College is expensive, everyone knows that. I couldn’t afford it, and the “estimated family contribution” seems to be outlandish. I don’t have that cash, and neither do my parents. So, I got a job. Many may wonder how I do this, but it’s really not that bad. It just takes a little knowledge to get it all done!

I didn’t start out wanting a job through college, I just got one and kept it. I work in a coffee shop, I am sure there are plenty around your campus. If you are willing to learn and work hard, you’ll do great in any place. I love my job, because I found a place where I fit in the atmosphere and the work load. I am not worried about tackling new things and talking to people. You have to go through your personal skills (honestly) and figure out where you think you’ll be happy. If you hate your job, you hate your life.

I scheduled my classes extremely close together. This way, after class I can still get in plenty of hours each week. Check with the places you are applying and see when they would want to schedule you, and try to get classes around that. Days off are great catch-up days. Make sure school comes first, you can always switch shifts or call in sick. You can’t just call in sick on your school work. Being organized is a big key, and making sure you have things in three piles (most important on top, and going down): Must be done today, should do today, and would like to do today. This simply strategy will ensure that everything you need to do gets done.

Among all the information you will find online, scheduling is your best friend. You can find free “appointment planner” sheets on Google. These will allow you to plan every hour or every half hour. In order to save copies, I covered mine in clear packing tape. I can use dry-erase markers and plan out my week. It’s a great way to make sure I am not overbooking myself. You can rotate the days, once Monday is over write the next Monday. I love making sure I am completely up-to-date on when and where I need to be.

College is rough, and it's rough keeping up with your job, too. Sometimes, it's inevitable. Stay focused, stay happy, and stay organized and you’ll do fine. It’ll all get done. Good luck, workin’ guy/gal.