Flipping burgers, boxing shoes, and serving Fro-Yo are only some of the things you can find the Warriors doing outside of school. An appetite for some extra cash has students searching high and low. It’s no secret that a part-time job comes with a lot of perks, but it also comes with some sacrifices. Before I discuss the cons, let’s first talk about the pros.

Money

The most obvious reason for obtaining a part time job is the paycheck. It’s as simple as it gets: What kid doesn’t want a few extra bucks? Even though most teenagers usually only earn minimum wage, it doesn’t feel like it when you get paid bi-weekly. No matter if you’re putting it to the side for your college fund or copping the new pair of shoes, it always feels good to have some money in your pocket. “I work because I want money and I hate asking my parents for it. I’d rather get it on my own,” said sophomore Kausie Lipson.

Budgeting

Learning to budget time and money, and to use it well, is a skill that many students don’t learn until they’re in college. But, knowing how to handle these responsibilities prepares students for the real world.

Experience

Having a part-time job allows students to experience real-world situations that will help them in their future careers. Working in public, working with a staff, and exposure to different fields are only some of the things that will be gained. On top of that it will feel like a real paying job, well because it is. After all, chores aren’t going to cut it forever, right? “I was tired of washing a million dishes for like ten dollars. What am I going to do with ten dollars? I had to get a job,” said junior Jorri Mosby.

Having a part time job sounds great right? What could be wrong with it? Well, before you jump the gun there are some things about it that aren’t the best.

Increase in Stress

Between balancing the pressures of a part time job, school, homework and a social life, who wouldn’t be stressed? Trying to figure out how you’re going to get to work on time, and the come home to finish up last night’s assignment, is enough to drive anyone mad. I mean, come on, most adults can’t even handle that. “Having a job gets really hard sometimes. You have to find a way to do everything,” said sophomore Mary Drew.

Time Management

With a job right after school, teens usually get home later than usual. This means less time for homework and studying, and also less time to hang with friends. And outside of not having time, sometimes you just don’t feel like it.

Having a part time job isn’t all bad, it can actually be rewarding. If sacrificing some of your spare time is okay with you, then go ahead and give it a try. At least you’ll get some extra cash out of it.