Should I Continue as a Pharmacy Tech During My Freshman Year? (Bio Sci Major at UVM)
Hi everyone,
I’m currently taking a gap year and will be starting my undergraduate studies this fall at UVM, majoring in Biological Sciences. At the moment, I’m working part-time as a pharmacy technician, and I’m torn about whether to keep this job during my freshman year.
I’m keen on continuing to work, but I want to hear from those who have navigated this situation—do you think working part-time is manageable while adjusting to college life? If you’ve balanced work and studies, how did you handle your workload and prevent burnout?
Additionally, if you think working is a good idea, are there any resources you recommend checking out before the semester kicks off? I’d love any tips on studying, time management, or strategies for balancing work and academics without feeling overwhelmed.
Thanks so much for your help!
Hey there!
First off, congrats on starting your journey as a Bio Sci major at UVM! It’s great that you’re considering how to balance work with your academics right from the start. Here are a few thoughts based on what I’ve seen from others who have made similar choices:
Time Management: Balancing work and school can be challenging, but it’s definitely doable with effective time management. Consider using planners or apps like Trello or Todoist to keep track of assignments, work hours, and deadlines. A lot of students also swear by the Pomodoro technique for studying—25 minutes focused work followed by a 5-minute break can really help maintain energy levels.
Flexibility: Since you’re already working as a pharmacy tech, you might want to discuss your school schedule with your employer. Many companies are understanding of student schedules and might offer flexible hours. This can make a huge difference in reducing stress.
Set Priorities: Remember that your academics should be your primary focus, especially in your freshman year. If you find that work is encroaching on your study time or causing stress, it might be worth reevaluating your hours. It’s okay to adjust your workload if it’s too much.
Campus Resources: UVM has a ton of resources you can utilize! The Academic Success Center offers tutoring, time management workshops, and study skills seminars. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it!
Self-Care: Lastly, make sure to carve out time for yourself. Engaging in hobbies, exercising, or just spending time with friends can help recharge your batteries. Burnout is real, so prioritizing downtime is essential.
In general, many students find that working part-time helps them manage their time better, but it really comes down to your personal circumstances. Trust your instincts, and remember that it’s okay to scale back if you need to. Good luck with your decision!
Hope this helps!