Work Stress of Part-time Work on International Students : A Case Study of McDonald’s

Abstract

Studying abroad poses a double challenge for international students: balancing demanding schoolwork with the necessary adaptation to a new culture, society, and language. This unique situation is compounded by the need for part time work, often found in the flexible and potentially insecure service sector, which is essential to the finance their studies and to gain local experience. Work stress broadly defined as an overwhelming feeling that threatens the well being arises when the demands of their job and academic life exceed resources available to them. This thesis specifically focuses on the experiences and work stress of part time international students working at McDonald's Finland. This research used a qualitative approach and an inductive method, gathering data through interviews with five individuals of varying nationalities and job roles at McDonald's. A thematic analysis was then performed on the interview data to gain a deeper understanding of the research problem. Part time work provides international students financial independence, boosts skills, and social integration. However, these benefits are offset by severe academic strain, leading to fatigue, lower grades, and significant risks to health and well being, including stress and burnout from juggling demands. The findings indicate that international students primarily dedicate weekdays to academic commitments, reserving weekends for part time employment. This intense scheduling results in significant stress and burnout, manifesting physically and psychologically. Students mitigate these effects through self management strategies, prioritizing adequate sleep, scheduled breaks for hobbies, and maintaining a positive mindset. Crucially, sustaining this demanding dual role necessitates the sacrifice of personal and social time. The research underscores the need for enhanced institutional and employer support to better assist working students in balancing these challenges.