Equipo Bilingüismo CEIPSO Miguel de Cervantes

Part-time jobs – a benefit or a burden?

Having a part time job whilst studying can be very hard – but I think it's useful. Today we're going to talk about part time jobs whilst studying at school or university.

Hi! I'm Ciaran and I'm 23 years old. I've been working since I was 16 so you can tell I've had a lot of experiences with work, especially whilst studying!

In Scotland, I was working at a furniture store called IKEA. However, I used to work at a clothes shop called ZARA. In IKEA I worked in the customer service department – yes, I have horrible stories (but that’s for another time). I had to make sure that the stores' policy was followed and that customers left happy. My working hours changed all the time, but normally I worked evenings and weekends – 12 hours a week. My salary? Very competitive for my age and good for working in a store. My team was 70 people, very large but always interesting and there was ALWAYS gossip.

To find a job I started walking around my neighbourhood with my CV (curriculum vitae). However, the best way to find a job is online. I wanted a part-time job because I needed money. When I was offered an interview, I was scared, but when I went everything was fine. They asked me about myself, my previous work experience, and if I knew anything about the company. It is always good to practice a fake interview with your friends or family, and to do basic research about the organisation’s values and history. Earning money is good because I can buy my own clothes, go on holiday, and go out to eat with friends!

Now, I'm going to interview my friend Adam, who works in an office.

I am going to ask him about his job, let's go!

Would you like to introduce yourself Adam?

Hello! My name is Adam. I am 25 years old. I work in an office and I'm from Glasgow, Scotland! I've lived here all my life. I live in a flat with my girlfriend and puppy.

What did you study to get this job?

I studied politics at the University of Glasgow. To get my job, you do not need to have experience or have studied business, but it is useful. Nowadays companies want employees from all walks of life and from different backgrounds.

What was your first job?

During my studies, I worked at McDonald’s, I really liked it, but I could not do it forever. I think it's important l to have a lot of experience before working in a business environment. I worked 16 hours a week whilst in secondary school and then with university too.

Do you have any advice for a new person?

To work in this environment, you need to be disciplined. However, the job is interesting and fun because you meet new people every day. I would recommend it to everyone! In my job I need to use a computer and printer everyday. Additionally, I need to answer the phone.

Finally, do you have a good work-life balance?

Yes, it is very important that I see my friends and family! Also, I play tennis and go to the gym every week. I don't worry about work when I'm on holiday.

Adam, thank you! Your point of view is interesting. I think it is very important to learn about your experience in the world of work!

That's all for today, thank you for reading my blog. See you next time, Ciaran!