Pro/Con: Jobs create lasting bonds

April 23, 2009 • written by Taylor Trauger, Copy Editor  
Filed under Opinion

        “I’m going to work for the rest of my life and I don’t want to start now.” This is a common attitude for lazy teenagers who do not want to grow up and start earning their own money.

        At Perkins Restaurant and Bakery I have dealt with my fair share of ridiculous customers who don’t tip very well and spilled on myself many times, but I still love it there. I love my job.

        When I get my paycheck or come home with my pockets full of tips, I realize how necessary it is for me to work.

        Not only is the money worth it, but my co-workers are great people to be around. When we grow old and have a real career, co-workers will become important parts of daily lives. We’ll be stuck with them from 8 AM to 5 PM and will hopefully make good connections. Having a part-time job teaches kids how to create these connections with co-workers and make friends outside of school.

        At Perkins I met new people I may have never known otherwise, and I became closer with people I already knew. Making friends helps the shift go faster and makes work more enjoyable. I rarely feel like I’m missing out on an opportunity to hang out with friends by working because I have friends at work.

        Teenagers sometimes worry about work and school taking over their lives, but at a flexible part-time job you can work as much as you are available. When a free Saturday comes, you now have money to pay for whatever movie you might want to see with your friends.

        Working for your own money is a great lesson everybody needs to learn at some point. College might be a culture-shock for kids who are used to their parents handing them undeserving allowances every week on a silver platter. If you plan to pay back your student loans or rent an apartment, you better plan to work for your money.

        High school is a great time to experience the transition into the “real world,” because parents are right there under the same roof to help you out, but you can start practicing independence.

        Kids always say how they don’t want to be treated like kids anymore, but I say that if you want to grow up, get out and get a job.