Working Students: University Life And Employment

University is expensive, and many students are caught out by how much money they need to spend. As a result, a large number of students work part- or full-time while studying. In the UK, approximately 59% of students work while attending university, with 45% of students having a part-time job and 13% having a full-time job in term time or the holidays. A 2013 study by the NUS and Endsleigh Insurance found that 57% of students hold down a part-time job while at university, with nine out of ten of those students working up to 20 hours per week. A survey by Endsleigh in 2015 found that 77% of students were working in some capacity, with 57% of those working to help pay for accommodation, food and household bills, and 56% to earn extra cash for socialising. A 2023 report found that 39% of undergraduate students work 30 hours a week or more, and 25% of college students work full-time while also attending college full-time.

The percentage of students working while studying

The percentage of students who work while studying varies across different countries and years. For instance, in 2021, 23% of young people aged between 15 and 29 in formal education across the EU were also employed. However, the percentage of students working varies significantly by country, with the Netherlands having the highest share of students employed while still in education (70%), followed by Denmark (49%) and Germany (42%).

In the UK, approximately 59% of students work while attending university, with 45% of students having a part-time job and 13% having a full-time job in term time or during the holidays. A survey by Endsleigh found a slightly higher percentage, with 77% of students taking on some form of job, and 57% of those working to help pay for accommodation, food, and bills.

In the US, the percentage of working college students also appears to be high, with 25% of college students working full-time while attending college full-time, and 81% of part-time undergraduate students being employed in 2018.

The decision to work while studying is a personal one and depends on various factors, including financial needs, time management skills, and university recommendations. While working can provide extra income and help develop life skills, it is important to consider the potential impact on academic performance and mental health.

The impact of working on academic performance

Working while studying is common, with at least half of all students taking on some form of paid employment during their time at university. This can be for a variety of reasons, from financial necessity to gaining work experience and building a CV. However, the impact of working on academic performance is a complex issue that has been the subject of much research and debate.

The Negative Impact

Several studies have found that working while studying can negatively affect academic performance. One study by Meaghan Dixon, a former English Literature and Film Studies student, found that her grades suffered as a result of working two part-time jobs, with an average of 15-20 hours of work per week. She noted that her student life was non-existent, and she was either working, studying, or recovering from shifts. Similarly, a student from Sheffield University who worked a full-time job alongside full-time studies reported that while it was possible with careful time management, it did affect her academic work, and she had to reduce her working hours. Another student from the University of Dundee who worked 40 hours a week while studying full-time English achieved a 2:1, but believed she could have gotten a First if she had worked less.

The Positive Impact

However, working while studying can also have positive effects on academic performance. A student from the University of Hertfordshire who worked as a cloakroom attendant at the Student Union found that his job allowed him to live more comfortably, socialise more, and meet new people, without negatively impacting his studies. Another student from Sheffield University who worked part-time at Topshop reported that it was fine and only cut down on her slobbing time. Additionally, a small minority of students in the study "Balancing the Books: How Student Employment During the Semester Affects Academic Achievement" mentioned advantages such as learning time management and developing a strong work ethic.

Strategies for Success

Successful strategies for managing work and studies include careful time management and being willing to do university work during late evenings or other non-traditional hours. The type of job and flexibility of hours can also make a difference. For example, a student from the University of Hertfordshire found that working for the Student Union allowed for more flexible hours and the option to work reduced hours during busier study periods.

Recommendations from Universities

Most universities recommend that students only work a maximum of between 10 and 15 hours per week during the academic term to maintain a healthy work-study balance. Oxford University takes a more stringent approach, not allowing students to undertake part-time work during term time except under "exceptional circumstances". Proponents of this policy argue that it frees students from the constraints of work, allowing them to fully engage with their degree and university experience without falling behind in their studies or social life.

The influence of parents on students' decisions to work

Working while studying at university is a common phenomenon, with many students undertaking paid work to cover their living expenses, socialising costs, and other financial needs. While some students work part-time, others manage a full-time job alongside their academic commitments. This situation raises the question of how parents influence their children's decisions to work while pursuing a university education. This article will explore the role of parents in students' decisions to work and the potential implications for their academic performance and overall well-being.

Parental Influence on Students' Career Choices

Several studies have highlighted the significant influence of parents on their children's career choices. Onoshakpokaiye (2022) asserts that parents play a crucial role in guiding their children's career decisions, and their involvement is essential to helping students make informed choices. Knowles (1998), Marjoribanks (1997), and Mau and Bikos (2000) found that many students cited their parents as a source of inspiration for their career paths, indicating the substantial influence of parental guidance.

Keller (2004), as cited by Olaosebikan and Olusakin (2014), emphasised that parents not only influence their children's career enhancement and decision-making but also play a pivotal role in shaping their lives. Similarly, Hairston (2000) suggested that family members, particularly parents, are the most influential factor in shaping students' occupational aspirations and career choices. This influence extends beyond mere career selection, as parents also contribute to their children's professional knowledge and understanding of the requirements and roles within specific occupations.

Additionally, Lee (1984), as cited by Olaosebikan and Olusakin (2014), noted that parents' career orientations can provide children with valuable insights into the values and functions of different occupations, creating an environment that fosters career aspirations. Furthermore, students may be motivated to pursue a particular career path if they observe their parents succeeding and finding satisfaction in that field. Conversely, if students perceive their parents as unsuccessful in their profession, they may be reluctant to follow in their footsteps, regardless of any advice or encouragement given.

The Impact of Parental Influence on Students' Decisions to Work

While the influence of parents on students' career choices is well-established, the question arises as to how this translates into decisions about working while studying at university. Onoshakpokaiye (2022) found that parental roles significantly influence students' career choices, and this extends to decisions about working while studying. Students who feel supported and guided by their parents may be more inclined to seek part-time or full-time employment to gain work experience, enhance their CVs, or earn extra income to cover university expenses.

However, it is essential to consider the potential impact of parental influence on students' academic performance and overall well-being. Meaghan Dixon, a former English Literature and Film Studies student at Kingston University, worked two part-time jobs while studying, averaging 15-20 hours of work per week. She acknowledged that working was necessary to cover her living expenses, but she also believed that her academic performance suffered as a result. This experience highlights the potential challenges of balancing work and academic commitments.

On the other hand, Nathan Armes, a third-year Psychology student at the University of Hertfordshire, worked as a cloakroom attendant at his Student Union and successfully balanced his job with his studies. He attributed his employment to improved financial comfort, enhanced social life, and the opportunity to meet new people. Additionally, his work provided flexible hours, allowing him to reduce his hours during exam seasons.

In conclusion, parents undoubtedly play a pivotal role in influencing their children's career choices, and this extends to decisions about working while at university. Students who feel supported and guided by their parents may be more inclined to seek employment during their studies. However, it is essential to strike a balance, as excessive work hours can negatively impact academic performance and well-being. Therefore, universities should provide support and guidance to help students manage their academic and work commitments effectively.

The types of jobs students undertake

Students may take on part-time or full-time jobs while at university, and the nature of these jobs can vary greatly. The main reasons for working while studying are to earn extra cash for socialising and to cover the costs of accommodation, food, and other bills. In addition, some students seek to develop their life skills and enhance their CVs.

On-Campus Jobs

University campuses often offer part-time jobs to students, such as working in the student union, campus cafes, or libraries. These jobs are usually sociable and conveniently located, allowing students to easily work their shifts around their studies. Postgraduate students may also find work as teaching or research assistants.

Off-Campus Jobs

Students often find work in bars and restaurants, taking advantage of the flexible hours, sociable environment, and potential for good tips. Retail jobs are also popular, offering good working standards, flexible hours, and employee discounts. Other off-campus jobs include flyer and promotion work, house-/pet-/baby-sitting, and internships.

Freelancing and Private Tutoring

Freelancing is an option for students with skills in areas such as journalism, writing, translation, photography, web development, web design, or music and entertainment. Private tutoring is another way for students to earn money, especially for those in their third or fourth year of undergraduate studies or with expertise in a particular area, such as a foreign language or musical instrument.

The number of hours worked by students

A 2013 study by the NUS and Endsleigh Insurance found that 57% of students in the UK hold down a part-time job, with nine out of ten of those students working up to 20 hours per week. A similar study in 2018 found that the average number of hours worked by students was 17.8 hours per week.

Some students choose to work full-time while studying full-time, which can be challenging but is possible with careful time management. Others may work fewer hours, with one student reporting that they worked 12-16 hours a week and did not miss out on study time, only free time.

International students in the UK on a student visa are limited to working a maximum of 20 hours per week during term time, but they can work full-time during the holidays.

In the EU, the percentage of students working part-time varies by country, with the highest percentage in the Netherlands (70%), followed by Denmark (49%) and Germany (42%).

Frequently asked questions