School is a primary aspect of most students’ day to day life and is often accompanied by a part-time or full-time employment.
“Being a student is a job and should be looked upon as such,” said Freddie Robinson from Clinton, a freshman majoring in architecture.
“School is just like work, you have to be dedicated, you just don’t get paid until later on in life,” Robinson said.
Most students are obligated to work just to make ends meet.
“I have to work to put in half for tuition,” said Christin Sibley, a freshman from Baton Rouge majoring in nursing.
Balancing work and school is hard for Sibley, but it is often an asset to her as a student.
“It keeps me on top of school, because I have a limited amount of time to study. I have two hours (between work and school) and that is when I study,” Sibley said.
Southern University and other schools make the transition from work to school easier by providing students with in programs such as work-study.
Adrian Chapman, a sophomore from Baton Rouge majoring in accounting, says being able to work on campus is very convenient.
“You are allowed to study and do some homework, which you wouldn’t be able do at a real job,” Chapman said.
Even though work-study is an option given to students, all students who apply are not awarded the grant.
“It is OK working off campus, but payday always motivates me. I would rather have work study,” said Krystal Ward, a junior from San Diego majoring in biology.
A student who is academically successful, involved in various activities and can hold a steady job is often a role model to their peers
“I admire that they have their priorities straight and are responsible,” said Roy Henry, a sophomore from Shreveport majoring in business management.
“Going to school and working can vie for independence from your parents,” said Eric Randall, a sophomore from New Iberia majoring in family and consumer sciences.
“Some people want to feel independent. I am trying not to bother my parents for money, but we all need money,” Randall said.
