Can university students effectively manage a balance between their academic studies and employment responsibilities?

Most students nowadays find difficulties to afford for their studies. This leads some students to look for opportunities to finance themselves. The issue of whether university students should have a part-time job or not is a controversial debate which leads to a lot of concerns. While some people think that students should not have a part-time job besides their studies, others think the opposite. However, university students should have a part-time job in order not only to gain valuable experience and personal development but also to meet their financial needs.

The first reason why university students should have part-time jobs is the opportunities these jobs provide to gain practical experience and personal growth. When students work part-time jobs, they are exposed to real-life situations where they encounter various challenges. Over time, they develop problem-solving skills and the ability to handle difficulties. Moreover, they enhance their resume and increase their competitiveness in the job market upon graduation. Furthermore, having part-time along with studies helps students develop essential life skills, including time management, self-discipline, and a strong work ethic. Ultimately, part-time jobs contribute to personal growth and pave the way for success in their future endeavors.

Another compelling argument in favor of university students having part-time jobs is the fact that these jobs lead to financial stability. University has become undertakings, with tuition, books, and daily living expenses. The majority of students face difficulties to afford for these needs which affects their mental health, leading them to stress and anxiety. By having a part-time job, students secure their financial stability which allows them to focus more on their studies rather than being concerned about financial burdens. Therefore, being financially stable is crucial for students to have better circumstances to be more focused and give their best in their studies.

Opponents argue that university students should avoid part-time jobs. They think that having such jobs distracts them from their studies and potentially leads them to poor academic achievements. They also believe that students might find it difficult to balance between work and attendance, leading them to lower performances. However, this claim does not have profound evidence. In fact, with effective time management and self-discipline, students can easily balance between studies and employment. With proper planning, students succeed in both their jobs and their educational careers. Moreover, recent studies have shown that most students with part-time jobs tend to outperform other unemployed students. Furthermore, a large number of students who get poor grades or even drop out of university are students who struggle with financial problems. Consequently, having a part-time job doesn’t only provide students with better circumstances and grades but also decreases the number of students who leave university because of financial issues.

To conclude, the argument whether university students should have part-time jobs has raised a crucial debate. With the right balance and time management, students can thrive in both jobs and studies. Ultimately, part-time employment is a valuable part of a university student’s journey, offering them not only financial stability but also the practical skills and life experiences that will prepare them for future success missions.

Mahfoud  LAKOUIS

S3 Department of English Studies

Chouaib Doukkali University of El Jadida

Plastic is a dangerous environmental threat. There are many chemicals and toxic substances involved in the production of plastic. It has accumulated in oceans and land fields for a long time, causing harm to the ecosystem. Some marine life is exposed to death because they may mistake plastic for food. Plastic is leaving everlasting effects on our ecosystem due to improper disposal.

Plastic should be replaced because it is not biodegradable. Plastic can not decompose by natural processes, such as bacteria. It accumulates in landfills and oceans, taking hundreds of years to fully decompose. A bottle can take up to 450 years to fully break down. It is a very long period that leaves destructive effects on the environment. Now, 300 million tons of plastic are produced every year. The planet can not bear all of this human waste because only 10- 13% are recyclable; 87% us left without recycling. Moreover, plastic does not only impact the environment but also marine life. Unbreakable plastic turns to Micro-plastic: they are small pieces less than five millimetres. This kind of plastic negatively impacts marine life. According to WWF, World Wildlife Fund, some marine species can digest Micro-plastic instead of food. This can cause physical harm and blockages in their digestive system. Additionally, Micro-plastic can absorb and transport chemical pollutants which can accumulate in the bodies of animals, causing choking and death. Also, plastic affects human health; it releases harmful chemical substances that lead to health issues. Plastic, especially Micro-plastic, can be transmitted to humans through food and fish.

There are certain people who claim that plastic is an item that is being used every day in daily life. It is irreplaceable because of its useful facilities. Plastic is not like other traditional materials, such as metal or glass; it is much lighter than them. Plastic is being used in vehicle construction because it makes them faster. As it helps them to get more miles without stopping each time at the gaze station. Also, plastic is appropriate for its strength and durability. Because plastic is resistant to corrosion, it does not have to be replaced as often as other materials, whether it is used in a piece of machinery or underground sewage piping. However, we can not keep using plastic for its long strength and durability. Instead, we can use paper. They can easily decompose within a week or two, and they are intimate to nature. Also, plastics producers do not hold themselves responsible for collecting and recycling plastics after the post-production stage. They throw the responsibility out of their shoulders without taking into consideration the consequences of their careless behaviors.

Plastic is a controversial issue. Each group of people tries to support their side either by stressing on the dark side of plastic or by showing its facilities. Proponents of stopping using plastic believe that it deteriorates the environment and aggravates the situation more. Opponents who claim in favor of keeping plastic believe that it saves time and expense by reducing the need for maintenance and replacement.

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By Elmostafa WAOUA

S3 Department of English Studies

Chouaib Doukkali University of El Jadida

Online shopping is a digital commerce mode, which is becoming very common worldwide. It is the activity or action of buying products or services over the internet. Through the internet, people have become able to buy in retail or in wholesale, products using their laptops, or phones, accessing a vast range of products, and services.

Online shopping provides several benefits. To begin with, people who frequently shop over the internet, reveal that having such a shopping mode strongly saves their time. In other words, with only a few clicks, you are able to order goods or services, then the order you had placed would reach your doorstep after a certain time. Besides, it is very resilient to shop online. Internet users can shop through the internet at any time and anywhere, unlike traditional shopping. Online stores are always open and available, you can effectuate your shopping process at any time that suits you, early in the morning, or late at night, it does not matter at all. Additionally, e-shopping is energy-saving, which means without even initiating a small move outside your home, you can get the goods you are looking for.

The opponents of e-shopping state that it is terrible to buy stuff through online sites. First, it is factual that there are some online shopping websites that are simply fake, and they pretend to sell very cheap items, while they are scamming users’ data heartlessly. Moreover, the products that are exhibited online, and are represented through images, may not have the same quality as it is shown on the product’s image, so the buyer can easily be deceived. Although there are some shopping platforms that fool people, we can use other online markets that have good reputation, and are well-known such as Amazon, AliExpress …

It has become much easier to purchase goods and services from your comfort zone. You no longer need to hit the road towards a traditional market, you can buy things smartly through the internet, saving time and energy.

Over time, women’s roles in society have changed. In the past, women were mainly expected to stay at home, and their value was often judged based on traditional views. The dawn of the 20th century witnessed the first waves of feminism challenging these expectations, advocating for the right to work outside the home. For instance, in the United States, the percentage of women in the workforce increased from 21.8% in 1900 to 59.2% in 1998, showcasing a substantial shift in societal expectations (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). As a result, more women started entering the workforce, though they faced obstacles like stereotypes and bias. Understanding this historical background is crucial for making sense of today’s discussion on whether women should focus on careers or adhere to traditional roles.

Proponents argue that women’s participation in the workforce significantly contributes to the economy. By exploiting the talents and skills of the entire population, societies can achieve higher levels of productivity and economic growth. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, advancing gender equality in the workforce could add $12 trillion to global GDP by 2025. Moreover, Advocates for women’s work stress the importance of gender equality. Granting women the right to pursue careers outside the home is seen as a crucial step toward achieving equal opportunities and empowering women to make independent choices about their lives. Countries that actively promote gender equality in the workforce tend to have higher levels of happiness and well-being. For example, Iceland, a country known for its gender-inclusive policies, consistently ranks high in global happiness indices. The World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report also indicates a positive correlation between gender equality and overall societal development. Additionally, a diverse workforce, inclusive of women, fosters innovation and creativity. Women bring unique perspectives, problem-solving approaches, and skills to the table, enriching the overall work environment. The tech industry serves as a compelling example of the positive impact of diverse perspectives. A study by the Peterson Institute for International Economics found that companies with more women in leadership positions are 15% more likely to outperform their industry median in profitability. This statistic underscores the tangible benefits of gender diversity in fostering innovation and business success.

Contradictorily, opponents may argue that women’s entry into the workforce can lead to increased competition for jobs, potentially resulting in a lack of job opportunities. Stating that prioritizing men in certain industries could maintain a more stable job market. Research from the International Labour Organization suggests that gender-inclusive economies are more likely to experience higher employment rates and economic resilience. A study conducted by the World Economic Forum found that closing the gender gap in the labor market could result in a 26% increase in global GDP by 2025. This counters the notion that women’s participation negatively impacts job opportunities. Also, traditional roles provide a sense of stability and order, and any deviation from these roles could lead to societal disruption. Gender roles, when adhered to, contribute to a more harmonious and predictable social structure.In certain societies where traditional gender roles are strongly emphasized, there might be a perception of stability due to a long-standing cultural adherence to specific norms. For instance, in some conservative communities, the preservation of traditional gender roles is associated with social cohesion and continuity. In addition, opponents could counter the argument about diversity by suggesting that too much emphasis on diversity might lead to a dilution of core values and standards within certain professions. Maintaining a more homogeneous workforce is necessary for maintaining a cohesive and efficient work environment. However, research shows that having a diverse workforce benefits everyone, and sticking strictly to traditional roles may limit individual freedom. Concerns about diluting values overlook the positive impact of different perspectives.  While some argue against women working, it’s essential to address their concerns. They worry about more competition for jobs, stability in traditional roles, and potential changes in values. In refuting these concerns, it’s clear that allowing women to work not only promotes equality but also brings positive changes for the entire society. It’s about embracing diversity and providing equal chances for everyone to contribute to a better future.

As we talk about whether women should work or stick to traditional roles, we’ve looked at how things used to be, what people who support women working say, and what those who disagree think. We’ve seen how women’s roles have changed over time, from just being at home to doing important work. This shows why it’s good to move forward and treat everyone equally. Even though some people have worries about this change, the proof shows that when women work, it’s good for the economy, society, and new ideas. As we think about this, let’s not only respect everyone’s choices but also understand that including women in the workforce brings benefits for everyone. When women get the chance to have careers outside of home, it’s not just fair; it helps everyone move forward together. By welcoming different backgrounds and giving equal chances to all, we create a community where everyone’s skills are valued, making the world more exciting and balanced. Let’s picture a future where women’s talents shine, making the world more vibrant, creative, and peaceful.

by Nezha HARIRI

S3 Department of English Studies

Chouaib Doukkali University of El Jadida

Allowing students to begin their day later can have a positive impact on their overall well-being and performance. Research has shown that students have a naturally altered sleep rhythm, making it difficult for them to fall asleep early and wake up early in the morning. By starting school later, they can get enough recommended sleep, which is essential for their physical and mental health in order to reduce stress and anxiety.. Additionally, adequate sleep is important for cognitive function such as attention and memory. Students can process information more effectively, leading to better retention of academic content. Moreover, students who are well rested are more likely to attend class regularly and be punctual. This promotes consistent learning and helps students better keep up with the curriculum, improving more conducively their academic performance.

Enabling students to start their day later can also help them attain long term success. First, students become well rested, attentive and more focused during classes. This lays a solid foundation for future learning, opening doors to higher education and opportunities of career. Second, students getting their dose of sleep are more engaged and motivated in their learning .They are more likely to pursue higher education and lifelong learning because of the joy and enthusiasm they create naturally by being well rested. Moreover, in the modern workplace, flexibility is highly valued. By experiencing flexible schedules in their academic years, students are better prepared for the demands of the working world, making them valuable candidates to future employers.

However, some argue awkwardly in favor of students starting their day early. They contend that an early start aligns with the working world, helping students to develop discipline and time management. Another point raised is the notion of increased productivity. They argue that starting the day early allows students to cover more materials during the school hours. Nevertheless, these points have not the necessary merit to be accepted. In fact, adaptability and discipline are not exclusive to early schedules. Being disciplined and learning to manage time effectively can be taught in different contexts. Additionally, we have to emphasize the importance of quality over quantity in school. A well-rested mind  is more receptive to learning, and students who have had adequate sleep are likely to retain relevant information better, increasing their productivity.

In conclusion, the debate over school start times highlights the need for a progressive approach in education. The evidence of adopting flexible starts, allowing students to begin their day later, is compelling. Prioritizing student’s well-being through sufficient sleep not only reduces stress and enhances cognitive functions but also significantly improves academic performances. Moreover, a later start time sets a foundation for long term success by fostering enthusiasm for learning and preparing students for a future where adaptability is key. While arguments in favor of early starts center around discipline and productivity, these notions are outweighed by the benefit of a well-rested mind, which is more receptive to quality learning. By embracing flexible schedules, we ensure the holistic development of students, nurturing their academic excellence and preparing them for the modern world challenges.

by Ahmed ZAKI

S3 Department of English Studies

Chouaib Doukkali University of El Jadida

The Web, cyberspace, and Internet are defined as an out-sized system of connected devices around the world that permit people to share information and communicate with one another. They are run and governed by various companies, businesses, governments, and academic institutions for their purposes (Cambridge Dictionary). The essential process of the Internet carries a lot of data about almost every subject and has very quickly become an important part of everyone’s lives. The number of users around the world is very much increasing with time (+4.5 million internet users). Browsing the internet, every single user is looking for information or trying to solve some problems. E.g., programmers, students, parents, teachers, etc.

One of the primary arguments in favor of the added value of using the internet is its swiftness to access any information or research around the world. Students can browse and look for any potential information that might interest them; they can study any material right at home. Graduated students, for example, can search and apply online for jobs on company recruitment websites; that is, they do not necessarily have to waste time and energy by going and asking every company or institution about the available jobs. The answers are already posted on their official websites. It takes only one click to be informed. Moreover, the internet facilitates social networks to increase development and collaboration. Because of the internet, many students can study and work online on both the national and international levels. For instance, students who are learning: cyber-security, programming, and coding can work on variety of projects remotely with other students who might be from another country, and share their findings on platforms and websites, such as GitHub. Additionally, the internet service allows online payments and digital marketing. Students have the choice to obtain any service, again only by one click, whether the service is free or needs payment; They can opt for it.

There are opposing claims that state that the internet causes more harm than good because students might be manipulated, physically hurt, and confused due to the multiple resources: whether they follow this course path or the other, which can lead them to mix-up. Additionally, opponents may argue that the internet is a kind of destruction for students, especially pupils and kids. Kids, for instance, may waste their time playing online games, watching videos that are not relevant to them, or browsing forbidden websites, which can affect their mental and physical health (e.g., sitting a long time in front of the screen can seriously deteriorate one’s eyes). However, these claims are not solid enough because the duty of the internet is not to watch out for the kids and take care of them, while the real responsible ones for children are mainly their parents, not the web. This is only an excuse for people to move the responsibility on their shoulders and finger it out towards something else, in this case, the internet. Additionally, students who are mature enough should know how to find suitable information and use their critical thinking to evaluate the outcome of searching in order to find the needed ones. As for the protection of the eyes, students can use medical lenses to protect their eyes from UV, X, and EMF rays.

All in all, The debate over whether the web does cause good or harm to students is still controversial and complex. While concern exists, many cases have shown how the internet has made life easier and facilitated things from the very beginning of its discovery; whether they are students or teachers, workers or bosses, children or parents, they can always take advantage of it. What remains questionable is how it is being used. Here comes the responsibility of the person themselves, their parents, society, and the government. To get students learned and educated, they should be involved in the process of the learning journey, which can be achieved by working in groups, studying together, and sharing knowledge, all of which can be achieved via internet. As Franklin Benjamin said, “Tell me and I forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I learn.”

By Bilal IRAOUI

S3 Department of English Studies

Chouaib Doukkali University of El Jadida

“I feel mad. I feel mad because I had no idea that one guy with a gun could ruin my life so hard in six minutes. Ruin so many lives.”

This quote from the movie “The Fallout” exemplifies what harm could a gun do if it falls into the wrong hands, as it captures the pain and agony that survivors and families of victims feel. Over the years, mass shootings and gun violence has become deeply rooted in American culture. In fact, according to the Center of Disease Control (CDC), 321 people are shot a day in the USA, 111 of whom die. This has caused the everlasting debate between those who advocate for gun ownership and those who are against to rise. Both parties are concerned with individuals’ safety, which can only be fulfilled by implementing certain laws.

Proponents of gun ownership believe that it is their given right according to the second amendment, which guarantees the freedom to keep and bear arms. In addition, having a gun around gives them a sense of safety. Indeed, it could come in handy to intimidate or defend themselves against home invaders. Moreover, guns are as useful as kitchen knives to some provided that they use them to hunt.

Opponents, on the other hand, argue that banning ownership would lead to a decrease in gun-related crimes. In fact, studies show that the risk of accidents during spousal arguments increases by 500% with the presence of a gun. They also believe that streets would become safer; statistics stress that the occurrence of mass murders is much lower in countries where citizens are not allowed to own and carry weapons.

It appears that both parties disagree about gun ownership only to agree about ensuring the safety of individuals. Ways differ but the goal is one. To guarantee the achievement of this goal, guns should not be handed to deranged individuals. Therefore, psychological evaluation has to be compulsory for anyone who wants to own a gun. In addition, strict actions must be taken to prevent illegal firearm trafficking, such as mandatory reporting of gun thefts, banning assault-style weapons, and tracing the source of crime guns to eradicate them.

To sum up, the debate is persisting between proponents and opponents of gun ownership. Yet, both sides promote human safety which can be achieved by attacking the problem from its source: illegal firearm trafficking and mentally unstable people. Maybe it is high time to change the human-made amendments in order to prevent further heartbreaks and tragedies.

Wydad Madani : Semester 3, Department of English Studies, Chouaib Doukkali University, El Jadida

Imagine traveling to the future and finding that some countries ceased to exist,
replaced by seawater, and forgotten, several animals went extinct, ecosystems
vanished, and our fellow humans are skinnier than normal.

That could be the case if climate change continues to be prevalent. Climate change has been subject to debate for many years, and it will remain for years to come. Although its consequences are becoming more and more tangible, some still consider it not to be a threat. However, the real case is that scientists have been sounding the alarm that climate change is still the number one threat to humans and all ecosystems.

Climate change is as old as human activity. Yet, we have only come to notice it over the last century. Scientists conducted their research and concluded that earth’s temperature is gradually rising due to the greenhouse effect. As a result, many summits were held in recognition of the issue.

Climate change is a threat based on several visible and plausible negative impacts. Lately, the world has been experiencing severe heatwaves that resulted in droughts and several deaths across the world, from January through August. The most notable heatwave in 2022 is that of China; with scorching temperatures exceeding 40 °C, at least 17 provinces were affected and suffered from water shortages and crop losses. Also, warmer weather is an ideal environment for mosquitos and ticks to breed; these insects being natural carriers of disease will increase the risk of transmitting various dangerous infectious diseases, such as Malaria and Dengue fever. Moreover, climate change is causing sea ice and glaciers to melt affecting wildlife and altering normal ocean circulation. In fact, scientists predict that two-thirds of the polar bear population will go extinct by the year 2050 due to climate change.

On the other hand, some do not label climate change as a threat. They argue that climate change is a normal phenomenon that occurred at certain points in history; the ice age, for example. And, that animals, plants, and eventually humans would adapt according to the natural selection theory. Although these claims have some truth to them, but whenever climate change happens, mass extinctions and serious environmental catastrophes also take place. Not only it endangers the environment but it has also been proven that it takes its toll on mental health. That and many more repercussions qualify climate change as a threat of utter significance.

To sum up, it is hard to deny that climate change is a pressing matter with regard to the events that we have witnessed in recent years; droughts, heatwaves, typhoons, hurricanes, etc. It is not a simple issue that we can turn a blind eye to. Thus, solutions must be put forward and implemented to prevent further consequences. As American physician-scientist, Kari C. Nadeau, said: “This is in our hands to do if we don’t do anything, that would be cataclysmic.”

Wydad Madani

Semester 3, Department of English Studies

Chouaib Doukkali University, El Jadida

It is said that the early bird catches the worm; but does that apply to university students?

As we all know, schools and universities all over the world start generally between 8:30 and 9:00 AM. Throughout our academic journey, all of us had to wake up and get ready at least an hour before 8:30AM for our classes. However, as we get older, our sleeping schedule becomes irregular which results in many complaints coming from university students stating that late classes are far more convenient and beneficial than early morning classes.

A study conducted in 1998 by Dr. Wolfson and Dr. Carskadon says that university students who reported poor grades claimed to be getting 25 fewer minutes of sleep than the students who reported getting higher grades. Another study from the University of Minnesota confirmed that later school start times can have a positive effect on academic performance. Investigators studied two school districts that changed their start times to 8:30AM and 8:40AM. When compared with students attending schools with earlier start times, the students reported getting higher grades. They also had fewer depressing feelings, got more sleep on school nights and had less daytime sleepiness. In addition, a recent study from RAND Europe shows that delaying school start times is cost-effective. Results suggest that starting school later could have a positive impact on the country’s economy.

All of the above mentioned studies confirm the link between later school start times and better grades, higher test scores, improved focus among university students, as well as a positive impact on the country’s economy. That’s especially important because discipline problems may lead to suspension, which is associated with a wide range of negative health and economic outcomes and is a major cause of educational inequity.

However, with all of these advantages that are definitely valid, some drawbacks cannot be ignored. For example, transportation challenges. Later start times will likely mean more buses on the road later in the day, this could create more traffic and increase travel delays. Furthermore, students who have part-time jobs may have scheduling conflicts as a result of this, which can lead to poor attendance and therefore poor grades.

Overall, later start times for universities can be a double edge sword since it improves students’ academic performance but it can create some transportation and work schedule conflicts as well. However, these problems can likely be solved with flexibility and thoughtful planning.

Khaoula Jraif

Semester 3, Department of English Studies

Chouaib Doukkali University, El Jadida

History has proven that we, as human beings, cannot all agree on something.

For every idea, theory, or ideology, there are those who critic it, and those who support it. One of the things that has generated both support and criticism is the use of capital punishment. Opponents argue that the right to life is a basic human right while proponents argue that it is needed to prevent and control crimes. Although these two sides seems to be incongruent, they are both fighting for the dignity of human life. This can be achieved by tackling the issues that lead these capital crimes to occur in the first place.

Proponents of death penalty believe that it is the most effective punishment for capital crimes. From their perspective, fear of such punishment deters people from committing gruesome crimes, especially violent criminals. Besides, they argue that the penalty should match the crime. For instance, in cases of murder, if a person ends a human life, they have lost their right to life, and consequently they should be executed. They also argue that execution brings closure to families. The families of the victims fear that one day the criminal might go out; the death penalty eliminates this prospect.

On the other hand, opponents of death penalty believe that it should be abolished. They believe that it is an extremely cruel punishment. Prisoners on death row endure the uncertainty of waiting, which is psychologically detrimental and tormenting. They also believe that when a convict is executed, there is a possibility that they may be innocent. Judicial systems, even the best in the world, make mistakes. In addition, they argue that nobody should have the right to end a human life, and that killing is killing no matter what.

It seems that both sides are arguing for the sake of one goal: protecting the dignity of human life. Although their point of views differ, the underlying motive is the same. Since they both want to protect human life, they can work together to achieve it. Going back to the reasons that cause capital crimes to occur might be the perfect start. Crimes do not happen out of the blue. One of the leading causes, if not the leading, is poverty. A lot of people resort to criminal activities to escape poverty. Sometimes they feel they have no choice but to engage in illegal activities when they are struggling to provide the basics. Poverty is a hurdle to receive appropriate education, and eventually many end up being unemployed or underpaid. Therefore, implementing programs that help those in need may reduce the number of capital crimes, and eventually the number of executions.

To conclude, death penalty has always been a polarizing issue; for some it is righteous and beneficial, for others cruel and inhuman. Nevertheless, the fight and controversy stem from the desire to preserve the dignity of human life. Achieving the latter can be done if both sides come together and tackle the real issues that lead to capital crimes, particularly poverty and education.

Salim Lahmiti

Semester 3, Department of English Studies

Chouaib Doukkali University-El Jadida