Jobs at university: is it fair for students to work while studying ?

Deciding whether it’s fair for university students to work while studying really depends on personal choice as it’s a matter of preference. Like anything, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. If students can effectively balance their studies with part-time work, it’s not harmful at all and working can even greatly enhance their personal development. Having a job exposes them to real working life before graduation, teaching them how to navigate the world beyond university. It helps to build professionalism, time management, and punctuality, while also providing extra income for personal expenses.

However, there is another side to it. Some students struggle to find enough time for both work and studies, and the added pressure can take a toll. In some cases, it might even end up affecting their academic performance.

When I personally reached out to students at Newcastle University to hear their thoughts on this topic, the responses were quite eye-opening. I met Georgia, a 17-year-old undergraduate studying Literature. When I asked her opinion, she said, “For me, it’s like a burden to work while being a student. It feels unfair because it adds extra pressure, which isn’t right.”

On the other hand, I spoke with Kanupriya, an international student from India pursuing her Master’s in Journalism. She shared, “It depends… For me, coming from India, the financial burden is quite high, and I can’t afford not to work. I need a part-time job to manage my living expenses here.”

This really shows how perspectives differ — for some students, working might feel optional, but for many , it’s often a financial necessity.

Newcastle’s student job market, fortunately, is pretty good. The city offers plenty of opportunities if you know where to look. With over 50,000 students living here, the city has a youthful energy that thrives on student life. There are also many on-campus jobs at Newcastle University and numerous part-time roles available across cafes, shops, and other local businesses. It’s safe to say the city is quite student-friendly when it comes to job opportunities.

If you can strike a balance between hitting the books and working, it can actually be a huge advantage. Taking up a part-time job throws you into the deep end of the real world even before graduation. You learn to deal with difficult customers, show up on time, and develop a strong sense of responsibility and professionalism. And that extra cash? It’s a lifesaver for covering rent or enjoying a night out with friends.

But let’s be real, it is not always a picture perfect thing. Trying to hustle between both work and study can feel like squeezing a week’s worth of tasks into a single day. The strain can build up, leaving you exhausted and overwhelmed. Fair or not, it’s all about making it work for you — but there’s no denying it can be tough when the pressure starts piling on.