Should I choose between work and college?
I’m a 21-year-old student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. After my first year, where I achieved perfect grades, I had to start working because my parents could no longer support my education financially. For the past two years, I’ve managed to pay for my tuition, travel, and attend various training programs—all while enjoying my independence with my own income.
However, last month I decided to quit my job because I realized I was falling behind in my studies. There are still many courses I need to finish, and graduating now feels like an overwhelming challenge. The job also took a toll on my mental health; working 42 hours a week with only Sundays off left me exhausted. My parents now blame my struggles in college on my lack of effort, citing countless students who balance full-time jobs with academic success. But I found it incredibly difficult to study and often needed to sleep after work instead.
Now that I’ve left my job, I’m feeling quite lost. My savings are dwindling, and I’m having a tough time focusing on my studies because I keep procrastinating. I need to make a decision soon: Should I quit college and go back to work, or should I stick with my studies and look for a job after graduation? I could really use some advice, Reddit!
It sounds like you’re in a really tough situation, and it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed. Here are a few things to consider as you make your decision:
Evaluate Your Priorities: Think about what’s most important to you right now. Do you value completing your degree more than gaining work experience immediately? Having a degree can open more doors in the long run, especially in a field like computer science.
Financial Considerations: Look at your current financial situation. Do you have enough savings to support yourself while you focus solely on college? If not, could you take on a part-time job that would allow you to balance work and school more effectively?
Support Systems: Have an honest conversation with your parents about your struggles. It might be tough, but explaining how their comments affect you could help them understand your situation better. Also, consider reaching out to counselors or academic advisors at your college; they might have resources to help you manage your workload or cope with stress.
Explore Alternatives: If finishing your degree feels unmanageable right now, are there ways you might take fewer courses or extend your timeline? Some students successfully take a break from college or switch to part-time to prevent burnout.
Mental Health: Don’t underestimate the importance of mental health. If you’re feeling depressed, it may be beneficial to seek professional help. Taking care of your mental well-being will be crucial whether you choose to continue college or go back to work.
Flexibility: Remember that many paths can lead to success. Some people find fulfilling careers without finishing their degrees, while others struggle without one. Look into internships or apprenticeships that may allow you to gain experience without the full-time commitment of a job.
Ultimately, you need to choose the option that makes you feel more secure and fulfilled in the long run. Take some time to weigh your choices, consider talking with trusted mentors, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help. Good luck!