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Tahmid Sakib is a second-year Department of Mass Communication and Journalism student at the University of Dhaka. Alongside his studies, he's already working as a campus reporter for a well-reputed newspaper. But how does he juggle academics and professional life so effectively? It's all about time management," says Tahmid. "We all have 24 hours in a day. Classes and studying might take some time, but there's plenty left for other activities." He believes student life shouldn't just be about textbooks and exams. There's room for extracurricular activities, hobbies, and even professional pursuits. Tahmid's thoughts reflect a growing trend of students seeking professional experience while still enrolled. This trend has numerous benefits with some demerits as well.
Financial independence
One of the main reasons behind doing a job is to gain independence. Our country's life shifts once a student passes their higher secondary school. Students from around the country come to Dhaka to pursue higher education. A completely different lifestyle gives these students a valuable life lesson: to become financially independent.
Ali Younis is one of those students who came from a distant part of the country to study in Dhaka.
"For me, Dhaka was a dream city. With all my parent's savings, I came here to study and make a good living once I graduated. But the living cost gave me a shock. From renting a house to transport, all you need is money. The amount of money that took a month to be spent here is gone in three days, and I am not exaggerating. I am adult enough; I don't want to ask for more than the amount allocated. So, I managed a job for that extra money." said Ali Younis, studying management at the national university. Earning an income helps students reduce their dependence on loans or family financial support. What exactly happened with Ali Younis?
However, this enforcement might harm students' studies. Employers sometimes take advantage of the financial needs of students.
"He lost his father at a very young age. He was a brilliant student and a favourite to his teachers. But the need for a job besides academics and the glory of self-dependency took his brilliancy away," speaking of her son (Hamim Omer) mother expresses her feelings. Hamim Omer is in his final year of BBA at a national university and working in a media house, seconded what his mother said. "Media houses offer a terrible amount of salary even to the freshers. In Dhaka, it doesn't matter where you live; You cannot manage your livelihood with only 12 to 15 thousand takas a month. Yes, I am self-dependent, but at what cost? My study?" says Hamim Omer.
Learning practically
The gradual digitization of the job sector has pushed students to learn more than their textbooks offer. An undergrad from the Department of Computer Science has a lot to learn by doing a freelance job. Computer Science is just an example. Companies hire part-timers in any field, which allows students to understand theoretical concepts in real-world scenarios, solidifying their understanding and developing the practical skills employers seek.
Building a network
Whether freelancing or working part-time, once students get into the job field, they get to know many people, making them well-connected with their alumni. Sanzida Fariha studies BBA at North South University. She has an interest in event management and photography, so she started pursuing freelance work from work in the fourth semester of her academic career. These freelances have opened a door for her to flourish more. "By nature, I am timid, but simultaneously, I wanted to work and build my career. My freelance work became a medium of talk where I could meet my seniors and alums and show my work. It helped me build a solid network."
Well-rounded development
Students' holistic change during their academics prepares them for future hurdles. However, having tremendous academic results is a bonus and essential as well. Work-study-personal life management, self-time, taking care of mental and physical health, and time management are as important as building a self-reliant, well-secured career. In today's world, time management is a skill. Industry leaders suggest having a decent, well-maintained routine regarding time management.
Studying efficiently is a must. How can you achieve that?
Suday Saha, who has an established business, graduated from East-West University in 2020. He ran his business and maintained a scholarship at the same time.
He believes 'Time management' was crucial to his success.
"I studied non-stop for 30 minutes to one hour, which I found an efficient way to complete the lessons and get time to concentrate more on my business. I received a dean's award and am now running two businesses," says Sunday Saha.
Munzereen Shahid, the teacher of 10 Minute School, says in her social media videos that CGPA is essential. If not, a student is a topper, but she believes they should maintain a decent result to apply for a job or pursue studies abroad.
Tahsan Khan pursued his passion for music while maintaining his academic results. The Badshah of Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan, also had a tremendous academic record while excelling in sports. Doing a job can make students self-dependent and help them flourish, which is accurate; however, people should also acknowledge the other side effects.