time for that.” Brittney also expresses that “Online has been worse for me, especially being a senior.” Brittney has gone from working 25-30 hours a week to 32-40 hours a week all while balancing school, work, and an internship. 

These two individuals both have completely different lifestyles, but both agree that routines can improve how these times affect you. If you are a student and currently work full time, try to make a routine. Write down how your day will go on a piece of paper and keep it in an area you will see each day. You can also write reminders on your phone to keep track of time and what you should be doing.