Imagine landing your dream job as a FullStack developer at a thriving startup before even stepping foot into a university classroom. That was me two years ago when I joined Jit Security. The dilemma then arose: Should I pursue my ambition to get a formal Computer Science education or stick with my job, which is essentially what most Computer Science students aspire to have after graduation?
Against popular advice, I took the plunge — juggling a full-time job and pursuing a full-time Computer Science degree at the Technion, Israel’s leading technical university. It was one heck of a ride, and while I’ve made the decision to become a full-time student after the first semester, I want to share my experience in hopes that it may inspire or caution others who are thinking of a similar path.
The Decision-Making Process
“Why leave a job to study, only to look for a job after?” That’s a question that haunted me when I considered enrolling at the Technion. It’s a valid point; I was living the dream of many aspiring tech professionals. Yet, my love for learning and my desire to deepen my foundational understanding of Computer Science couldn’t be silenced.
Most people advised against combining the two full-time commitments. They said it was “impossible,” but I wanted to challenge that notion, if only to prove it to myself. So I decided to undertake the Herculean task of balancing both.
The Road Not Taken: The Open University Option
Before embarking on this rigorous journey, I considered another popular route many people in my position take: enrolling at the Open University. Designed specifically for those who wish to balance work and study, the Open University offers flexible course schedules and online options. It’s an attractive alternative that allows many to skill up while holding down a job.
I weighed this option seriously but ultimately chose the traditional full-time route at the Technion for the following reasons:
Accelerated Learning: The full-time program is intense and immersive, allowing for a faster and more comprehensive grasp of Computer Science.
Depth of Knowledge: The Technion’s reputation for rigorous academic training convinced me that a full-time commitment would offer a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Networking: Being physically present on campus provides better networking opportunities, which are invaluable for future career growth.
By choosing the Technion over the Open University, I committed to a more traditional, yet demanding, educational path. It’s a choice I felt better suited my learning style and career aspirations, despite the considerable time commitment.
Changing Gears: The Daily Routine
Adapting to a dual life of full-time work and study was like stepping onto a treadmill that never stops. The pace was relentless, and there was no room for slacking. I had to be incredibly disciplined to meet the demands of both worlds. Here’s what a typical day looked like for me:
- 5 am — 9 am: Study for university courses
- 9 am — 5 pm: Full-time work at Jit Security
- 5 pm — Late Evening: More studying, assignments, and project work
Weekends were no longer for leisure; they were for catching up or getting ahead with my studies. The overlap between my job and my coursework was minimal, which meant I couldn’t ‘double-dip.’ Each demanded its own time and focus.
The Challenges
Juggling both roles was like keeping a dozen plates spinning simultaneously. Here are some of the challenges I faced:
Time Management: Prioritizing tasks became a skill I had to master rapidly.
Burnout: The long hours took a toll on both my physical and mental health.
Social Sacrifice: Personal relationships and social engagements took a backseat.
Quality of Work and Learning: While I managed to keep up, I felt like I wasn’t giving either my studies or my job the full attention they deserved.
The Verdict: Is it Possible?
After a semester of this dual life, my conclusion is: Yes, it’s technically possible to work full-time while being a full-time student. However, “possible” doesn’t necessarily mean “sustainable” or “advisable.”
I’ve decided to leave my job at Jit Security to focus on my studies. While the job was rewarding, I felt my education was equally important and deserved my undivided attention. Now, I can delve deeper into my coursework and truly master the subjects I’m passionate about.
Lessons Learned and Recommendation
If you’re considering a similar path, here are some quick tips:
Be Realistic: Assess your stamina and resilience honestly.
Plan Meticulously: Every hour counts; plan your days down to the last minute.
Seek Support: Whether it’s from family, friends, or mentors, emotional support can be a game-changer.
Prioritize Ruthlessly: Identify What’s Most Important and Let Go of the Rest
Re-evaluate Constantly: Keep track of your physical and mental health. If it’s taking a toll, don’t hesitate to change course.
Consider the Open University: If you’re keen to combine work and study but are wary of the toll it might take, the Open University offers a more flexible schedule and could be a viable alternative.
Conclusion: A Semester of Lessons
My one-semester experiment was a grueling yet enlightening experience that pushed me to my limits. I learned about the importance of priorities, the value of discipline, and the harsh realities of what it means to overcommit. Choosing the Technion over the Open University was a conscious choice that aligned with my learning style and career aspirations, but the Open University remains a viable option for those who wish to balance work and study. While I wouldn’t recommend this path to everyone, it taught me valuable life skills and helped me better understand my own priorities. The decision to focus on my studies doesn’t mean I’ve closed the door on my professional life; rather, it’s a conscious choice to be fully present in my educational journey, setting the stage for an even more fulfilling career in the future.