What if the key to becoming successful, independent, and capable as a teenager isn’t in the classroom, but behind the register or serving food?
For many teenagers, a part-time job starts as a simple way to make some extra money. Though, part-time jobs can bring along more benefits than just a paycheck. Whether you’re bussing tables, working the register, or making smoothies, part-time jobs teach valuable life skills–like how to manage your money, manage your time, build your work ethic, and communicate with others. Working in customer service, the service industry, or hospitality can be great to list as an extracurricular when applying for college since it can boost your application; it shows your real-world working experience.
“I love my job…it gives me time to myself while making money. I also love meeting new women through my job and helping style them in clothes that make them feel confident!” says 12th grader Grace Dentico. Dentico works as a cashier at a clothing store called the Covet in Rhinebeck.
You can start working as young as 14. By getting your working papers through the guidance office, you are now ready to start applying for jobs (if you’re 16 already, you won’t need papers). You can either look online on the website of the store to apply, or you can go in and ask if they’re hiring. The key is to be confident–don’t be afraid to apply to multiple places, and don’t stop if you get rejected.
“I feel like the paychecks you get are more exciting even if they’re small because it’s your first time experiencing getting your own sums of money,” says 9th grader Ella Winham, who has been working at Brookmeade as a server since the beginning of the school year. “I think that it’s a lot easier to work after school on weekdays because I’ve already started off my day with tasks.” Winham typically works 3-4 days a week, but other part-time jobs can even just be once per week.
For many teens, a part-time job is the first time you experience working entirely for other people. Everything you do is for others, and it can come with a strict set of rules and structure. This may sound stressful, but the experience can be incredibly rewarding. You learn how to talk to customers, communicate with the people you work with, manage your tasks, and so much more.
“I think that having to balance a part-time job as well as school helped me improve my time management. It also helped my sense of responsibility,” says 11th grader Jackson Morton who previously worked as a cook at the Amsterdam in Rhinebeck.
Not every job is amazing, and not every shift is fun, but you will always walk away with a new valuable experience. Even if it’s only for a month or two over the summer, or a few days at the county fair, it can be a great way to make money and try something new.
Being able to buy food during community lunch is also a perk of having a part-time job. According to 12th grader Fiona Murray, “It’s good for things like gas, going out, or food. Especially for community lunch since every junior and senior leaves. It’s annoying to pack lunch, and I can’t really go home.”
Personally, I started working almost immediately after I turned fourteen. My first job was as a busser at Yum Yum Noodle Bar in Red Hook, and I currently work as a cashier/front of house at Buns Burgers in Rhinebeck. I usually work Thursdays, Fridays, and/or Sundays, averaging about 15 hours a week–it can seem like a lot, but it goes by fast. Through working I’ve learned how to manage my own schedule, developed my social skills, time management skills, and most importantly, I’ve learned how to be a part of a team.
The register, the kitchen, or the coffee shop counter may not seem like it, but they could be the place of your newfound success. Your first job may be the first step towards independence, confidence, and skills that will shape your future beyond your teenage years.
