One of the best ways to develop relationships on your campus is to get an on-campus job. Generally, your on-campus supervisors may be much more flexible than off-campus employers in helping you balance your study demands and your work schedule. You might not make as much money working on campus as you would in an off-campus job, but the relationships you’ll develop with important people who care about your success in college and who will write those all-important reference letters make on-campus employment well worth it. Consider finding a job related to your major. For example, if you are a computer science major, you might be able to work in a computer lab. That work could help you gain knowledge and experience and make connections with experts in your field.

If an on-campus job is not available or you don’t find one that appeals to you, an off-campus job can allow you to meet new people in the community. If you already had a job before starting college, talk to your employer about the new demands on your time. Also keep in mind that some employers offer tuition assistance; ask to see if any such opportunities are available to you.

Wherever you decide to find a job, it’s important that you limit work to a reasonable number of hours per week. Although you might have to work to pay your tuition or living expenses, many college students work too many hours just to support a certain lifestyle. Be careful to maintain a reasonable balance between work and study. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking, “I can do it all.” Too many college students have found that trying to do it all means not doing anything well.