Over the past generation, attending college has been known as something that can be a strenuous activity for many. Students are working toward degrees that will hopefully help them land a decent-paying job someday. Yet along with the college life comes responsibilities, and along with responsibilities come finances and expenses. A majority of the students find themselves juggling hours in both their studies and the work force.

The concern that arises as a result of this three-ring circus is whether or not students are experiencing high stress. Though the rumor has it that both working and attending school simultaneously does raise an individual’s stress level, this does not seem to be the case on the Sac State campus.

Jon Godfrey is working at the Financial Aid Office while working toward an master’s degree in business and seems to keep a level head.

“I work 20 hours (per) week in the mornings and have night classes,” Godfrey said. “(Working at the Financial Aid Office) is open about my schedule and it’s good experience.”

Junior psychology major Jeff McVarish works at Peak Adventures and points out that going to school and working can actually be a fun experience.

“They’re both separate living processes,” McVarish said. “In general, it’s pretty easygoing.”

Not all students enjoy every moment of the busy schedule though. Sophomore family and consumer sciences major Chelsey Kaiser is taking 13 units this semester and is working at the Child Care Center between classes. Even though she enjoys what she does greatly, she admits that her schedule can be quite hectic at times.

“(My job) relaxes me. It is a nice escape from school, but my schedule (in general) is pretty stressful,” said Kaiser.

There are only 24 hours in a day. The average student takes a total of 12 units per semester. It is assumed that each unit equals around three hours worth of homework and studies. If this full time student was also working 40 hours per week, which is what it takes to be considered full time, and gets eight hours of sleep each night, that only leaves that individual 36 hours left in the entire week to eat, shower and socialize. Though this might sound ridiculous, it is being done.

There are plenty of jobs that are available which are willing to work around students’ busy lifestyles. Most employers understand that being a student is time-consuming and these employers are more than happy to help. If you are a student and are looking for a job that will complement your busy school schedule, there will be a career fair that will take place on Feb. 20.

Sarah Kay Hannon can be reached at [email protected]