As an international student, it’s easy to get caught up in your academic commitments, such as attending courses, completing lectures and writing exams. While these are undoubtedly important parts of your student experience, there’s also enrichment to be found outside the classroom!
Just because you’re a student doesn’t mean you can’t also be a part of the Australian workforce. In fact, international students in Australia are currently allowed to work an unlimited number of hours (though restricted working hours are set to return in July 2023). By working part-time while you study, you’ll not only contribute to the Australian economy but you’ll also reap a host of rewards yourself.
Read more: Opinion: Unlimited Working Hours for International Students: A Blessing or a Curse?
Wondering what these rewards could be? We’ve got you covered. Here, we list the top 7 benefits of working while you study – and why you might want to consider doing it yourself.
Earning an income
For many international students, earning an income while they study is a necessity. You may need the money to save for tuition and study expenses, and to pay for living expenses such as rent, groceries and bills.
But earning your own money can also lead to a more enriching study experience. Extra funds can offer you the freedom and power to explore areas of life that you may not have been able to otherwise. For example, travelling around Australia is a dream for plenty of international students. However, without an income, it can be tricky to organise travel that fits within your budget. By bringing in some extra cash, you open up a whole new world for yourself.
Getting a head start in your industry
In Australia, you may be able to find work in the industry that you’re studying to be a part of. This is a great way to get ahead in your career while you’re still at university. In some cases, these employment opportunities are built right into your program of study.
For example, at Swinburne University of Technology, all bachelor degrees come with guaranteed real industry experience in the form of placements, internships or industry-linked projects. It’s part of Swinburne’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program and means you’ll get exposure to the Australian workforce while building your professional network and developing your employability skills – all before you graduate!
Preparing yourself for the workforce
Joining the workforce straight out of university can be daunting, especially if it’s a world you have yet to explore. When you begin your career, you’ll likely be working more autonomously than you’re used to at university.
For instance, at university, you have clear due dates and learning outcomes that are set for you by your professors and other staff. In your professional life, you may need to set your own goals and define the steps you’ll need to reach them. This can be a tricky adjustment for many young professionals.
By working part-time while you’re studying, you’ll ease yourself into what might be expected from you in the working world. That way, you’ll get far less of a shock when you finish your studies.
Understanding Australian workplace culture
If you plan to work in Australia after completing your studies, it’s essential to know what to expect in an Australian workplace. You’ll likely encounter new workplace slang, communication styles, and different types of employment (some of which have different leave entitlements).
By working while you study, you’ll get your first taste of Australian workplace culture, which can ease your transition into the working world post-graduation.
Gaining and refining skills
Joining the workforce will help you gain and develop a huge range of skills. Different jobs will help you grow in different areas.
For example, a position in sales is going to develop your communication skills and customer service skills as you’ll regularly be speaking with clients. On the other hand, a job in the hospitality industry will likely give you skills in problem-solving, teamwork and time management.
While different jobs offer different skills, it’s important to remember that many of these skills are transferable. That means you can apply them across various sectors and roles.
Meeting new people
Working while you study is a great way to expand your social network and make new friends. Depending on the environment in which you work, you’re likely to meet new people from all walks of life. By interacting with people of different backgrounds and personalities, you’ll be better able to collaborate with various personality types.
Plus, if you find work in your chosen industry, it’s a great chance to learn from your new coworkers. Chat with them about the pathways they took to get where they are and ask if they have any tips for someone who’s getting started in the sector.
Take some time away from studying
Although your studies are a crucial part of your life in Australia, it’s really important to make time for other aspects of life. Taking some time away to put yourself in a new environment, like a workplace, is a great way to give yourself some mental distance from your study.
If you’re someone who spends a lot of time studying inside, you might be interested in looking for work in an area that will give you some time outside, such as gardening, dog walking or farm work.
With the help of Swinburne University of Technology’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program, you can gain real industry experience, learn from experts in your field (and maybe even earn some money!) all while you study. Learn more about Swinburne’s WIL program here.
