I started working my senior year of high school as a hostess at a Italian restaurant down the street from my house. I loved that job, I loved having a job. I worked there for about 6 months before I left to go to Lowe’s. Lowe’s was a great job, but I couldn’t see myself moving up and there were other things going on that led me to apply at my current job, Costco. I started working at Costco my first week of my freshman year of college. It was a lot of change all at once, but I loved it. I love Costco and I have loved the year I have spent there!

I struggled a little balancing college and school at the beginning, but like anything you have to adjust to the new routine. I had to figure out my schedule and what worked best for me. I had to put work on the back burner and ask for less hours so I can achieve excellence in college, but finding a job that allows you to do that is so beneficial. I have learned so much in my two years in the workforce.

I learned how to use my time wisely. Now I only have certain times to do certain things which helps me focus. When I have work at 4, but I paper due the next day I know I have to get the paper done at the latest by 3. I learned that procrastination would not be my friend and I do everything in my power to not fall trap to procrastination. I try to always work ahead so I am not stressing before work trying to make a deadline, or coming home from work to piles of homework. My planner is my best friend to make sure I don’t forget anything since I am balancing multiple schedules.

I learned valuable life skills. I deal with difficult people so much better now that I did before working. I work in groups a lot easier now since I have the experience at my jobs. I found a new value in other peoples strengths, I learned how to see people for the good they bring to the team or group rather than focusing on the negatives. I’ve never had problems with working in groups, but I always hated working in groups and dealing with people I didn’t like, but now it is so much easier!

I learned how to listen to authority and look at what’s best for the group longterm and not in the moment. I’ve never been disrespectful or rude to teachers or bosses, but learning how to just blindly listen has always been hard for me, but now I understand it better. I see things in a bigger picture instead of just in the moment about me. I see how what I am told to do or what my decisions are can effect the team in a long term effect.

Working has enhanced my college experience so much and has taught me lessons that I would not be able to get in the classroom. Do you work and go to school? What things have you learned through your experiences, let me know in the comments!