Teens Balance School Work and Part-time Jobs
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October 16, 2011
By Katie Stepanek
High school has become the ultimate test in time management skills. While juggling homework, extracurriculars, family and friends is a feat in itself, many Hoban students find themselves augmenting this already complicated balancing act with a part-time job. They accept the risks of increased stress and hectic schedules in order to reap the benefits of an increased feeling of independence, consistent opportunities for growth in maturity and an avenue for income.
One reason that students are put off from the idea of part-time work is the lack of free time associated with having a job. A student employee must organize his time efficiently. This often means sacrificing time in the front of the TV in order to complete school work. Junior Dan McKeon works 18 hours per week during the school year and has some guidelines for himself in order to keep his schedule organized.
“I have to study and do extra homework on nights when I don’t work,” Dan said.
He also makes time for family and friends when he knows he is off the clock.
According to guidance counselor David Whitehurst, lack of sleep is another negative aspect of the work world.
“I think employers sometimes take advantage of kids there,” Whitehurst said.
Time previously used for sleeping becomes time for catching up on school work after-hours, especially if the student doesn’t consider his schedule and plan accordingly ahead of time.
All this extra scheduling and planning adds a lot of “work stress” to the preexisting “school stress.” Students also worry about co-workers, customers and bosses.
“Costumers can be awful,” senior Molly Carson said about her 25 hours per week at McDonald’s.
However, guidance counselor Katie Haubert believes that a healthy amount of stress from work is an important part of growing up.
“Students need to get out in the world and working is a good way to do this. It’s an eye-opening experience,” Haubert said.
Employers like to see experienced workers, even if that experience comes from a seemingly inconsequential part-time job. Being exposed to any sort of work setting is beneficial and getting a headstart in high school can put possible employees one step ahead when interviewing for competitive jobs in the future.
Another benefit of working is that a part-time job generates a constant income.
“It’s worked for me for the past year,” junior Hallie Poor said of her 8-12 hours of work per week at the Ellet library.
This hard-earned money can pay for football games, movie tickets, school lunches and the like. “Working students begin to learn how to manage money and they gain an understanding of how much life costs,” Haubert said.
Student employees also have opportunities to meet new people, experience a fun, work atmosphere and get involved in the community.
“I definitely enjoy working,” junior Delaney Roulette said of her job at Pure Delite Cupcakes. The trick is finding work that isn’t a chore.
A part-time job is a huge responsibility that might not be for every student.
“Some kids are ready and organized and part-time work might be an addition that benefits them,” Whitehurst said. “For others, the addition might be overwhelming.”
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