School Productivity and Work Correlation
How many hours does Interviewee J work, and how does it affect them?
Interviewee J works an average of 37 hours a week, they state that they do not have much free time or time to complete their school work.
What was a common find regarding time management with our interviewees?
It is hard to find time to complete schoolwork when working long shifts, and they struggled to find motivation to complete school work in the mornings and at night.
Retail employees tended to work 8 to 10 hour shifts, while service employees tended to work 5 hour shifts.
Why was this project conducted?
To help faculty and administrators at Appalachian State University understand the correlation between student work and academics, and how this affects their stress levels.
How does Interviewee H's job correlate with her major?
Working at Booneshine, Interviewee H's job correlates with her major, Sustainable Development because she studies sustainable brewing practices. She has also gained customer service experience, experience working in large teams, confidence about her decision making, and advocating for herself.
How does Interviewee A manage her stress?
Interviewee A stated that she has a consistent workout routine to manage her stress levels. She explained that exercise helps her to feel less anxious and more productive.
At what age did most interviewees begin their first jobs?
Age 16.
Why do some college students require a job?
Many college students require a job to fund their education, rent, food, and support their lifestyle.
What did Interviewees tend to priortize more, school or work?
Most interviewees tended to prioritize school over work, especially students who do not have jobs that relate to their majors.
How does Interviewee L manage her time and stress as a double major in political science and economics?
She only works on weekends and does an average of 4 hours of homework per night, having a routine throughout the week. Sets aside some days for free time to destress.
Did work environment have an effect on students mental health?
Yes. Most of our interviewees had positive work environments. The main stress came from schoolwork and busy shifts.
How can Professors at Appalachian State University benefit from this research?
What interviewee said, "sometimes school makes me not want to work?"
Interviewee I
Why does interviewee J feel immense stress on a weekly basis?
She gets over-scheduled at work and has 7-8 hour days at school, leaving her with no free days.
What was a benefit that some students received from their jobs and what did many utilize it for?
Many respondents received PTO from their jobs and would use it to supplement themselves in times where they can't work as much as well as traveling. Furthermore, interviewees were shocked when they were hired and found out they received PTO from their college jobs.
How can counselors at Appalachian State University benefit from this research?
Providing tailored counseling plans for students, creating and hosting events designed to help students who work while attending school, and help identify which type of student may be at risk, need extra support, or may be more prone to burn-out during the semester.
What supplied inspiration and direction for interviewee I and K, in relation to their major and projects?
Their work!
Interviewee I is a creative writing major and Interviewee K is an interior design major who both found inspiration for school projects in their workplace at BooneShine.
What was a resounding recurrence in regards to doing school work before or after work?
Respondents found themselves lacking motivation to do school work before or after working a shift.
What skills did interviewee H learn after dealing with tough management?
She learned how to stand up for herself, be confident in her decisions, take emotion out of talks with management, be professional, even with people who she may not be super close to.
What was the major takeaway from this project?
The major takeaway from this project is that students who work while attending university feel an added sense of stress and are more prone to burnout. It is important to provide resources and information to students to help them reduce stress and prevent burnout before it begins.