Is it possible to work part-time and still have enough time for studies in Japan?

[KoiSamurai]

Hi everyone,
I'm planning to study in Japan and I'm considering getting a part-time job. But I'm worried about how it might affect my studies, especially since the workload can be quite heavy.

Is it realistically possible to work part-time (around 20 hours per week) and still have enough time to focus on my classes and assignments? How do you manage your time between work, school, and personal life while studying in Japan?

 

[mdchachi]

I've never studied in Japan but that seems like it should be possible.

 

[nice gaijin]

When I was in college there I picked up a part time job teaching English at GABA, and while it was manageable I did have some rough days where I was definitely sleep deprived, and even got yelled at for falling asleep in one class. I think if it's something simple and you have a loose schedule with short shifts it shouldn't interfere with your studies too much (gaba was nice because I could set my own schedule, but I did have to wear a suit), just know your limits and don't burn yourself out. A part time job like at a convenience store or something could be a fun way to practice Japanese in your spare time

Being on a student visa, I needed to go to the immigration office once or twice to get a special stamp on my visa to allow me to work part time (I think 14 hours/week was the max allowed). It was nearly 20 years ago now, but I don't have reason to think the rules have changed that much.

 

[Ukigumo]

You haven't state what subject you'll be studying, but it depends upon the efficiency of your study skills and the type of job you're undertaking. Most of the medical students I taught had part-time jobs during the less intensive parts of their course but they're medical student and they've got there because they're 'study/exam machines'. If you've had academic success in the past, that's probably a good indicator that you'll be fine with a job and studying. During the revision and exam periods you must stop working, though since studying is your priority; it's you real, main job and you don't want to put your success at any risk. Find yourself a job as, perhaps, a night watchman (in a haunted abandoned hospital or insane asylum ) so you can study between your rounds.