Students juggle academics, employment

As if pursuing a higher education isn't challenging enough, some students must juggle multiple jobs in addition to excelling in college academics.

Jessica Elliott, Honors College graduate and psychology graduate student, has worked two jobs and maintained an impressive transcript for two years.

"I feel grateful and empowered," Elliott said. "I like being able to say that I worked two jobs and maintained a 4.0 GPA in the Honors College."

Elliott is a full-time employee of Lilly Eye Care and a part-time employee at Applebee's Restaurant.

 "I have awesome employers, professors and friends who have helped me in any way that they could," Elliott said.  "This entire experience has taught me that with enough effort and the help of those around me, I can do anything.  There have been a lot of sleepless nights, but I made it!"

Kaycy Webb, culinary student at Mountwest Community and Technical College, has worked three jobs at one time and maintained a B average.

"That money flow was great," Webb said.  "I always had enough to cover my bills and to spend and still made enough time to do well in my classes."

Webb is currently working one job at Charlotte Russe in the Huntington Mall as a sales associate, but isn't satisfied with just one.

"Don't get me wrong," Webb said.  "I like my job, it's just that I miss working more than one job.  I've put several applications in at other places and am just waiting to get that call for my second job."

Kaycy said there have been tough times, but she enjoyed being busy.

"It's just about finding the balance," Webb said.  "I made mad money, had enough time to still focus on my studies and was still able to find time to enjoy life!"

Kayla Marcum can be contacted at marcum139@marshall.edu.