Combining a job in the hospitality industry with studying can be challenging. Long workdays, irregular hours and the pressure to achieve good study results can feel overwhelming. Yet there are many students who manage to successfully combine both. With the right approach and time management skills, it is certainly possible to combine work in the hospitality industry with your studies. In this blog, we share practical tips you can use.
Make a realistic schedule
One of the most important parts of successfully combining hospitality work and study is making a realistic schedule. Make sure you have a good overview of your lecture schedule, exam dates and work schedule. Plan your study time carefully around your work hours. Be realistic and do not plan too much. Take unexpected changes in your work schedule into account and allow for some flexibility in your planning.
Use a digital calendar or scheduling app to keep track of everything. Write down deadlines for assignments and projects well in advance so you can start on time. By planning proactively, you avoid last-minute stress and can better combine both.
Communicate with your employer
Open communication with your supervisor or scheduler is important. Clearly indicate your availability and let them know when you have important lectures, practicals or exams. Most hospitality employers are quite willing to take this into account in your schedule, as long as you indicate this clearly and on time.
Also be honest about what you can handle in terms of working hours in addition to your studies. It is better to work slightly fewer hours per week and keep it up well, than to overburden yourself and let both suffer. Find a balance together that works.
Utilize idle hours smartly
Make smart use of idle moments between classes. Do you have an hour break between two classes? Use it to do some reading for your study, work on an assignment or review some exam material. Even on public transport or while waiting for work, you can often do something useful for your studies.
Also, utilize your breaks at work to relax for a while or do something for your studies if you can. That way you make the most of your idle hours. Many small moments all together mean that you don't have to schedule as many big blocks to keep up.
Take good care of yourself
Remember to take good care of yourself when combining hospitality and study. Get enough sleep, eat healthy, keep exercising and take occasional rest. With good physical and mental health, you can perform much better on both fronts.
Schedule quality time with friends and for relaxing pursuits. It is important to keep enjoying yourself in addition to working and studying. This way you will prevent burnout and keep both up longer.
Be prepared and proactive
Prepare well to make work and study go smoothly. Make sure your work clothes are washed and ironed, your books and laptop are charged in your bag, and you always have a snack and water with you. This way, you will lose less time on practical matters.
Also, be proactive in your studies. Ask teachers questions if something is not clear, work ahead when things are quiet, and form a study group for extra motivation. The more proactive you are, the better you can combine.
Evaluate and adjust
Periodically take a critical look at how combining hospitality and study is going. Do you notice that you are struggling to keep it up or is either of them suffering? Then make adjustments in time. Maybe you need to work a little less, study more efficiently or adjust your schedule.
Don't be afraid to ask for help when things get tough. Discuss it with your employer, study advisor or confidential advisor. Together you will often come to new insights and solutions.
Focus on the benefits
Finally, focus on the benefits of combining hospitality work and study. You gain valuable work experience, build a network, develop important skills and earn your own money. Moreover, you will learn to plan, prioritize and deal with pressure like no other. Skills that will benefit you for the rest of your career!
With the right mindset, tools and approach, it is definitely possible to successfully combine a hospitality job with a study. It may take some time to find the balance, but it can also bring you a lot. Hopefully these tips will help you make both a success!
We of Sparked Are specialized in hospitality staffing. We have plenty of great hospitality jobs for students and are happy to help you find the perfect side job alongside your studies!
