Balancing Full-Time Apprenticeship and University Studies
As a film and media student, finding a job in this industry can be challenging due to its less prestigious reputation. To build my CV and ensure I have connections and opportunities after graduation, I’m actively seeking valuable work experiences.
I’m excited to share that I’ve secured a full-time, 3-month apprenticeship (32 hours per week) at a well-known film distribution company, surrounded by some fantastic professionals in the field. While they inquired about my studies, I didn’t want to come off as uncertain, so I confidently assured them I could handle it all. However, I’m starting to worry that it might be a bit too much to juggle!
I’m determined to finish my degree on time, so I’ll pursue both my studies and the apprenticeship simultaneously, aiming to gain experience and credit points without delay.
I’ve previously managed 20-hour work weeks, so I’m curious about how I’ll cope with the transition to 32 hours.
Has anyone successfully balanced a similar workload? I’d love to hear your experiences to ease my mind as I prepare for this next chapter!
It sounds like you’re really ambitious and proactive about building your career in film and media, which is great! Balancing a full-time apprenticeship with university studies is definitely a challenge, but it can also open up a lot of opportunities for you.
Many people have successfully managed similar situations, and it often comes down to good time management and self-care. Here are a few tips that might help you navigate this:
Set Clear Priorities: Assess your coursework and your apprenticeship tasks to see where you can allocate your time most effectively. Make sure to keep track of deadlines for both school and work.
Create a Schedule: A well-structured schedule can help you visualize your time commitments. It’ll also allow you to plan breaks and downtime, which are crucial for avoiding burnout.
Communicate: Keep an open line of communication with both your university professors and your apprenticeship supervisors. Let them know your commitments; they may offer flexibility or support if needed.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to lean on peers, friends, or family for support when things get overwhelming. They can provide different perspectives and lend a helping hand.
Take Care of Yourself: Make sure you’re also making time for relaxation and fun. Balancing work, study, and life is vital for maintaining your motivation and mental well-being.
Be Flexible and Reflect: After a few weeks, take a moment to assess how things are going. If you find it too overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reassess your commitments.
Remember, this experience could be incredibly valuable in terms of networking and skills development, so it’s definitely worth the effort! Good luck, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when you need it. You’ve got this!