The Effect of Work Stress and Time Management on Career Adaptability among Working Students

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to examine the effect of work stress and time management on the career adaptability of working students.

Method: This study employed a quantitative approach with a causal associative design. The sample consisted of 100 working students selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using Likert-scale questionnaires and analyzed using multiple linear regression analysis with the assistance of SPSS version 26. Instrument validity, reliability, and classical assumption tests were conducted prior to hypothesis testing.

Results: The findings revealed that work stress had a negative and significant effect on career adaptability (β = -0.421; p < 0.05), indicating that increased work stress reduced students’ career adaptability. Conversely, time management had a positive and significant effect on career adaptability (β = 0.587; p < 0.05), suggesting that effective time management enhanced students’ ability to adapt to career challenges. Simultaneously, work stress and time management significantly influenced career adaptability (F = 36.824; p < 0.05). The coefficient of determination (R² = 0.532) showed that both variables explained 53.2% of the variance in career adaptability.

Conclusion: Work stress and time management are important factors influencing the career adaptability of working students. Reducing work stress and improving time management skills can enhance students’ readiness to face career transitions and future workplace challenges.