Students and others can get carpal tunnel syndrome the same as office workers. You might consider getting a brace to wear whenever you do such repetitive tasks. While a brace doesn't directly impact the thumb, the device is intended to take pressure off the median nerve that can impact the thumb and three inner fingers.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-carpal-tunnel-braces-4169357
https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-carpal-tunnel-braces-4169357
Maybe?