"I use an app called Time Tree to plan ahead"

"I’ve had a few different jobs during my time at Queen’s; I’ve worked as a shop assistant since 2021 (and I still work there at the weekends), and I’ve also worked as a barista on top of that between 2021 and 2023. Safe to say I know a thing or two about time management and balancing responsibilities!

My number one tip is that making weekly or monthly plans will make life so much easier to handle! I use an app called Time Tree to plan ahead, and this allows me to create a financial plan that aligns with my studies, so that I can ensure I’m able to take a little bit of time off during the really busy exam period or take more shifts at work when I know I have more free time from university."

Grace Nelson, Law with Spanish, Donegal, Ireland

"I use a mixture of a physical planner, Microsoft Outlook Calendar and Teams to stay on top of all of my tasks"

"In the first year of my undergraduate studies, I was offered to be a Queen's Student Ambassador. Ever since I was involved as a student ambassador, I believe I have truly learned and grown as a student and an individual. Queen's often offers many different temporary part-time jobs which students can apply for and every time I have been honoured to be selected, it has enriched my student experience. However, it may be difficult to balance responsibilities, to which I believe it is essential to plan and prioritise. I use a mixture of a physical planner, Microsoft Outlook Calendar and Teams to stay on top of all of my tasks. I have also found techniques such as the Eisenhower Matrix very useful in balancing my responsibilities."

Priscilla Jeyaraj, PhD Medicine, Malaysia

"Set yourself a realistic schedule"

"I worked part-time on weekends during my first and second years. The main piece of advice I would offer is to really use your time wisely, especially in the gaps between classes. Set yourself a realistic schedule and try to stick to it so that you can stay on top of assignments and job responsibilities. Personally, I found having a physical planner to be useful. There is something really satisfying about crossing off tasks, it keeps you motivated and organised throughout the week!"

Chloe McCann, BA English, NI

"Prioritise self-love and self-care above all else"

"I study full-time and have encountered a few moments of stress and burnout on my academic journey. I'd advise students to prioritise self-love and self-care above all else. Whenever the world feels like it's caving in, I remind myself not to take life too seriously. No matter how many assignments pile up or how much anxiety creeps up, I'm still living my dream life in a beautiful place, surrounded by beautiful people. I'm still studying something that lights up my world. No amount of stress can steal that joy. That joy helps me find balance."

Brittany Marasciulo-Rivera, MA Creative Writing, New York, USA

Find out more

Work while you study

How Queen’s Can Support Your Future Career

How to Manage Part-time Jobs or Internships Alongside Your Studies

Queen's student bloggers