Having a part-time job can be more than a few extra bucks for the weekend.  Here is why you might want to consider going downtown or looking on campus for a job.

Being a college student, there are many things you have to manage, such as homework, attending school events, socializing with others, athletics, and of course, you have t make time to watch Netflix… We can get pretty busy.  Getting your degree is of utmost importance, and we slowly learn to turn away from our procrastinating tendencies.  However, if you find yourself with a chunk of free time, it could be a good idea to invest in a part-time job.  Whether it is on campus or in the local community, having a job can come with some truly fantastic perks.  While school should always come first, having a part-time job can be beneficial for these reasons:

Extra Money

This point pretty much speaks for itself.  Having a little extra cash here and there is never a bad thing.  Having that steady cash flow let’s you buy the little things without the extra stress: gas, groceries, the occasional splurge.  Let yourself pay for something other than school tuition or bills.  It is important to give back to yourself.  Did I mention employee discounts?

Budgeting

Having a part-time job also means having a regular paycheck.  However, whether it’s on bills, gas, or socializing, money goes quick. It is rewarding when you know you’re using your money wisely, especially when you can even put some aside for saving.  Learning to budget is one of the first things we learn with scheduled paychecks, and it is a valuable skill you’ll need throughout your life.

Balance

Time: there’s never enough of it.  We fill our schedules up with the responsibilities and tasks we must do, only to have little time for our interests and hobbies.  One of the greatest skills a part-time job can provide you with is time-management which helps you find that balance between socializing, work, rest, errands, and everything else going on in your life.  Finding this balance doesn’t just make you responsible; it can also show you what you value most in life.  When you suddenly don’t have time for something, you notice how much you valued that pastime.  Knowing what is most important can help you determine how to organize your time, say “no” to the unnecessary, and allow you to achieve a stress-free lifestyle.

Networking

No matter where you are, you can always meet new people.  Whether or not your job is related to what you want to do after graduation, you are still gaining skills and relationships that can lead to countless opportunities. You can also make awesome new friends!  Co-workers can tell you the do’s and don’ts of your college town, fun things to do, and introduce you to everything the area offers.   Everybody knows something or somebody, so value all the connections you make.  You never know what could happen.

Experience

Knowing how to act professionally is an important and valuable skill.  You will always have your bad and good work experiences, but knowing how to deal with both will you give the essential abilities for your next career.  Whether it is dealing with new projects, new co-workers, or variable hours, holding a part-time job will give you the skills and maturity that future employers will value.  Also, your employer’s reference can be the difference between landing your next dream job or not, so understanding the importance of a positive work environment is vital.