Jobs can be overwhelming and, at times, stressful, but students have multiple reasons behind having jobs; bills, going out money, or even just savings. Besides the priorities that come with being employed, life lessons can be learned and there are coworkers who make the time go by quickly.
The food industry can be a heavy job on students, but valuable lessons get taught through working them.
“I’ve learned that I don’t like stupid people,” junior Landon Cooke said. “And how to just go with the flow of things.”
Most sophomores don’t have jobs since many don’t have a driver’s license, or they do not reach the age minimum for most jobs. Those with earlier birthdays have better opportunities for jobs.
“During the cheer season I go to work after tumbling,” sophomore Aubree Jackson said. “I’ve learned how to manage my money”
School-To-Work is a program offered by the school, and doing it takes an hour out of your school day so you can attend work. You earn credit hours while being able to build up your resume.
“I’ve been doing school to work for seven months, and I thought it would be more difficult,” senior Angelina Shaina said. “I’ve learned time management, how to be responsible, and to put others before myself.”
Student athletes have to balance school, practice, and sometimes other extracurricular activities like jobs and clubs.
“It’s tiring because, during the season, I have to go to work the morning after a game,” junior Trevin Gabriel said. “But I’ve learned how to work harder and make better food.”
Jobs can do more than just teach you how to become financially responsible.
“I’ve gotten better at time management,” junior Jared Lamb said. “I work on weekends during the season, and it gets tiring.”
Local businesses are great places to connect with the community and become more involved.
“I’ve been working at Nitsches Meats and Deli for 10 months,” junior Reese Nida said. “I’ve improved my savings and time management. My grades have stayed the same and I have been able to manage it all.”
Student jobs do more than just help them get money. They develop skills that will help them after high school that will prepare them for the future. Whether they are learning to manage time, money, or responsibilities, students are preparing for the real world with jobs.
