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Taking classes between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. may suit most students, but this traditional schedule is inconvenient for many others. For instance, you may need to work at the same time as studying to be able to afford your education. However, it’s more difficult to find a job if you’re taking classes during the day. A solution may be to take night classes — but you should consider both the pros and cons before you decide this is the right route for you.

Pro: More Flexibility
With night classes, it’s possible to work full time and still fit in your studies. Plus, unlike with a traditional schedule, classes tend to last around 2.5 hours and take place twice a week. This means you’ll have three weekdays free to pick up evening shifts.

Alternatively, you could use the opportunity to find a part-time job and also work an internship or fit your other responsibilities and activities in your schedule — perhaps activities that will improve your chances of employment once you graduate.

Con: Longer Days
Fitting night classes around a job or internship means your days will be much longer. This can be stressful, or it may mean you’re unable to find as much time for fun.

Pro: Many Students Focus Better at Night
Whereas some people can wake up at dawn feeling alert and focused, others naturally have higher energy levels later in the day. If you know that you fall into the second category, you may do better in college if you take night classes. Depending on your other commitments, you may even be able to wake up at a time that’s comfortable for you and go to bed later.

Con: Difficulty Focusing
Of course, if you’re not the kind of person who’s alert later in the day, you’ll likely find night classes more difficult than sticking to a traditional schedule. If you’re already tired from a long day of work, you may struggle to concentrate or lack motivation, making you more prone to distractions.

Pro: Arrive to Class Prepared
As a college student, it’s up to you to do most of your studies on your own time. Many students prefer preparing for classes a few hours before, as everything is fresh in their minds. Plus, taking night classes may allow you to spend the day on independent study, meaning you’ll have fewer nights spent frantically trying to study when you’re tired and unable to concentrate.

Con: Less Time to Sleep
If you’re unable to wake up late (if your job starts early, for instance), you may end up with less time to sleep. In addition, if your job takes up a great deal of your time, you may need to use the time after your night classes to study, which will cut down on your sleep even more.

Pro: Meet a Different Group of People
The kinds of people who take night classes tend to differ from traditional college students. Many will be using classes to advance in their careers or change profession. It can be interesting to meet such a diverse range of students — not to mention it gives you the chance to grow your network.

Con: It’s More Difficult to Socialize
The people you meet at night classes are also less likely to have free time to socialize. This means it can be more difficult to make friends. Plus, you may be unable to attend college activities that take place in the evenings because they clash with your classes.

Students looking for housing in London, Ontario — regardless of whether they’re taking daytime or night classes — can find off-campus apartments that meet their needs and match their lifestyle at Foundry First. Here, you’ll have the chance to meet a wide range of students from all kinds of backgrounds and plenty of opportunities to socialize. Schedule a tour to check out our suites and onsite amenities.