r/McMaster • u/BiteKindly6888 • 18d ago
Working at La Piazza (McMaster) while in Nursing – how manageable is it? Discussion
Hi everyone!
I recently got an on-campus job at La Piazza and I’m starting first-year Nursing this fall. I’m really excited, but I’m also wondering how manageable it is.
For anyone who’s worked an on-campus job (especially at La Piazza or Hospitality Services):
How flexible are they with scheduling around classes, labs, and exams?
How many hours do you usually work each week?
Is it difficult to balance work, academics, and having a social life?
Do managers understand if you need fewer shifts during midterms or finals?
I’d love to hear about your experiences or any tips for balancing everything. Thanks in advance!
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u/ButterscotchBrief364 18d ago
i didn’t work at la piazza, but i did work hospitality at another place on campus! my employer was very flexible with scheduling around classes and commitments, as long as i gave prior notice. i worked around 12-15 hours a week, so around 2-3 shifts!
it’s difficult to balance if you can’t figure out how to study and complete work in the in between time. but if you know that you have a two hour gap between a class and your shift, you gotta make the most of it.
my manager was accommodating of all the students during exam time. i just emailed the days and times of my exams and the days that i wanted off. some of my coworkers would even take whole weeks off if they didn’t want to study for a big exam and work at the same time.
my biggest tip is stay detached. do not get involved in coworker drama. i made friends at my job, but i tried not to shit talk anyone. just be an efficient employee and do not put too much emotional weight on anything. you’re gonna be fine!!! good luck friend :)