I remember wanting to have a real job by the time I was a junior in high school.

It was not because I needed money, but because I wanted to feel independent.

This year I started working at Lee’s Burger in Coolidge. After three months of working, I have learned a lot about balancing a real world experience and school at the same time. I have become much better at managing my time instead of wasting time and cramming everything in at 1 a.m.

I think that working as a student is beneficial because there is an opportunity to meet different people, engage in new conversations, and get exposure to working.

Since I am still in high school, my main priority is to fulfill my requirements and credits so that I can lead a greater life after graduation. Most adults in the work environment are aware that school comes first and there is not as much pressure to dedicate all of my time to work.

Luckily for myself, I have a boss that is very understanding of my many extracurriculars and allows me to take off as much time as I need to accommodate my scholarly lifestyle.

Overall, I believe that being able to work while in high school is great preparation for entering the outside world when going off to college or whichever path an individual chooses.

As a shy person, I feel like I have become more vocal and willing to take risks talking to people because I am in customer service. I have seen the change in my confidence as I meet new people almost everyday.

If anyone is interested in getting a job, I would make sure that it fits in your schedule. Look at it more as a life experience rather than just another task to take on. While in high school, I believe that it is important to make education the primary focus and then anything else may follow.

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