The Work Doesn’t End When Class Does: The After-School Hustles of Full-Time Students

For many students at Anoka-Ramsey Community College, the school day does not end when class lets out. Instead, it marks the beginning of a second shift.

From drive-thru windows and lifeguard stands to nanny services and small business ownership, students across campus are balancing coursework with the financial realities of adulthood. As tuition, housing, and everyday expenses continue to rise, working while attending college has become less of a choice and more of a necessity.

Students are finding creative and practical ways to supplement their income. Some rely on traditional part-time jobs, while others turn to freelance work or entrepreneurial ventures. Each path presents its own challenges — and lessons.

Eli, a business marketing major, attends classes full time during the day and works evenings as a lifeguard at Life Time Fitness. He describes the job as a practical way to earn income while staying focused on school.

“It doesn’t cover all my bills,” Eli said, noting that his parents help support him financially while he completes his degree. “It’s not my dream job, but it’s flexible and doesn’t interfere with class.”

Although lifeguarding does not directly align with his career goals, he appreciates the manageable schedule. For Eli, the key is finding work that lightens the financial burden without overwhelming academic priorities.

Grace B., who is currently exploring potential majors, works part time as a nanny. While the job provides necessary income, the timing often creates stress. After finishing class, she has a narrow window to reach her client’s home before picking up the children from the bus stop.

“It’s stressful,” she said. “Sometimes I’ve asked professors if I could leave five or ten minutes early, and I’ve had points deducted.”

Grace explained that missing work is not an option, as it could cost her job. She advises other students to carefully choose class schedules that align with work commitments whenever possible.

“Planning your schedule around your job makes a big difference,” she said.

Robert, a communications and sociology major, faces a different balancing act. In addition to attending school part time, he owns and operates an HVAC business. Managing service calls, client needs and coursework requires set organized schedule.

“Having an organized schedule is necessary,” he said. “You have to dedicate time not just to attend class but to actually put in the work to get good grades.”

His advice, juggling financial responsibilities and academic demands can be challenging, but believes it is achievable with discipline and consistency.

Across interviews, one common theme emerged: balance. Students emphasized the importance of keeping work hours manageable, protecting study time and maintaining a structured schedule. For many first-year students, the transition into adulthood  working, attending classes and studying independently can feel overwhelming.

Fortunately, Anoka-Ramsey offers academic advising, tutoring services and student support resources designed to help students navigate these responsibilities. Utilizing those services can make the difference between burnout and success.

For today’s students, earning a degree often means earning a paycheck at the same time. The work may not end when class does but for many, the hustle is part of the journey.