Why do teens choose to get jobs? On top of school work, extracurricular activities, and already so much to balance, some teens still find time to fit a job into their schedule. There are many benefits to having a job but it is also undoubtedly stressful and can be overwhelming for kids.
Jobs can allow students to gain better opportunities and be well set up for future situations.
“I wanted to make some of my own money, but I also thought it would be good for college applications,” says senior Gianna Bonafilia.
Jobs can give kids a sense of independence and pride knowing they are earning something through hard work.
“I really like having the extra money and I don’t always have to rely on parents to pay for me,” says junior Abby Parker.
Students can learn to be smart about money and the value of being financially stable.
“I got a job to save up money for whatever I might need in the future,” says junior Katherine Czerwinski.
Being a dependable worker prepares students for other commitments they will have in the future.
“Having a job teaches me to be the bigger person and always respect others,” says Bonafilia.
“It has taught me the value of being on time and reliable for when others need me,” says Czerwinski.
However, that is not always easy.
“I don’t like waking up early especially on summer days or breaks when it’s tempting to sleep in,” says Bonafilia.
It can be easy to feel left out and many teens have to make social sacrifices for their jobs schedule.
“I don’t like having to drive far to my job because I miss out on time with friends and family,” says Parker.
As teens take on more responsibilities, the pressure of balancing school and work can be demanding.
“It gets overwhelming sometimes with school and other commitments,”says Czerwinski.
For many teens free time can get prioritized over having a job.
“I think it’s because students want to have time to themselves and relax, especially when they already have enough on their plate,” says Bonafilia.
In today’s world it is easy for kids growing up with technology to lack certain traits that are essential when it comes to having a job.
“I think it’s hard because a lot of teens lack attention span due to things like social media,” says Parker.
Having more control over a job can make it seem less daunting and a great way to start initial job experiences.
“I think babysitting is a great job because you get to decide when you work, who you work for, and sometimes dictate how much you get paid,” says Parker.
Teens should look beyond a paycheck when searching for a job and make sure it is something that one can picture themselves enjoying while doing.
“Get any neighborhood job and make sure it aligns with whatever interests you,” says Czerwinski.
Even if a job seems simple or boring, every one serves a purpose that benefits the worker, employers, and customer.
“Get any job you can because it is definitely a great opportunity to prepare yourself for so many different things you will see in the future,” says Bonafilia.
