working in college?

[Jkadkins]

Hi! Im looking to start college in the fall and something on wondering is if I should carry a job while attending school. I have heard a lot of arguments on either side and I know there are many great minds on this site willing to share advice!

Basically I don't have a rich family to put me through college AND pay for my apartment and life expenses.. I'm stuck doing it all myself! Luckily financial aid is helping a lot in my bracket.

My question is...should I look into loans to supplement my income and not work through school so I can soley focus on education? ( I'm not a lazy person...I have no problem working if that's the best route..I just know nursing school is quite demanding and without decent grades you won't go very far.) If so what kind of loans should I look into?

Any reasons for or against would be appreciated! Thanks in advance guys!

[cracklingkraken, ASN, RN]

It really depends on how good you are at time management. Yes, nursing school is demanding, but if you can incorporate good study habits and not waste any time, I think it is quite possible to hold a job while attending school. There are some people who manage full-time jobs (I'm not sure how they do this), so I think a part-time job is feasible.

[Ash1121]

Hey Jkadkins! I was in the same boat as you before I started college. I am about to finish my second semester next week. My advice to you is that it is absolutely possible to work and go to school as long as you stay organized and on top of your reading. I'm not sure if you are going to class full-time or will be in a hybrid program, but regardless, organization is the key. Once you become dis-organized you'll feel stressed, rushed and as though you have no time to re-organize. Get a handle on everything when the semester starts (due dates, test dates, auto tutorial days, etc.) and try and plan ahead. Make lunch/dinner ahead of time... things like that will make the semester go much smoother. And don't forget to pre-read before going to class (as much as you can at least). Good luck to you!

Ashley