For many students, school could be a job of its own. But for some students, hours of homework and community service are lightwork, which opens up opportunities for even more time on the clock. For these students, working on weekends or after school is a great way to save up for college, a car, a cookout tray, or to help with expenses around the home. 

Most students who have jobs are seniors (according to our survey at least) which makes sense. Many employers won’t hire minors under 15-16 years old, and some require that you have a car depending on where you live and work. However, some underclassmen are able to work for their parents’ businesses, and others limit their work hours to the summer. As far as older students are concerned, juniors may be more concerned with balancing their ridiculous schedules than making some extra dough. But for many seniors, their last year of high school might be their best chance to get some work experience or a jump start on paying for college or a trade school. 

So should you get a job? Well once you figure out the logistics (getting to and from work etc.) You need to decide if it will be worth it for you. Most students say that they like their job, and it has allowed them some financial independence. One student, Alex Warner, sophomore, said that his job at DetailMeNow C’ville “helped (him) buy (his) second car, a Volvo V70.” 

You have to remember to keep a balanced schedule though. Senior Abbey Tackett said, “When I get home from work at 10, I’m tired and I don’t feel like doing any homework. Getting things done before 11:59 pm is a struggle, and sometimes it just doesn’t happen. I have less free time on the weekend.” But work can be a place you enjoy being as well. One senior who works at Splendora’s (pictured below) said that “It’s nice to have a place where I don’t have the option to worry about school or college stress.” 

Your high school work experience can be what you make it. If you decide to look for a job, find one that you will enjoy doing, or at the very least, won’t despise. Stick to your guns about your hours, know your worth, and get that bread!