Can You Work While Attending Trade School? Tips for Balancing Both

Balancing work and school is no simple task, particularly if you’re training for a new profession. Many people are in the same position, considering trade school while holding down a job. Many students opt for this opportunity because it allows them to acquire hands-on experience without interrupting their income or everyday responsibilities.

The good thing about this opportunity is that you can balance them both—if you plan your time carefully. If you are supporting a family, saving money, or focused on achieving your goals, this guide offers practical advice for succeeding in trade school while managing work responsibilities.

Why Trade School Is a Great Choice for Working Students

Trade colleges such as Northwest Career College are conveniently suited to the lifestyle of a working student. Trade schools have more condensed, specialized classes than traditional colleges. Instead of attending school for four years, you can get your degree in a much shorter time, sometimes as little as 9 to 18 months, depending on your program!

Numerous programs also have flexible schedules, such as:

• Morning, afternoon, or evening classes
• Online and campus learning
• Hands-on practice tailored to real work contexts

Since trade school programs are focused on a career, you’re not wasting time taking classes that are irrelevant to you. Every course brings you closer to landing your dream job. Northwest Career College is also accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), licensed by the State of Nevada Commission on Post-Secondary Education, and approved by the Department of Education for Title IV funding — so you can even obtain financial aid to offset expenses!

Develop a Schedule That Suits You

It’s all about planning when you’re juggling school and work. Your schedule must accommodate your classes, studying, work schedule, and even downtime!

Here are a few tips on creating your schedule:

• Choose classes that suit your work schedule: Meet with an advisor to identify class schedules that align with your schedule.
• Use a planner or phone calendar: Put work shifts, classes, assignments, and other critical personal events into it.
• Schedule study time: Approach studying as a work appointment you cannot miss.
• Provide time for breaks: You can recharge even by taking 10-minute breaks throughout the day.

Remember, more realistic scheduling beats filling up each minute. Balance is where you want to be!

Take Care of Your Health

Balancing work and school can be demanding—prioritizing your health ensures you stay energized, focused, and ready to succeed.

Here’s how you take care of yourself:

• Get plenty of sleep: Attempt to get a minimum of 7 hours nightly. Both your body and brain require rest to function correctly.
• Eat healthy foods: Eating fast foods is convenient, but nutritious foods ensure more energy!
• Stay active: Even a 10-minute walk keeps your body strong.
• Manage your stress: Breathe slowly, listen to a favorite song, or watch something enjoyable when anxious.

By caring for yourself, you’ll have more energy and concentration to perform your best at school and work.

Remember Your Goals and Stay Motivated

Some days will be tough. You may be exhausted, stressed, or overwhelmed. When that occurs, remember why you first began.

You may want a more fulfilling career to support your family or demonstrate to yourself that you can achieve more.

Please write down your goals and glance at them regularly. Don’t fail to celebrate your small achievements—passing a challenging test, completing a work shift after a difficult day, etc. Every effort you make brings you closer to graduating and a better tomorrow.

And remember, you’re not alone. Many students at Northwest Career College work while studying. If they can do it, so can you!

Enroll now at Northwest Career College!

Are you ready to begin a new career without sacrificing your paycheck? Northwest Career College can provide the lifestyle you need. Depending on your program of study, you can complete it in 9 to 18 months. We offer financial aid to qualified applicants and are committed to assisting veterans, active military personnel, and military families.
Northwest Career College provides hands-on training, convenient schedules, and career-focused education. Our teachers know what it takes to ensure you can juggle school, employment, and life — because we are committed to your success. Enroll today at Northwest Career College!