Is it a good idea to get a job while you're in high school?
I am a junior in high school who is unsure if getting a job is a good idea while in school or not? #money #job #high-school
7 answers
Geoffrey Lennon
Geoffrey’s Answer
Hi Sofie,
Great question!
I'm a bit biased (I had my first job in middle school - paperboy - and worked after school during my years in high school), but I'd definitely recommend that you get a job during high school.
I'd recommend it for a few different reasons...
1) Having your own money is fun...you don't need to bug your parents if you want to buy something or you don't need to ask your parents for money. You can also save it and invest it for the future, helping to pay for college or other long-term priorities that you might have.
2) Having an after-school job (or working during the summer between school years) keeps you busy and forces you to stay organized in terms of completing your school work...when you have more time to get something done, it often takes longer to get done. If you have less time, it will probably get done faster!
3) Having an after-school job looks good on a college application. It shows that you are dedicated, well-rounded and that you likely learned a number of important lessons that you don't necessarily learn in the classroom. These experiences / perspectives will make you a valuable member of a college community.
4) Lastly, if you pick the right job, it can be fun!
Hope that helps!
Thanks,
Geoff
Mia’s Answer
Hi Sofie
Working a part-time job could have a positive impact for you. Sofie you are at an age where you can now can handle greater responsibility. A part-time job provides you with an opportunity to explore outside interests as well as earn self-confidence and exerts your independence.
I hope this helps!
Dr. Kelly’s Answer
Will’s Answer
Hi,
I think part-time job would be beneficial for most youth. But of course, please do make sure that you have the proper schedule and your primary responsibilities are taken care of, i.e. education, families and etc.
I think part-time job is beneficial as it introduce you to new (work) environment, learn new responsibilities and new skillsets.
What type of part-time job?
Well, if you can find a part-time job that you have interested in as a career or close to it, that would be a fantastic option. Even if working for a company that you might want to join in close future.
What you gain?
Sometime people think that most part-time job is just for the money. But most youth do not think about how it will benefit them in the long run.
Think about what you will gain:
New skillsets, such as customer service, communication, written, business interaction, responsibilities and many more. These are the skillsets that you are not able to practice in school. You can read about it, but you will learn and polish your skillsets even more when you use it. Meeting people in the industry that you are interested in. Interview/discuss with them on their experience in their current career. What do they have to do, what gets them there and who they need to talk to. Networking. Meeting the right people, they could be your referral in your future job. They could be the key to get into the company or industry that you are interested in.
But the most important thing, recognize your current responsibilities and manage it accordingly. Know your priorities.
Good luck and cheers! :)
WOW! So much information, thank you very very much for your advice Mr. Khoo
Sofie
Thank you Will this is really interesting!
Savera
Thanks, is it hard to balance work and school at the same time? I've been thinking about getting a job, but I feel like I won't have any time for it.
Sage
Thank you for this great advice
Maeve
Thanks for the input!
Andrea
Sage, it's could be tough sometime. You need to find a good balance on both work and school. But the most important thing is to know your priority. Education first..
Will Khoo
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Is it a good idea to get a job while you’re in high school?
Getting a job while in high school can have both positive and negative impacts, so it’s essential to consider various factors before making a decision. Here are some points to consider:
Benefits of Getting a Job in High School:
Financial Independence: Having a job can provide you with your source of income, allowing you to save for college, personal expenses, or future goals.
Work Experience: Working during high school can help you gain valuable work experience, develop important skills such as time management and communication, and build your resume for future opportunities.
Time Management: Balancing work and school responsibilities can teach you valuable time management skills that will be beneficial in the future.
Networking Opportunities: A job can also provide opportunities to network with professionals in your field of interest, potentially opening doors for future career prospects.
Personal Growth: Working can help you become more independent, responsible, and mature as you navigate the challenges of balancing work and school commitments.
Considerations Before Getting a Job:
Academic Performance: It’s crucial to ensure that working does not negatively impact your academic performance or extracurricular activities.
Stress Levels: Juggling work and school commitments can be stressful, so it’s important to assess whether you can manage both effectively without compromising your well-being.
Time for Rest and Relaxation: High school students also need time for rest, relaxation, hobbies, and socializing with friends. Consider whether adding a job to your schedule allows for a healthy balance.
Legal Restrictions: Be aware of any legal restrictions on the number of hours minors are allowed to work during the school week to ensure compliance with labor laws.
Ultimately, the decision to get a job while in high school should be based on your individual circumstances, goals, and priorities. It’s essential to weigh the benefits against potential challenges and ensure that taking on employment aligns with your overall well-being and academic success.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
U.S. Department of Labor (DOL): The DOL provides information on federal labor laws regarding minors’ employment rights and restrictions, offering guidance on permissible work hours for high school students.
National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE): NACE offers insights into the value of part-time jobs during high school in terms of developing transferable skills sought by employers.
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): AAP may provide research-based perspectives on balancing work responsibilities with academic demands for high school students’ overall well-being.
GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
Michele’s Answer
It is also always nice to actually have some kind of work history when you go to get jobs later and apply to colleges etc.
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