If you’re thinking about starting an online graduate program—or have already started one—here are some best practices to help you balance the program and your job and get the best of both worlds. 

1. Communicate with your support system 

Keeping your family, friends, and colleagues in the loop is integral to succeeding in any online program or professional environment, especially if you intend to take on both at the same time. That means making your significant other and others in your household aware of your class schedules, your assignment or test due dates, and when you need to study. Make your supervisor aware of a project deadline for school and ask if you can lighten your workload around that time. If you find yourself overwhelmed at any point, remember that you have people in your life who are happy to do what they can. Whether you need help buying groceries, doing laundry, or picking up the kids, chances are somebody in your circle is willing to pitch in. Asking for help is not always easy, but you will more than likely be glad you did. 

1. Create a system for staying organized 

Now is a better time than ever to establish a routine that fosters success. Try taking notes on your phone or computer to keep track of school assignments and work projects; if you find that typing reminders does not help, try writing them down on paper. Get a planner, keep it up-to-date, and check it regularly to make sure you are not letting anything important slide. Impending deadlines should be your priority, but there is nothing wrong with planning ahead. Consider waking up early to get in some studying before work or go over school assignments during your lunch break. You might be surprised at how quickly you can accomplish your goals by doing a little work every day. 

1. Work your classwork into your professional life and vice versa 

One of many benefits of working a full-time job while attending an online graduate program at the same time is you have a chance to apply the knowledge and skills you gain in your courses to your job and vice versa. For example, when you learn about the latest trends and best practices in your field, put them to practice in the workplace. If you use a software program, app, or digital tool at work, look at how it might help you in your class or with a particular project. Even if your job is not within your chosen field of study, you may still find yourself picking up skills that are easily transferred between settings. Gathering information from a wide range of sources and fact-checking it, prioritizing tasks by deadlines, and collaborating with a group of your peers to achieve a common goal – these are all ways you can practice what you learn at school in the workplace and vice versa. 

1. Discuss your goals with professors and supervisors 

What do you plan to do with your new degree or certificate when you graduate? Whether you use it to advance the career you already have or change paths entirely, consider going to your college advisors and mentors for advice on what to do next. If you are interested in exploring new job prospects, your professors can help you make connections by either recommending people for you to contact or directly introducing you. Similarly, talking to your supervisors can give you a better idea of how a graduate program will serve you in the future; they might also have tips on balancing work and school. Another great resource is the UI Alumni Network, which provides an alumni directory, news updates, and other useful information. 

1. Reflect on your progress