Life as a working student is a blend of challenges and opportunities, each day teaching me something new about resilience and time management. Here’s a personal look into my daily routine—how I navigate school, work, and everything in between.
6:00 AM – Early Morning Hustle
The day starts with my alarm dragging me out of bed. After a quick shower, I grab breakfast—usually coffee and something light, like toast or cereal. Mornings are my quiet time to center myself, plan my tasks for the day, and make sure I’ve packed everything: laptop, notebooks, and, of course, a fully charged phone.
7:00 AM – The Grab Commute to Campus
I book a Grab ride to campus—a small luxury that saves me the stress of navigating public transportation. The ride is my moment of calm before the day kicks into high gear. I usually use the time to review notes for upcoming classes, reply to emails, or just enjoy some music to set a positive tone. The comfortable ride makes all the difference, especially during hectic mornings.
8:00 AM – Classes Begin
Once I arrive, I’m fully in student mode. My BSIS classes are a mix of theory and hands-on activities, from understanding management systems to coding practicals. Engaging in class discussions keeps me focused, and I love connecting the dots between what I learn and how it applies to my work. Some days are packed with group work, while others are quieter, with more time for personal learning.
12:00 PM – Lunch Break
Lunch is a much-needed break to recharge. Sometimes I grab a quick bite on campus, but when I feel like treating myself, I use GrabFood to order something a bit fancier. I might spend this time catching up with friends, laughing over random topics, or just scrolling through social media to relax.
1:00 PM – Study Sprints
Afternoons are for serious study. Whether it’s finishing a group project or diving into an assignment, I dedicate this time to making progress. If I’m stuck on a tricky concept, my classmates and I brainstorm solutions together. The collaboration helps me stay motivated and get more done in less time.
5:50 PM – Grab Ride Home
As the day winds down, I book another Grab ride to head home. This part of the day is all about reflection—thinking about what went well, what could’ve been better, and what’s next on my to-do list. The smooth ride through the city’s traffic is a welcome transition from school to home.
7:00 PM – Dinner and Family Time
Evenings start with dinner at home. Sharing a meal with my family is my way of staying grounded. It’s the perfect opportunity to catch up with everyone and enjoy some laughs after a long day.
8:00 PM – Work Mode Activated
After dinner, I shift gears into work mode. As a Project Manager, my evenings are filled with tasks like reviewing project updates, coordinating with my team, and ensuring deadlines are met. The skills I’ve learned at school often come in handy here, making me feel more prepared for my role.
10:00 PM – Prepping for Tomorrow
Before bed, I take a few minutes to organize my tasks for the next day. I review my planner, respond to any last-minute emails, and make sure my bag is packed for another busy day. This little ritual keeps me on top of things and reduces morning stress.
11:00 PM – Rest and Recharge
By the end of the day, I’m ready to crash. Sleep is non-negotiable for me—it’s the fuel that powers everything I do. As I drift off, I feel a mix of pride and anticipation for the challenges and opportunities tomorrow will bring.
Reflections on the Journey
Balancing school and work with the convenience of Grab has been a game-changer for me. It’s not just about saving time—it’s about making the most of my day while staying energized and focused. Every ride, every task, and every lesson is part of the bigger picture: building the future I want.
The journey of a working student is demanding, but it’s also deeply rewarding. Each day is a step closer to my goals, and that’s what keeps me going.
by Paulo Mapoy