At one point, I insisted that my high school-aged kids get summer jobs, but I wanted them to focus on their education during the school year. However, my perspective shifted when my daughter began college last year at Guilford College, a private school in North Carolina. While I still emphasized the importance of dedicating herself to her studies, I realized the significance of her contributing to a portion of her tuition fees. Encouraging her to pursue a job not only instills a sense of ownership over her education but also facilitates time management and valuable experiences.
I expressed to my daughter the necessity of finding a job within two weeks of settling in, despite her initial reluctance due to stress and academic workload. Upon discovering that she spent excessive hours in the library, I encouraged her to use her time efficiently and effectively. Through some coaxing, she secured two on-campus jobs, working around five to ten hours a week, striking a balance that didn't compromise her academics.
According to my daughter, her job has significantly improved her time management, preventing unproductive leisure activities. Additionally, she has learned budgeting skills and enjoys the independence of managing her expenses. Her employment at the college has also honed her skills, providing her with valuable experiences for her future career.
I've come to believe that on-campus jobs offer benefits for college students, whether they're for financial support, valuable work experiences, or flexible schedules that align with their studies. This approach has proven highly beneficial for my daughter, and I believe it can be equally advantageous for other students.