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How I Manage My Study with a 9-5 Job

Updated: Feb 4

Juggling a full-time job with part-time study isn’t easy. Throw in social life, exercise and personal projects, and it can feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day. However when you’re genuinely passionate about what you’re learning, you find ways to make it work.


I’m currently pursuing a Graduate Diploma in Digital Product Design at RMIT. It's a fully online program that I’m on track to complete by the end of 2025. Even though it’s online, the workload is no joke, it’s been a challenge balancing it with my job but I’ve found a groove that works for me.


The Initial Struggles

When I first started the program, I didn’t realise it was recommended to take only one subject per term. So, in my first semester I enthusiastically enrolled in two subjects at once.


Big mistake.


The workload was intense. All my assignments had the same deadlines for both subjects. I found myself working late nights, sacrificing sleep and barely keeping up with everything. By the time the term ended, I knew never again... Now, I stick to one subject per term (four terms a year) which is much more manageable. It still requires commitment, but I no longer feel like I’m drowning in deadlines.


It was NOT fine.
It was NOT fine.

Interest & Discipline Keep Me Going

Even with a better balance, it’s still been a crazy ride. Back in December '24 I was on a plane back from holiday still working on my final assignment before landing. During the trip, I’d set aside time to catch up on coursework because I didn’t want to waste an entire teaching period. It wasn’t always easy but I reminded myself that I chose this path because I genuinely enjoy learning product design.


That’s what keeps me committed—I actually want to do this.


I’ve also learned that balance doesn’t mean giving up everything else in life. I still go to the gym, do pilates, catch up with friends and family and attend birthdays and outings. The key is discipline and effective planning.


My Weekly Schedule

To stay on top of things, I’ve structured my week around my commitments. Here’s what a typical week looks like:


Monday - Friday (Workdays)
  • 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM → Work (9-5 job)

  • 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM → Gym or Pilates (3-4x per week)

  • 8:30 PM - 10:30 PM (2x per week) → Study (lectures, assignments, coursework)

  • Other nights → Free time/social life


Saturday
  • Free day → Catch up with friends, go out, or just relax


Sunday (Study Day)
  • 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM → Study session (4-5 hours)

  • Afternoon → Rest, meal prep, chill before the workweek


By setting clear study days I'm ensure that I’m making steady progress without burning out.

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Lessons Learnt
  1. Time Management Is Everything

    • Having a structured plan helps me stay productive without feeling overwhelmed.

    • Breaking down assignments into small tasks makes them less intimidating.

  2. Flexibility Is Key

    • Some weeks are busier than others and that’s okay. If I miss a study session, I make up for it later.

  3. It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint

    • Studying part-time means slow but steady progress and that’s completely fine.

    • I no longer stress about completing everything ASAP, finishing by 2025 is still a win.

  4. Passion Drives Commitment

    • If I wasn’t excited about product design, I wouldn’t have lasted this long.

    • When you genuinely enjoy what you’re learning, it’s easier to stay motivated.


Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. It’s challenging, yes, but also deeply rewarding. I’ve developed stronger time management skills, built resilience and gained valuable design skills that will help me transition into a product design role.


For anyone considering studying while working full-time, it’s doable but you have to be strategic. Plan well, stay discipline and don’t forget to enjoy life in the process. 🚀

 
 
 

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