The challenges of working and studying at the same time

Working and studying can be challenging for several reasons. I chose to work while studying as a student at the Catholic University in Erbil in order to support my family, gain experience, and become financially independent. Although it may seem like a good idea, working and studying at the same time is very difficult. Balancing both responsibilities requires excellent time management, energy, and discipline, and not everyone can easily handle this pressure.

One of the biggest difficulties is managing my time. While working, I have often struggled to attend classes, finish assignments on time, and prepare for exams. I have taken some exams without preparing well for them. After spending several hours at work, I am usually exhausted, with little time or energy left for studying. This can result in missing assignment deadlines, receiving lower grades than anticipated, or even skipping classes to get some rest. It is hard managing both schedules because of daily challenges, especially when work shifts change or exams come up.

Another problem is stress. While working, I have experienced physical and mental fatigue. I usually have to wake up early for class, which can be difficult, and I stay late to finish work tasks. The pressure of working and studying caused me stress and anxiety. However, I mostly neglected the stress and pressure just to get by. When I don’t get enough rest, I feel sleepy, and my concentration decreases, affecting both my job performance and my ability to learn.

My third difficulty is social life and personal time. I often miss spending time with friends and family or relaxing. This can make me feel a little lonely or isolated at times. Over time, this lack of balance caused me to lose motivation for work and studying. There is not enough time for hobbies or outside activities except for football. And this is one of the key points I would like to make.

Sport and exercise are crucial in helping us maintain a sense of perspective, but also to release stress and become reinvigorated again. I am very active in football and enjoy leading my team. The expression "Healthy Body, Healthy Mind" rings true.

Leading the team at CUE

However, I believe that working while studying in the English Department has taught me valuable lessons. It made me more responsible and independent, and it helped me become better at managing my time. I also gained real-life experience that will benefit me in my future career.

In conclusion, balancing work and study is not easy. It comes with many challenges, such as time management issues, stress, and lack of rest. However, I believe that if students plan carefully, stay organised, and take care of their health, they can overcome these difficulties and succeed in both. Taking time out in nature, away from the trials and tribulations of daily life is also important, especially if with friends and family.

Hiking in the beautiful nature of Kurdistan