7 answers
RILEY
Student
Saint Albans City, Vermont
1
Question
Asked
750 views
High School Jobs?
Whats a good job for a high school student?
Login to comment
7 answers
Erika Smith
Consultant
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Erika’s Answer
Hi Riley,
I think this all depends on what your interests and strengths are.
If you're interested in the medical field, there are definitely opportunities to volunteer or shadow doctors. A lot of restaurants also hire high school students. If you like a certain subject in school, you could tutor younger students in your favorite subject. If you love working with kids, you could make some extra money babysitting in your neighborhood. I would find a job that gives you flexible hours so you can focus on school. Don't hesitate to put yourself out there and ask for work around your neighborhood!
I think this all depends on what your interests and strengths are.
If you're interested in the medical field, there are definitely opportunities to volunteer or shadow doctors. A lot of restaurants also hire high school students. If you like a certain subject in school, you could tutor younger students in your favorite subject. If you love working with kids, you could make some extra money babysitting in your neighborhood. I would find a job that gives you flexible hours so you can focus on school. Don't hesitate to put yourself out there and ask for work around your neighborhood!
Steve Reed
Director Enterprise Data and Integration
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Steve’s Answer
Hi Riley,
The most important part of finding a good job (and I mean any job, including a job for a high school student or someone old like me) is to match up what the job is going to give you and what you want. Everyone wants money, but sometimes you might be willing to make a little less money to gain great experience in a field that truly interests you as a possible long term career choice. There are usually pretty safe bets for some steady income by working in the food service industry, but the work can be hard, repetitive and the money can differ from city to city and job to job. Instead of looking at a chain, you may want to seek out locally owned restaurants or other businesses to see if they need help. Very often this kind of work will give you more diverse experiences than just working at a fast-food place where your responsibilities will come out of the manager's guide book.
But if you're very lucky, and quick current money isn't necessarily your number 1 priority, you can look to find a company from an area that you want to eventually work in full-time and see if they would take you on as a paid or even unpaid intern. You can learn a lot from that type of experience, and it may help you make more money in the future, but the obvious drawback is the money (or the lack of it).
They key though is to try to match up your skills and things you want with what the job has. If you hate making food or cleaning up a kitchen, then working in a fast-food place or restaurant is likely not a great fit. If you can't stand dealing with lots of cranky customers, then working the register at McDonalds may not be your thing. If you spend all day fixing things and doing projects, then maybe picking up hours at Home Depot is just the thing!
The last thing is that even if you're just working the job to earn some cash, you will still learn a lot about what it's like dealing with hours and schedules, managers, co-workers, new responsibilities, and what it's like "out there". And when it comes time for you to work full time at something else, you can refer to the experience in future job interviews as evidence that you're willing to do what it takes to succeed, are not afraid of trying new things, and if you do well, show how you were promoted even from your first job in high school.
Good luck!
Steve
Take a look around where you live and look for more out of the way opportunities (like a sign hanging in a window of a local store)
Take some time to think about what you really want to do when you get out of school
Don't settle for something that you truly hate - you won't be at your best and won't get what you want out of it
The most important part of finding a good job (and I mean any job, including a job for a high school student or someone old like me) is to match up what the job is going to give you and what you want. Everyone wants money, but sometimes you might be willing to make a little less money to gain great experience in a field that truly interests you as a possible long term career choice. There are usually pretty safe bets for some steady income by working in the food service industry, but the work can be hard, repetitive and the money can differ from city to city and job to job. Instead of looking at a chain, you may want to seek out locally owned restaurants or other businesses to see if they need help. Very often this kind of work will give you more diverse experiences than just working at a fast-food place where your responsibilities will come out of the manager's guide book.
But if you're very lucky, and quick current money isn't necessarily your number 1 priority, you can look to find a company from an area that you want to eventually work in full-time and see if they would take you on as a paid or even unpaid intern. You can learn a lot from that type of experience, and it may help you make more money in the future, but the obvious drawback is the money (or the lack of it).
They key though is to try to match up your skills and things you want with what the job has. If you hate making food or cleaning up a kitchen, then working in a fast-food place or restaurant is likely not a great fit. If you can't stand dealing with lots of cranky customers, then working the register at McDonalds may not be your thing. If you spend all day fixing things and doing projects, then maybe picking up hours at Home Depot is just the thing!
The last thing is that even if you're just working the job to earn some cash, you will still learn a lot about what it's like dealing with hours and schedules, managers, co-workers, new responsibilities, and what it's like "out there". And when it comes time for you to work full time at something else, you can refer to the experience in future job interviews as evidence that you're willing to do what it takes to succeed, are not afraid of trying new things, and if you do well, show how you were promoted even from your first job in high school.
Good luck!
Steve
Steve recommends the following next steps:
Lee Nettles
5
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Lee’s Answer
I would personally recommend getting a service job in the restaurant industry - a waitress is a great job. Not only does it provide you with valuable skills (e.g., customer service, knowledge of operations, conflict resolution), but also it gives you an idea of what those at restaurants deal with, and how just making their job a bit easier can make their day. We all go to restaurants and work with wait staff, so it helps to build empathy for later in life.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6084
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hey there, Riley!
Just wanted to let you know that having a job while you're still in high school can be a great way to gain some real-world experience, earn a little extra cash, and even pick up some handy skills. Here are a few job options that are popular among high school students:
1. Retail or Fast Food: A lot of high school students get their first taste of work in retail shops or fast-food joints. These part-time jobs are usually pretty flexible with hours, and they can teach you a lot about customer service, teamwork, and managing your time effectively.
2. Tutoring or Babysitting: If you're really good at a certain subject, why not share your knowledge by tutoring younger students? Or if you're great with kids, babysitting could be a good fit. Both of these options are flexible and can help you earn some money while also gaining valuable experience.
3. Internships or Volunteer Work: If there's a particular field you're interested in, you might be able to find an internship or volunteer opportunity. This can give you a sneak peek into potential careers and also looks great on your resume.
Remember, it's important to think about what you're interested in, what you're good at, and how much time you have when you're looking for a job. And don't forget to make sure you can still keep up with your schoolwork!
Here are the top 3 trusted sources for more information:
The Balance Careers
U.S. News & World Report
CareerBuilder
Wishing you all the best and many blessings!
James.
Just wanted to let you know that having a job while you're still in high school can be a great way to gain some real-world experience, earn a little extra cash, and even pick up some handy skills. Here are a few job options that are popular among high school students:
1. Retail or Fast Food: A lot of high school students get their first taste of work in retail shops or fast-food joints. These part-time jobs are usually pretty flexible with hours, and they can teach you a lot about customer service, teamwork, and managing your time effectively.
2. Tutoring or Babysitting: If you're really good at a certain subject, why not share your knowledge by tutoring younger students? Or if you're great with kids, babysitting could be a good fit. Both of these options are flexible and can help you earn some money while also gaining valuable experience.
3. Internships or Volunteer Work: If there's a particular field you're interested in, you might be able to find an internship or volunteer opportunity. This can give you a sneak peek into potential careers and also looks great on your resume.
Remember, it's important to think about what you're interested in, what you're good at, and how much time you have when you're looking for a job. And don't forget to make sure you can still keep up with your schoolwork!
Here are the top 3 trusted sources for more information:
The Balance Careers
U.S. News & World Report
CareerBuilder
Wishing you all the best and many blessings!
James.
Houcine Lakhchach
Career Development Specialist | U.S Department exchange Alumnus | EFL/ESL trainer | Program manager
139
Answers
Kenitra, Gharb-Chrarda-Beni Hssen, Morocco
Updated
Houcine’s Answer
A great job for a high school student is one that offers flexibility around your school schedule and provides opportunities for skill development. Consider positions in retail or customer service, which can enhance your communication and interpersonal skills. Fast-food or food service roles offer part-time hours and can be a good fit for high school students. If you excel in a particular subject, explore tutoring opportunities for fellow students or younger peers. Internships or apprenticeships related to your interests can provide valuable hands-on experience and insights into potential career paths. Additionally, freelancing online based on your skills, such as graphic design or writing, is another option. Ultimately, choose a job that aligns with your interests, allows for a healthy work-school-life balance, and offers opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Brandon Olson
Tax Manager
52
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Brandon’s Answer
Finding the perfect job for a high school student can often be a matter of aligning their skills, passions, and available time. Here's a friendly guide to some possibilities:
Retail roles: Imagine yourself working in a shop as a cashier, sales associate, or stock clerk. This can be a fantastic way to learn about customer service.
Food service: Ever thought about working in a restaurant, cafe, or fast-food joint? Roles like server, cashier, or kitchen helper are popular choices.
Tutoring: If you're a whiz in a certain subject, why not share your knowledge? You could offer tutoring services to fellow students who need a hand.
Internships: Some businesses provide internships or apprenticeships, giving high school students a taste of real-world work in a specific field.
Lifeguard or swim instructor: If you're a strong swimmer, consider a job as a lifeguard or swim instructor at your local pool. It can be a rewarding way to spend your time.
Babysitting or pet sitting: If you love kids or animals, babysitting or pet sitting can be a flexible and often well-paid job for high school students.
Camp counselor: When summer rolls around, being a camp counselor can be a fun way to gain experience in leadership and teamwork.
Freelance work: Depending on your talents, you could check out freelance opportunities. Think graphic design, writing, or managing social media.
Landscaping or yard work: If you have a green thumb, why not offer lawn care services or help with gardening in your neighborhood? It's another great option.
Retail roles: Imagine yourself working in a shop as a cashier, sales associate, or stock clerk. This can be a fantastic way to learn about customer service.
Food service: Ever thought about working in a restaurant, cafe, or fast-food joint? Roles like server, cashier, or kitchen helper are popular choices.
Tutoring: If you're a whiz in a certain subject, why not share your knowledge? You could offer tutoring services to fellow students who need a hand.
Internships: Some businesses provide internships or apprenticeships, giving high school students a taste of real-world work in a specific field.
Lifeguard or swim instructor: If you're a strong swimmer, consider a job as a lifeguard or swim instructor at your local pool. It can be a rewarding way to spend your time.
Babysitting or pet sitting: If you love kids or animals, babysitting or pet sitting can be a flexible and often well-paid job for high school students.
Camp counselor: When summer rolls around, being a camp counselor can be a fun way to gain experience in leadership and teamwork.
Freelance work: Depending on your talents, you could check out freelance opportunities. Think graphic design, writing, or managing social media.
Landscaping or yard work: If you have a green thumb, why not offer lawn care services or help with gardening in your neighborhood? It's another great option.
Myra Rivera
product management
9
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Myra’s Answer
Hey Riley, it's always beneficial to volunteer at a place that aligns with your interests as it can boost your performance in that job or volunteer role. The suggestions provided by James are indeed excellent choices.
Yet, there's another avenue for volunteering you might want to consider - your local library or a small business. Many libraries run SCORE mentoring programs, offering you the chance to pick up valuable small business insights.
Should you struggle to find a volunteer opportunity that matches your interests, don't hesitate to contact the publications you frequently read. You could inquire about potential work opportunities or even propose creating your own content under an LLC.
Remember, even if you're under 18 and can't legally sign contracts yet, you can still start developing content. This will help you build a portfolio that you can later use when applying for jobs.
Yet, there's another avenue for volunteering you might want to consider - your local library or a small business. Many libraries run SCORE mentoring programs, offering you the chance to pick up valuable small business insights.
Should you struggle to find a volunteer opportunity that matches your interests, don't hesitate to contact the publications you frequently read. You could inquire about potential work opportunities or even propose creating your own content under an LLC.
Remember, even if you're under 18 and can't legally sign contracts yet, you can still start developing content. This will help you build a portfolio that you can later use when applying for jobs.