In a busy teen world where some people just don’t have the time for much other than schoolwork and friends, some high schoolers decide that a job is off the table. Too much time, too much effort–there are many reasons someone might wait until after graduation to get a job. Others, however, find themselves with too much free time on their hands, and seek out paid work to fill that time. The extra money and work experience is worth it to some.

   One high schooler looking for a job is Daniel Torres (‘26). He lists many reasons for a job. “Because I want money. I like buying gifts for other people. I could also get out of the house a lot more,” Torres said.

   He says it’s not always fun, though. 

 “You don’t have as much time to hang out with people.” Work takes up free time–a pro to some, a con to others. 

   When speaking to a senior, Adam Rodriguez-Aynat (‘24), gave his own perspective. 

   “It’s too much work,” he said. “That’s too much time and effort into doing things I don’t care for most of the time.” 

   Kendall Beckett (‘27) disagrees with this notion, however. “I do not have a job, but I would like to earn a job,” Beckett said.

   She mentions some of the positive aspects she sees in having a job, such as “work experience and being able to find a good career after high school.” The only problem for her is that “my full attention just wouldn’t be on school anymore,” making it harder for her to learn. This doesn’t deter her from wanting to work, though–she still would recommend that high schoolers get jobs if they “have the skills and need the money.”

   In the end, it’s up to the individual to decide what works best for them. Whether you find yourself with too much time on your hands or not enough, a job in high school might be what you need to pass the time, save up some money, or get valuable experience that will guide you through future jobs.