In addition, working can facilitate personal growth and help students acquire better time management and communication skills. Students with work experience usually gain an edge in applying for part-time employment while they are in school or in permanent employment after they graduate. The experience doesn't necessarily have to be in your major field. According to one expert, only 50 percent of graduates work in their major field, although it may be advisable to gain technical expertise before graduation through working in some fields such as journalism and advertising. Dr. Howard Figler argues that the worst experience is better than no experience, and we would agree.
Skills are transferable and combinable.
Not all students should necessarily work every semester if they have an option not to. New and transferring students might like to take a semester or two to adjust their study schedule before looking for a job. Some studies show that students who work have better grade point averages. However, students should keep their eye on their educational goals and not work excessive hours that impact on their study time. Most students work about 12-15 hours per week, although some work as many as 20 hours per week or more when school is in session.