For many students, the 3:30 bell means extracurriculars, sports, or a frantic bus ride home. But for others, the work has only just begun as they head to their afterschool jobs. With four to five hour shifts awaiting them, time for other activities can seem to vanish and homework can become a hassle. In response, employed students find ways to maximize their time and minimize their stress. What are some of their recommendations for efficient time-management and scheduling?
Since they have to work shortly after school ends, employed students have to search for time to complete their homework. Oftentimes, they have to carefully schedule their day to allot enough time for schoolwork. This could range from grabbing a few minutes before the school day starts to using an entire work break. Most often, though, these busy students take advantage of any free time during the school day. Regardless, completing homework becomes a game of strategy. Avery Wicker, a junior working at Chick-fil-A five days a week, will call off work if she has a high workload that day. “Prioritizing school is important to succeed,” she said.
On the off chance that there is still work to be done, working students may have to stay up late to finish everything. While this technique may get the job done, it can lead to several late nights a week. Studies show that almost three-fourths of high school students get less than the recommended eight hours of sleep, and that losing sleep can lead to a significant drop in school performance. Junior and Playa Bowls employee Eugenia Shtern agrees that finishing work is not worth compromising sleep, so she uses whatever time she has to complete schoolwork so she can get enough rest. “Getting more sleep with less homework helps you work the next day,” she said.
Despite timing difficulties, a demanding schedule often gives employed students a supportive community. Whether at work, school, or home, these students know that they have people who care about them and are willing to lend a hand when juggling work and school becomes difficult. Oftentimes, working students cite their coworkers as one of their favorite parts of their job. Having a friendly, connected working community decreases stress and emphasizes encouragement and trust between coworkers. Shtern appreciates the positive working environment at Playa Bowls. “You can relax when you know you are surrounded by not only good workers but good people,” she said.
Although they juggle busy schedules, North Atlanta’s working Warriors rise to the occasion with efficient scheduling and trust in peers and coworkers.
